Travel Intent Remains High Despite Air Chaos, Inflation

Despite a summer of travel chaos in the United States and Europe, travel intent among Americans remains high. Of 2,900 American surveyed in June and July, two-thirds said nothing would stop them from booking travel. The survey, by travel insurance provider World Nomads, also found that 44% plan to take at least one trip in the next year, 41% plan to take two to three trips, and 10% plan to take four to five trips.

“Despite the economic headwinds and seemingly endless turbulence on the travel front, more than ever Americans are prioritizing vacations as a worthwhile expanse and a way to escape it all,” said Christina Tunnah, general manager of marketing and brands for World Nomads. “People are keen to get back out and explore the world. Things might not always go according to plan, but it’s not putting people off making those plans.”

Speaking of things not always going to plan, World Nomads also revealed that flight delay and cancellations claims are up 30% over the past three months. Baggage delay claims soared a record 122% in the same time period (compared to the same period prior to the pandemic in 2019).

People are also less worried about cost-of-living increases. Just 6% said they worried these increases would impact their travel budgets and 5% said they could not afford to travel at all. This is significantly lower than in March, when 21% said they cannot afford to travel.

As to where people are looking to go, new destinations are high on the list of priorities for Americans with 70% saying they plan to travel to a new destination. The destinations at the top of their list? Mostly international with Mexico, Italy and Spain leading the pack, followed by Iceland and Peru.

Survey respondents were divided on what they want to do while on vacation. Some 36% said they’re hoping to relax and disconnect from work; 20% want to participate in outdoor adventures; and 18% are looking for cultural immersion.