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4 December, 2020

New research shows how Aussies’ travel behaviours have changed since COVID-19

Preparing for travel in new normal. Man packing passport, face masks and hand sanitizer. Themes personal protection and flight rules during coronavirus pandemic.

By Alexandra Coulton

New research has revealed that 90 per cent of Aussies have changed the way they travel because of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Which isn’t surprising, given that COVID-19 has changed just about everything for a lot of people.

Research company UserTesting looked into what Aussies have done differently in regards to their travel plans since the “new normal” set in.

Previously important factors like location, method of travel, and accommodation preference have lost their spot to trips with safety now at the forefront.

Surveyed travellers said they expect that their holiday destination should follow proper sanitisation protocols. For example, the hotel/homestay staff should wear masks and maintain safe distancing every day, as travellers would be willing to spend their time and money in a safe environment.

However, one factor has remained steadfast, if not more important: price. Job uncertainty has made the majority (80 per cent) of Australian travellers think travel cost is one of the important factors.

According to the research, travellers are looking for holiday travel deals and special offers.

Due to changing travel rules and restrictions in Australia, booking times have also changed, with those that may have traditionally booked their holiday travel three to four months in advance now waiting until one to two months before booking holidays.

Domestic travel has also emerged victorious, with many of those surveyed who typically plan international travel during the holiday season in a pre-pandemic world now opting for a domestic trip.

In fact, 90 per cent of Aussies said they would opt for domestic travel as it would be a safer and easier decision.

To minimise exposure to others on their local jaunts, 70 per cent of Aussies said they preferred to travel by car to their holiday destinations, while 30 per cent feel travel by air is also safe with the required precautions.

Half of Aussies also said they would opt for Airbnb- or Vrbo-type accommodation. Respondents noted that this option was chosen due to the limited availability of traditional hotel accommodation.

With a majority of Australians vacationing domestically, hotels are at a premium and rooms are hard to find. The Airbnb/Vrbo options also made some feel like it could be a safer option versus hotel accommodations where they would be in closer proximity to strangers, according to the study.

Featured image source: iStock/Chalabala

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