SAN DIEGO – May 28, 2024 – Generali Global Assistance (“GGA”) today announced the findings from U.S. respondents to the 2024 Holiday Barometer – the annual poll sponsored by its parent company, Europ Assistance, and conducted by the consumer research firm Ipsos . The survey was conducted between March 27 and April 22, 2024, in 21 countries.
Based on the survey of 1000 residents of each country, summer travel is close to returning to pre-pandemic levels. Of the U.S. travelers surveyed, 57% say they intend to travel this summer. Interestingly summer travelers are waiting longer to book their travel, likely in an attempt to keep their summer travel options open, with only 39% planning to travel saying they’ve booked their trips.
Chris Carnicelli, CEO of Generali Global Assistance, commented on the findings, “Every year this survey gives us a window into the minds of Americans as they make their summer travel decisions. The rise of ‘slow travel’ is an interesting trend as people are wanting more authentic experiences over the traditional tourism hot spots. There are plenty of places throughout the United States where Americans can take full advantage of a slower pace of travel. While those surveyed said they preferred to travel within the US, it’s important to remember that Americans can experience almost any type of vacation they desire from sunbathing on pristine beaches to taking a challenging climb up a mountain or cooking classes in a major metropolis – all without needing their passport.”
Upcoming Travel Plans
The 2024 edition of the Holiday Barometer from Europ Assistance and Ipsos was conducted in 21 countries including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Italy, France, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Portugal, Belgium, Poland, Czech Republic, Malaysia, Hong Kong, India, Singapore, Japan, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Australia. In each country, 1,000 consumers aged 18 years and older took part in an online questionnaire. The survey was conducted between March 27 and April 22 and investigated consumer holiday plans and travel preferences.