The Barclays Travel Survey, which was conducted among more than 250 travel experts at this week’s Barclays Travel Forum in London, show 40% expect people to travel more this year, compared to 15% predicting a fall.
The figures are even better for 2017 with 52% confident of a travel increase and only 8% predicting a fall
In looking at their own businesses, 67% of delegates at the event were confident of this year’s outlook, rising to 87% in 2017. A further 83% predicted growth for their businesses this year and 95% in 2017.
Barclays’ head of travel Chris Lee said: “It’s reassuring to once again see this level of confidence in the industry, both in terms of prospects for this year and in the longer term.
“It’s no surprise to hear such optimism from our attendees, and is testament to the hard work they and their many thousands of employees put in to make sure the British public keep putting travel at the top of their wishlist.”
When asked which locations would experience the greatest increase in tourism this year, Asia came out top with 38% followed by Europe on 30%.
This result was supported by comments from industry experts at the event, who identified South-East Asia and the Mediterranean as hotspots for 2016.
In line with the popularity of Asian holidays, long-haul, tailor made trips were chosen by almost half as the sector with the greatest growth potential in 2016 at 45%.
There were also encouraging signs for UK operators, with 82% of respondents expecting an increase in demand for domestic holidays this year.
Regarding the external factors they are most concerned about, half the delegates identified security issues as the primary worry.
Limited accommodation during peak periods in ‘safe’ destinations anticipated to account for the greatest price increase to holidays this year was also a concern for 56% of respondents.
Lee said: “At a time when there is uncertainty in some other parts of the economy, the travel industry continues to trade strongly and post impressive results.
“This is made possible in no small part by the ever-improving customer service UK travel companies deliver, ensuring that their customers have the best experience they can from the moment they book right through to when they return home.”
