A recent survey has shown that around 62 percent of Austrians want to spend a vacation regardless of the further developments in the corona pandemic. Around half want to spend it in other European countries.

Over a quarter are planning a long-distance trip and around a fifth would like to spend their holidays in Austria. 23 percent are undecided whether they will still travel, 15 percent have no more vacation plans this year. The survey was carried out on behalf of the residual space exchange portal. 1.300 people took part.

According to the survey, almost every second person prefers to book last minute, i.e. up to 14 days before the trip. This trend can also be seen in this year's booking figures for the remaining space exchange. “Compared to 2019, last minute bookings have more than doubled. Book today, travel tomorrow is the motto ”, says Roman Kresz, Head of Sales and Marketing at the Remaining Space Exchange. No wonder: Travel regulations and the situation in the holiday country can change constantly, which is why the decision about the holiday country has been more spontaneous than ever since Corona.

Flexible cancellation conditions are important

The remaining space exchange wanted to know which criteria have been playing the most important role in holiday booking since Corona. Clearly in first place: the travel regulations. Free cancellation and rebooking options rank in second place and are therefore more important for the respondents than a low price, which lands in third place.

Kresz: “There are concerns that a booked trip cannot take place due to changed travel regulations. Many tour operators have already reacted and are offering flex tariffs with which the holiday can be canceled or rebooked free of charge until shortly before arrival. We advise our customers which offer suits them best and we look forward to providing additional security. "

Majority is positive about Covid vaccination

87% of those questioned are either already fully vaccinated or would like to be vaccinated. That is much higher than the Austrian average of almost 60 percent. Fully vaccinated people enjoy many advantages when traveling, such as the elimination of the quarantine and test obligation, so it seems reasonable to assume that vacation is a strong incentive to get vaccinated.