Kiwis will continue to travel in big numbers despite the cost-of-living squeeze, a survey of 1100 people shows.
However, while more than a third of those polled say tough times haven’t impacted planned overseas travel, others have adapted to make their trips more affordable.
The Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) research aimed at travel agents, airlines and consumers, shows 39% are saving for more important trips and 29% are travelling closer to home. When planning travel, 60% avoid high season, 40% choose low-cost airlines and 38% opt for cheaper dining or entertainment.
. . . US Loses Appeal
A significant portion are actively rethinking plans to visit the US, shows the findings.
“Our research shows that 74% of travellers who are avoiding certain destinations, now place the United States at the top of their ‘less likely to visit’ list. They state that politics is the main deterrent, with 83% citing it as the deciding factor, followed by border entry challenges and safety concerns,” says SCTI chief customer officer Jess Strange.
Of destinations they are now less likely to visit, 43% said in the sur vey done in Dec—and before the latest strike on Iran—that they are less likely to visit the Middle East. Mexico/Central America, Africa, China, Indonesia and India all sit between 17% to 19%.
. . . Bucket Lists
Kiwis remain enthusiastic about big experiences that deliver life long memories. Top travel dreams include African safaris, the Inca Trail and Disneyland/Disneyworld, despite a reluctance to travel to the US. SCTI points out there are other Disney locations in Europe, Hong Kong and Japan.
Gen Z shows higher interest in travelling for special events (26%) and Baby Boomers and the Silent Generation (born between 1928 and 1945) remain the most cruise-enthusiastic, at 18% and 25%, respectively.
A holiday with family is the number one priority for 54% of respondents—well ahead of beach breaks (34%).
