Holidaymakers are divided about whether to head overseas again in 2022, as the risks of Covid-19 are still a major concern, according to a poll.
Almost half (46%) of those quizzed for a GoCompare Travel Insurance survey said they were not willing to leave the UK, with the pandemic being the main reason for their reluctance to head overseas.
Of those who aren’t planning to holiday abroad, 62% named Covid-19 risks as the reason.
The main concern with Covid is the possibility of being stuck abroad amid rapid regulatory changes, closely followed by the prospect of having to cancel their trip, with catching the virus being the third most cited reason.
The poll was carried out among 3,000 consumers at the start of December – before the current wave of the Omicron variant.
The survey found just 15% of respondents said they were going to book their break in January.
More than half (55%) planned to go to Europe, compared to just 7% looking to visit North America – the second most popular continent.
Asia came third on the list as the destination of choice for 4% of respondents.
A quarter of respondents said they’re looking to book a beach break – more than any other holiday type; 14% are planning a staycation; and 12% are considering a city break.
Despite the volatility surrounding travel restrictions, 40% of respondents said that they would not be taking out travel insurance for their holiday this year.
Richard Jones, travel insurance expert at GoCompare, said: “Unfortunately, travel companies shouldn’t expect the industry to bounce back to full capacity in 2022. There is still a clear divide in public opinion about whether they plan to go abroad this year.
“What was most surprising though, was that 40% of respondents told us that they weren’t planning to take out travel insurance for their break.
“While many insurers are now providing cover for Covid-19 related risks, be sure to check each policy carefully for your individual needs.”
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