Hugs, holidays...or getting back to the office?
Our latest travel survey asks people what they're most looking forward to once lockdown ends
In our latest survey of 500 UK holidaymakers, we asked people who'd flown from a UK airport in the last two years what they were most looking forward to once lockdown ends. More people said they were looking forward to a holiday than anything else - even dinner out or a hug.
That people are looking forward to a holiday should come as no surprise - locked in during a dreary, grey January, most of us are counting down the days to summer on a beach. 78% of people who flew in 2019 or 2020 confirmed they're planning to fly this year.
More surprising may be that people said they were looking forward to a holiday more than anything else - more than going out to dinner, more than the cinema, more even than a hug.
Most surprising of all was that 3% of respondents said they were most looking forward to getting back to the office. Holiday Extras also asked people what would most affect their decision to go away. Between 45% and 50% of respondents were either waiting for lockdown to end; waiting to receive the vaccine; or waiting for their favourite destination to re-open.
Check out our destination guides
All of our favourite destination video guides in one place
Suggested article:
Top destinations for 2021
Seamus McCauley, Head of Communications at Holiday Extras, said,
"We've been asking people since the start of the Covid crisis when they plan to fly again, and at this point we've surveyed more than 15,000 UK holidaymakers. Last year, a consistent 85% told us they'd be going away in the coming year. In our latest survey that slipped a little bit to 78%, but that's still four-fifths of the 2019 travel market raring to go on holiday - so the demand is clearly there as soon as the holidays and flights are available to book.
As to what people are most looking forward to - no surprises that in the depths of winter lockdown, everyone is most looking ahead to a week or two at the beach. We're expecting this summer to sell out as soon as there's clarity from the government on when people can go - so if you know when you're going, book ahead. As for me, I'm pretty sure my boss will read this so I'm one of the 3% most looking forward to getting back to the office."
Book your holiday extras early.
It pays to book your airport parking, airport hotel or your lounge as soon as you book your flights. Prices usually go up nearer the date you fly, and last year Holiday Extras saved our airport parking customers £100 each on average when they pre-booked their airport parking instead of paying on the day.
Up next:
Looking for more inspiration, information or a handy travel guide? You'll find more on our travel hub.
Suggested article:
The best travel shows to watch on Netflix
We're here to help
For the fastest, smartest, most personal service in travel our team is available by live chat every day of the week from 9am to 5pm.
Simply follow the "help team" link at the top of the page at any time.