The research revealed a strong audience of older travellers looking to see the world and holiday further afield with people aged 35-44 most likely to travel long-haul (54%) and almost half of those holidaymakers aged between 45-54 jetting off to long-haul destinations. US the most popular long-haul holiday destination this year.
LONDON – WEX Inc., a leading provider of corporate payment solutions, conducted a survey of British holidaymakers revealing almost half are booking a long-haul holiday this year with the US the most popular destination.
The research conducted by WEX, surveyed 1,000 holidaymakers to reveal that 46% will be enjoying a far flung holiday this year, with the US hitting top spot (20%) followed by Australia (11%). One in 10 will be jetting off to the Caribbean, with India and Thailand completing the top five most popular long haul destinations for 2016.
The research, which is taken from WEX’s new travel industry whitepaper entitled “Confidence Is The Key To Success In The Travel Industry”, also highlights long-haul destinations are not just for student gap year travel.
The research revealed a strong audience of older travellers looking to see the world and holiday further afield with people aged 35-44 most likely to travel long-haul (54%) and almost half of those holidaymakers aged between 45-54 jetting off to long-haul destinations. The percentage of over 55s heading further afield than Europe this year is 41%.
While long-haul holidays are on the rise, short-haul travel remains the most popular amongst British travellers with almost three quarters (71%) planning at least one holiday closer to home in the next 12 months.
Spain is by far the most popular destination with 44% heading to its shores, followed by France (18%), Greece (17%), Italy (15%) and Portugal (8%).
The research also reveals an increase in travel spend this year with British holidaymakers set to splash on average £2,924 on their holidays during the next 12 months with eight of 10 saying they will book all of their travel elements online.
More than half of those booking online say it gives them better access to deals and lower prices.
Ian Johnson, Commercial Director Europe, Virtual Payments, at WEX said: “British holidaymakers are becoming more and more adventurous with their travels and are looking to experience new destinations outside of Europe. However, our research shows that whilst many people will be jetting off to long-haul destinations this year, Spain remains the most popular hot spot for British travellers.”
Johnson continues: “Our research also shows that British consumers continue their love affair with travelling and with an average UK salary currently at £26,700*, they are set to spend just over 10% on holidays.”
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
