UK Travellers Wait to See How Well Travel Traffic Light System Works Before Booking

Holidaymakers plan to wait and see how international travel will work over the next few months before booking a trip, according to new research by travel insurance provider Holidaysafe.

The research*, collected the same day as the government unveiled its “green list” of ‘safe’ countries for travel, found that although keen on a holiday, almost a third of UK travellers are still uncertain about booking a holiday right now.

They would rather wait to see how the government’s new traffic light system plays out before committing to a trip abroad.

Respondents’ main reasons for delaying their next trip were: “waiting for the EU to get vaccinations stabilised”; “waiting until they had personally received both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine”; and “not wanting to face isolating upon their return”.

Findings from the survey also revealed that 49% of all respondents plan on booking their next holiday through a travel agent or tour operator.

The results come as no surprise given the last-minute removal of countries on the travel corridor list last year. This led to struggles for some holidaymakers when trying to recover their money from airlines and independent accommodation providers.

Booking with a travel agent gives holidaymakers extra protection from cancellations by accommodation and travel providers.

Europe is still the top choice for 62% of those taking part in the survey with Spain by far the most popular destination.

Sarah Page, brand manager at Holidaysafe, said: “Our research clearly highlights that Brits are desperate to enjoy a holiday abroad, but are still a little apprehensive when it comes to booking.

“More Brits than ever before are planning to travel with a tour operator due to the financial security that comes with an ABTA or ATOL protected package holiday.

“But holidaymakers must not forget just how important travel insurance is, as not only does a good travel insurance policy protect you while you’re away, but it also offers reassurance that should anything happen before you go, you’re protected.”