Travel Weekly polled experts across the industry to find out which travel trends will gather pace as we look ahead to a better, brighter 2021:
Short Haul Favourites
Even with a vaccine rollout heralding a return to a little more normality, travellers’ confidence will take time to rebuild, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that many are sticking to old-favourite destinations they know and love for their first trip post-pandemic.
Villa Holidays
Offering both space and seclusion, villas have rocketed in popularity this year, as travellers eschew the company of others in favour of a place they can call their own. That looks set to continue in 2021 too, as multigenerational families or groups of friends look for somewhere to reconnect with loved ones they haven’t seen for far too long.
Self-Drive Breaks
The desire for self-contained styles of travel has increased as travellers look to minimise contact with others.
Late Bookings
With uncertainty over travel corridors, local lockdowns and entry requirements on arrival, many customers are booking as close to their departure date as possible, reluctant to commit their cash until the last minute in case things change – a trend likely to continue into early 2021, at least.
Outdoor Adventures
With little to do during lockdown except take long walks through the woods or cycle rides through the countryside, many of us are embracing a more active, outdoor lifestyle, and that’s showing through in our holiday preferences as well.
Domestic Demand
Holidaymakers who would normally flock to far-flung destinations have rediscovered the UK’s rolling countryside, coastal towns or quirky hotels.
Travel by Train
Rail-based breaks were on the rise long before Covid-19 came into the picture, between eco-aware clients seeking an alternative to flying, independent travellers wanting a hassle free way to get around, and others keen to experience some of the world’s most scenic or luxurious journeys.
Wildlife and Sustainability
The desire to travel more responsibly and minimise our environmental impact has been gradually gathering pace for years, but lockdown – which saw wildlife and the environment flourish – acted as a catalyst for that change, with operators reporting that sustainability is becoming a bigger factor in consumers’ decision making.
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