Package holidays make a comeback
Package holidays are making a resurgence, according to research conducted on behalf of ABTA.
More than half (53%) of British holidaymakers took a package in the last year, an increase of 6% on 2015 and a rise of more than 10% on 2011.
The research, carried out just weeks after the collapse of Lowcost Travel Group, found financial protection has grown significantly as a reason for booking a package, almost doubling from 16% in 2015 to 29% this year.
The increase was particularly pronounced among 18-24 year olds, where the figure jumped from 16% in 2015 to 37% this year.
But the most popular reason for choosing a package holiday is ‘Having everything taken care of’, selected by 73% of consumers, while ;ast year’s top reason, ‘Best value option for price’, has slipped to second place at 59%.
The research also found the growth in package holidays is being driven by the youngest and oldest age groups.
Almost two thirds (63%) of people aged over 65 took a package holiday last year, compared to 47% in 2015.
Over half (55%) of 18-24 year olds took a package holiday abroad in the last 12 months, compared to 46% in 2015.
"This suggests a new generation is discovering the benefits of the package," said ABTA’s report.
"In a year of high profile international terrorist incidents, and change and uncertainties on the UK political stage, it appears people are seeking the support and protection offered by a package holiday. "
ABTA chief executive Mark Tanzer added: "In the current climate, it is not surprising to see people responding to this and looking for the added support, security and convenience of a package holiday."
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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