Sastaticket.pk, one of Pakistan’s leading online travel agencies, recently conducted a survey amongst users to study and record insights on travel patterns in Pakistan during the times of the coronavirus pandemic.
The survey had a sample size of 963 people, aged between 31 to 40 years.
Key findings
The comprehensive survey studied patterns of people\’s travel decisions, their preferred destinations, means of travel that make them feel safe during these times, and their preferences of posting updates on social media.
Here are some of key findings:
86% Pakistanis want to relax and spend quality time with family during the pandemic
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In addition to its staggering effect on physical well-being and mortality, the pandemic has also taken an unprecedented toll on people\’s mental health.
52% respondents planned on travelling as soon as the winter holidays began, and a whopping 86% shared that they wanted to travel to relax and recover, and spend some quality time with families away from home.
27% of the respondents said they are keen on waiting for Covid-19 cases to decline before they step out of their cities for a vacation.
Air travel is the preferred means of transportation for 57% of travelers
The survey recorded that 47% of respondents have been looking for international travel destinations with easy visa access.
More than half (57%) preferred air travel, with private cars next in line in preferred means of transportation.
Interestingly, when asked if they would be comfortable in paying extra to book a middle seat on flight for safety, 22% said yes, while 34% remained unsure.
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Not only are online travel bookings convenient, they also ensure zero human contact, which is ideal with the contagious virus on loose.
Therefore, an overwhelming number of respondents, close to 78%, showed an inclination towards booking trips via online travel portals and booking platforms.
Budget and health are primary concerns for most
The survey shows that 44% respondents preferred opting for medical or travel insurance while traveling, indicating financial constraints and healthy safety make up their most primal concerns.
Almost half of the respondents shared they would rather have their vacation last for a couple of weeks.
Inquiries about vacation budgets revealed 25% of the respondents had a budget of Rs50,000 to Rs100,000, while 23% had Rs100,000 to Rs200,000 available for travel.
65% respondents are traveling to places declared safe and compliant of coronavirus SOPs
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To decide their next travel destination, 65% of the respondents preferred looking at numerous factors, including how safe the destination is in terms of Covid-19 spread and transmission, and the hygiene procedures and international guidelines for prevention practiced.
Other determinants included facilities for old family members and children, amenities provided for emergency situations, and the local government\’s strategies and guidelines to curb spread of the virus.
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