Sunwing Research Shows How Far Canadians Will Go to Protect Their Travel Budget

New research reveals 37% of Canadians who typically consider vacationing in the fall/winter would cut back on everyday lifestyle expenses to protect their travel budget, as guests prioritize budget certainty, quality experiences and flexibility when planning their winter escapes.

The research, polling over 1,500 English- and French-Canadians, was conducted by Angus Reid on behalf of Sunwing.

More than half of respondents (57%) reported that knowing the total cost of their vacation upfront would make them more likely to book an all-inclusive package. 

Thirty-six per cent of respondents pointed to better overall value as a factor in choosing an all-inclusive, rather than booking trip elements separately. That number rises to 68% of families who say knowing the total cost upfront would make them more likely to book.

 When it comes to what Canadians consider the best value for their vacation dollars, half of respondents say it means paying a price that feels fair for the quality and experience they receive. By comparison, just 5% define value as securing the absolute lowest price if it means sacrificing quality or convenience. 

Travel is very important to Canadians: 37% say they would cut back on everyday expenses such as dining out, entertainment or holiday gifts to protect their fall or winter travel budget, while nearly one in four Canadians aged 18 to 34 would be willing to delay a major purchase.

“Canadians are navigating more pressures in their everyday lives, making the opportunity to truly switch off, relax and recharge even more important,” said Marek Andryszak, President of Sunwing Vacations Group. 

“That sense of ease should extend to their vacation budget as well. With an all-inclusive package, guests can understand the cost of their getaway upfront, giving them greater budget certainty and one less thing to think about while they’re away. At Sunwing Vacations, we bring those two needs together by making it easier for Canadians to plan a quality getaway where they can focus less on the details and more on enjoying their time away.”

Additional survey insights:

• Respondents travelling with friends or a partner are significantly more likely to say they intend to book their fall or winter vacation earlier than usual compared to solo travellers, suggesting that planning ahead is becoming increasingly important for groups.
• Among potential fall and winter guests, 26% had planned or would have considered travelling to Cuba. If Cuba remains unavailable, 71% of those guests say they would choose another destination rather than delay or cancel their vacation.
• Mexico tops the list of alternative destinations being considered, followed by the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica.
• Rest and relaxation remain a priority, with 57% of respondents saying it is the primary focus of their getaway.
• Forty-seven per cent) say escaping the cold weather is the primary focus of their winter vacation.

Guests can also make their vacation spend go further with WestJet Rewards. Members can now earn and redeem WestJet points on eligible Sunwing Vacations packages.