Concerns over exchange rates and Brexit have inspired almost half of travellers to trust in package holidays thanks to ‘locked in’ pricing and industry protection, a new poll reveals.
Consumers want to book all travel elements in one place, including rail or bus travel, meals and excursions, in addition to flights and accommodation.
However, just 6% of those surveyed book in-store via a travel agent, with 63% using PCs, laptops, smart phones or tablet devices
Domestic packages emerged as the most popular at 69%, followed by short foreign trips ranging from four to seven nights 58%, according to the online YouGov survey of more than 2,000 people conducted for Super Break, LateRooms.com and Malvern Travel Technology owner Malvern Group.
The research found that 47% have either booked or plan to book a package holiday in 2019 based on the advantage of financial protection and the ease of booking all components in one place due to worries over exchange rates and Brexit.
But consumers want a broader choice of options and experiences under one booking facility.
While two thirds of still opt for the traditional travel bundle of accommodation and flights, more than a third (36%) would like to see bus travel included, closely followed by train connections (32%).
Almost one in five (19%) also want restaurants included; 17% would like museums and attractions and 10% theatre or show tickets to be part of their booking bundle.
Company executive chairman Hugo Kimber said: “This new survey supports our own research that customers are looking for more choice and in one place.
“Designing packages that meet the call for more variety and options is at the forefront of Malvern Travel Technology. It’s largely why and how our trip planning platform was developed.
“We are delighted the platform is being showcased and embraced by major travel industry brands. Trusted household names have recognised the innovative approach of this white label provision which offers suppliers expansion and customers even more flexibility, choice and value.”