AllClear Travel Insurance has called the latest UK government travel update “a welcome step forward” but cautions that there is “still a lot more to be done to fully open up overseas travel”.
Chris Rolland, CEO of AllClear Travel Insurance comments: “With 36 countries now on the UK Government’s green list, last night’s news is a welcome step forward for UK holidaymakers, even though there is still a lot more to be done to fully open up overseas travel. Many within the travel sector will view the latest announcement as still overly cautious particularly when the cost and frequency of the required testing regime has still not been addressed. We know people are keen to travel – Our latest research suggests that almost half (45%) of British households want an overseas holiday – for many it is a keystone to the rebuilding of lives after months of lockdown.
“The key issue for holidaymakers and the travel sector as a whole is to focus now on making overseas travel safe. Our research shows people are far more likely to do their research on safe locations and safe ways to travel before booking, which is a clear sign that many people want overseas travel to work.
“At AllClear, we have seen evidence of a sea-change in consumer attitudes to travel – with safety replacing price as the new primary consideration shaping travel plans. In terms of safety overseas, looking for the right insurance policy that covers a range of Covid-risks and pre-existing medical considerations is also something we encourage all travellers to review seriously.
“For some, the latest announcement does not go far enough – but there is still time for many UK families to have a summer holiday and, for those whose children have left home, we predict a seismic boom in overseas travel this autumn as the green list is, hopefully, expanded. AllClear is gearing up for this and we have travel insurance to support everyone with pre-existing medical conditions, to ensure overseas travel is an equitable right for everyone.”
Recent travel research findings from AllClear (nat rep sample of 2,000 adults)
- 69% of UK adults said that 2020 had permanently altered the way they now think about holidays – with safety considerations rated more important than holiday cost and destination choice.
- The average holidaymaker will spend £1,478 more on a holiday to ensure they can be safe abroad.
- 51% of people said they needed an overseas break to help their mental health after extended periods of lockdown
- 42% of adults said they will check the state of the countries healthcare before booking.
- 41% of people who plan to go away are ensuring they have the best cover that protects them against covid related incidents.
