Spending more, booking earlier, fears of lost luggage and delayed revenge travel are some insights revealed by Sabre Corporation’s 2024 Global Travel Study.
The 25-question survey was completed by 700 global Sabre team members of various age groups.
Increased confidence
It indicates that people are less concerned about the type of travel uncertainty experienced during the pandemic, resulting in the planning of multiple long-term trips. Of respondents, 34,4% are planning two trips for 2024.
Advance booking
There is also an increase in advance leisure air ticket purchases, with 50% of people travelling for leisure tending to buy flight tickets at least three months in advance. However, business trip air tickets are bought just two to four weeks before departure.
More spending
Sabre travellers are willing to spend the same amount or more than they did on travel in 2023, with 48% saying the same as 2023, and 40,7% saying more. According to the survey, Gen-Z is more willing to spend slightly more than in 2023.
Travel companions
The demand for trips for couples has taken over family trips this year. Travel with friends came in second place, and family trips with children under 12 came third among the most trips by demand.
Travel preferences and priorities
Respondents are focused on practicality as they consider activities, cost and sustainability when making travel decisions. Respondents said they would pay up to 5% more for a sustainable travel option and up to 15% more for carbon offsetting options.
Seat selection and luggage
Regarding ancillaries, the survey indicated that as business travellers travel light, checked-in luggage was less important to them. Seat selection, however, was ranked the most important for both business and leisure travellers.
Insurance
North American travellers are more likely to purchase insurance for flight changes and cancellations rather than medical, whereas the rest of the world prioritises medical insurance during travelling.
In terms of generational preferences, Gen-Z stands out as the most likely to buy lost or stolen baggage insurance.
