VIDEO: Travelers fear catching virus, losing money amid COVID pandemic

Consumers in the United States, the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany and Italy are seeking detailed information about health protocols and looking for booking options that provide flexibility and refunds, but their main concern about travel is the risk of catching COVID-19.

To evaluate travelers’ attitudes, expectations and behaviors in the post-COVID era, Phocuswright surveyed more than 8,000 adults in the U.S., U.K., Spain, France, Germany and Italy in July for its “Path to Recovery” series.

Between 65% and 78% of respondents, depending on country, say they are worried they may contract COVID-19 during travel or while in a destination.

But while that concern is held by some consumers in all countries, it seems to be having the most impact on travelers in the U.S.: Before the pandemic, Phocuswright says the U.S. and European online population traveled for leisure at similar rates. Since the onset of COVID-19, U.S. respondents indicate they are much less likely to plan a leisure trip – 61% of U.S. respondents say they do not intend to travel by July 2021, while in Europe that figure ranges from 24% to 40%.

And for those planning to travel by July 2021, a decrease in infection rates is more important than a vaccine, while those who are not planning to travel by that time say the availability of a vaccine is most important. 

Separate from concerns about the coronavirus, respondents indicate a heightened need for information about hygiene protocols being used by airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other suppliers, as well as about refund, cancellation and rebooking policies. 

In fact, the risk of losing money from cancellation or postponement of a trip is the primary concern for 35% to 52% of travelers surveyed.

COVID precautions

When asked what safety measures they consider essential, respondents from all of the countries surveyed chose face masks for both staff and fellow travelers as one of their top choices across the categories of transport, lodging, attractions/activities and cruise.

Travelers also want heavy sanitization of high-touch surfaces and equipment, distancing and reduced capacity. And a majority of travelers say travel companies should provide face coverings, wipes or hand sanitizer.

Further down the list of essential solutions is the use of contactless technology for ticketing or check-in. Respondents consider contactless technology most essential in the cruise sector, which is also the category where they most want to see mandatory COVID tests.

At the Phocuswright Europe 2020 event in September, Phocuswright research analyst Madeline List shared the results of the survey from European consumers.