Longer trips of more than 10 nights are increasingly in demand post-COVID-19, according to a poll by GlobalData. With accidental savers on the rise and working from home making longer trips a possibility, lengthier holidays look set to boom post-pandemic.
Opting for an extended trip has become increasingly inviting. A live GlobalData poll revealed that more than one in four (26%) respondents now prefer to take a leisure trip of 10-plus nights—the second-most popular length of trip behind stays of between four and six nights (28%).
“Many travelers are desperate to escape their lockdown locations and need a change of scenery,” said Gus Gardner, associate travel and tourism analyst, GlobalData. “A lengthier trip gives the optimal amount of time to switch off and reset, which is likely to be driving the increase in demand. Furthermore, GlobalData analysis showed that in 2019, the average trip length was 4.45 days for domestic and 9.22 days for international trips, revealing demand for longer stays has risen considerably since the pandemic began.”
Some consumers have experienced a strain on their finances, while others have become accidental savers. With less opportunity for recreational spending and reduced expenditure on commuting, some have saved considerable sums. These inflated funds may have contributed to the increased desire for longer stays.
Gardner adds, “Travelers who have seen a considerable increase in savings are more likely to splash out on longer stays. Adding an additional night onto a trip generally results in the average cost per night decreasing, meaning the increased cost of a longer stay is minimal. Therefore, those with higher travel budgets will easily be swayed by the prospect of a longer holiday. The pandemic has fueled the desire to travel and make-up for lost time—longer stays are a great way to do this.”
Remote working could potentially change the way we travel, and the possibility to work anywhere could improve the attractiveness of an extended holiday.
“The pandemic has accelerated the work-from-home model, and the tourism industry could benefit,” he said. “Those who are working from home, especially independent remote workers on a higher salary, no longer require a fixed location and only need somewhere quiet with internet. This new working model, which seems set to stay for some time, could further increase the desire to blend a traditional holiday with a ‘workcation.’ For those seeking a different location, they may look to book a longer holiday, utilizing some annual leave, whilst working remotely for the remaining days to maximize trip length. This new type of traveler could benefit accommodation sharing providers who can offer a home away from home.”
