Top travel destinations revealed, tips on how to stay safe post-Covid

YouGov research, which was commissioned by Southern Cross Travel Insurance in March, involved a survey of more than 1000 adults and revealed the appetite for travel was strong following the easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

But the findings indicate post-pandemic fears are shaping travel decisions, including destinations and accommodation choices, holiday activities and travel insurance.

Southern Cross Travel Insurance chief executive Jo McCauley said the pandemic had impacted people’s method of planning holidays.

“It has made us more aware now, than ever, of the things that could potentially go wrong during our travels and the importance in planning for these unforeseen circumstances as much as we can,” she said.

“Prior to the pandemic, travel insurance used to be something some of our customers would purchase at the last minute with limited understanding about what they were and weren’t covered.

“We’re now finding Australian travellers are much more engaged with their travel insurance policy, and as a result, we’re experiencing a surge in inquiries into our contact centre.

“Customers (are) asking us a lot more detailed and hypothetical questions about what would, and wouldn’t, be covered in certain situations.”

Key findings from the research:

● 92 per cent of Australians are planning to travel within Australia or overseas in the next two years;

● 75 per cent of those travellers are more concerned about health and safety;

● 89 per cent say a destination’s Covid-19 record will impact their decision to travel there;

● 80 per cent consider travel insurance a high priority for international travel, while 65 per cent consider domestic travel insurance a high priority; and

● 36 per cent of people aged 18 to 24 do not consider travel insurance a high priority for international travel.

The research revealed drawn-out Covid-19 restrictions had influenced the type of holiday people wanted, with nature and getting away from big cities becoming a focus.

Survey results also showed hostel-style accommodation was less appealing, with more travellers now considering overall cleanliness and Covid-safe practices when choosing accommodation.

More people are also looking at cancellation policies.

The research also exposed generational differences, with adults aged 18 to 24 displaying a more relaxed approach to travel than older people.

“What is slightly concerning is that the data does indicate that this age group may not be taking the same precautions as older generations when planning a holiday, therefore leaving them more exposed to increased risk of harm or costly mistakes here and overseas,” Ms McCauley said.

“Regardless of age and health, we always recommend that travellers take out travel insurance.

“You just never know what might happen, and it’s better to be…