Richmond, Virginia, May 29, 2024 – A new survey from Allianz Partners USA found a majority of customers will take summer vacations domestically, favoring family getaways, travel by air and leisurely itineraries.
The survey*, which reviewed summer travel plans and purchasing behavior of almost 5,000 customers of the travel insurance and assistance company, revealed that 65% of travelers will vacation within the continental U.S., while Europe (17%) as well as Mexico, the Caribbean and Hawaii (10%) will draw those looking for a summer escape.
Whether headed near or far, it’s shaping up to be a summer of quality time with loved ones, with 42% of respondents citing family travel as the primary theme of their travels this summer. Two in 10 (20%) will trek on a solo trip, while 15% are taking a getaway with friends and 14% are planning romance travel a deux. There is also a significant number of customers putting leisure at the forefront of their travels (87%), with only 3% traveling for business and 10% traveling for a combination of the two.
Flights are the primary mode of transportation for summer travel (56%) while taking to the road in a personal vehicle (11%) or rental car (4%) will continue to carry on as a summertime tradition. Taking to the water, 7% will travel via river boat, expedition or cruise ship and 3% will ride by train or bus to their travel destination. Two in 10 (19%) will use a combination of these modes.
Travelers are checking in at hotels and resorts (40%) or staying with family and friends (23%), with some opting to stay in a short-term rental (7%) or going to a personal vacation property (4%). Cruising, or taking a river boat or expedition ship comprises 9% of travelers’ lodging plans, and 19% will use a combination of lodging options for their summer vacations.
The world’s biggest artists are returning to stages around the globe following years of travel restrictions, and travelers are making sure they’re a part of the fun. Customers claimed they plan to attend a theatre or show (34%), followed by a concert or music festival (22%) when mapping out their dream itineraries this summer. Other top, must-do activities include visiting a theme or water park (17%), a health focused retreat or event (15%), sporting event (15%), wedding (14%) and conference (13%) for business-focused travelers.
Travel issues and delays are also top of mind for Allianz Partners customers, with 31% citing them as a primary concern for summer travel, followed by getting sick or injured before the trip (12%) and a medical emergency during the trip (12%). Rising food and entertainment prices (6%), safety at travelers’ destination (5%), high fuel prices (3%) and testing positive for COVID-19 before the trip (2%) are also weighing on travelers’ minds this season.
Having summer travel concerns has also translated into customers prioritizing the importance of travel insurance, with 78% of Allianz Partners’ travel insurance customers stating they are likely to purchase trip protection again for future trips.
“It’s heartwarming to see travelers so eager to reconnect with loved ones this summer, while making time for the rest and relaxation so many Americans desperately need,” said Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA. "It’s also refreshing to see a majority of our customers placing importance on travel protection, for not only their current summer plans, but for future trips as well. Knowing you can be protected from covered summer travel delays and issues can make reconnecting this summer that much sweeter.”
Allianz Partners offers travel insurance through most major U.S. airlines, leading travel agents, online travel agencies, hotel companies, cruise lines and directly to consumers. For more information on Allianz Partners and available travel policies, please visit http://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/.
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*Methodology: This press release highlights results from an Allianz Partners survey of 4,854 customers who purchased a policy through a travel supplier partner, travel advisor, or directly from Allianz Partners USA between January – April 2024 for travel between Memorial Day and Labor Day 2024. 81% of respondents are age 55 or over, and 11% are between 45 – 54. The survey ran from April 26, 2024 - May 7, 2024, and asked questions about purchasing behavior and summer travel plans. A trip was defined as at least two nights away at a destination 100 miles or more from home.
Press contact
FINN Partners
Robin Magrisi / Robin.Magrisi@finnpartners.com
Megan Derks / Megan.Derks@finnpartners.com