The survey found that 61% of European tourists, including UK travellers, planned to travel this year, which was lower than similar studies in spring and summer 2021. Although it was higher than a year ago when the percentage was just 54%.
ETC said that “fragmented and inconsistent” border restrictions across Europe in response to the spread of Omicron had “impeded” consumers from making travel decisions.
Consumers’ hesitancy about booking travel increased from just 11% in September 2021 to 21% in the latest survey, with only 17% having already booked their next holiday.
Although, there was more encouraging data with 61% of Europeans remaining optimistic about travelling during the first six months of 2022, with trips inside Europe the most popular choice.
The top five destinations for UK travellers during the first half of 2022 were: Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Germany. While only 18% of Britons planned to travel outside Europe.
The survey also found that Europeans planned to take longer holidays and spend more money while on their break – reflecting similar findings in other consumer polls.
The majority of Europeans (63%) are planning to travel for leisure, but business travel is also picking up for the first time since autumn 2020 with 15% expecting to travel for business or to attend events and conferences.
Survey respondents also said they wanted to see a “healthy balance” between Covid protection measures and the ability to enjoy a holiday.
Quarantine remains the top concern for travellers at 18%, followed by rising infections in their chosen destination (15%) and potential changes to travel restrictions (14%).
