AAA survey: COVID-19 affected travel plans for 76% of Floridians

New research from AAA shows the coronavirus has impacted 2020 travel plans for 76 percent of Floridians. This is according to the results of the AAA Consumer Pulse survey on travel, conducted in late May. While about 40 percent of Florida travelers had to reschedule at least one trip this year, 39 percent say they canceled a trip with no plans to reschedule.

Jocelynn Collins said she should be on a cruise in Europe right now, but she’s still here in Southwest Florida.

So instead of the trip overseas, the Collins family will try to go south to the Keys.

“We have a plan for July 12 – just for five days – like I said, we’re just kind of playing it by ear,” she explained.

They are part of the one-in-three Floridians surveyed comfortable taking a regional road trip, “I’m kind of waiting to see how the month of June goes. If there’s any spike in cases in that area and if those will have to evaluate.”

If you’re part of the nearly 80% of Floridians not ready to fly but have a voucher, make sure it doesn’t go to waste because of the small print.

Clint Henderson with The Points Guys says after squaring away expiration dates, make a list so you can keep track of the dates and dollar amounts, “When you’re getting these vouchers, the most important thing is to look for the expiration date.”

According to the survey:

• 57% will take fewer trips as a result of the coronavirus
• 39% canceled travel with no plans to reschedule this year
• 27% rescheduled a trip to later this year
• 13% rescheduled 2020 travel plans for 2021 or later
• 24% were not affected; did not change 2020 travel plans

“The coronavirus has had a significant impact on travel this year,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Even as Florida reopens and travel providers implement enhanced sanitation protocols, Floridians are mixed on how soon they’d be willing to take a road trip, a flight, or simply stay in a hotel. The majority say it will take some time before they feel comfortable traveling like they used to. Until then, Floridians will take fewer trips than normal, and take extra precautions to avoid contracting the virus.”

Summer Travel Plans

The 2020 summer travel season looks quite different than in years passed. Travel restrictions limit international travel opportunities, and some states require travelers to quarantine. Additionally, the CDC urges travelers to wear face coverings while in public, and to practice social distancing. Due to the limited ability to social distance, the CDC lists airports, bus stations, train stations, and rest stops as places travelers can be exposed to the virus.

“Floridians who are interested in traveling this summer are more likely to explore their own backyard, by traveling closer to home – due to the threat of the coronavirus,” said Jenkins “This means more people opting to take a road trip, instead of a flight, to avoid being in close quarters with strangers. The added value in driving is that summertime gas prices are the lowest in 15 years.”

Last year, 62 percent of Floridians took a summer vacation, which did not include the Memorial and Labor Day holidays. During the same period this year, nearly half as many (33%) Floridians have summer travel plans.

This summer (within next 3 months):

35% of Floridians would be comfortable taking a regional road trip in their own vehicle (300 miles or less)
23% would be comfortable staying in a hotel
18% would fly on commercial airlines
14% would rent a car for a road trip

Hotel Tips:

• Understand the cancellation policy associated with the rate you book. AAA.com offers rates that include the option to cancel, should your plans change.
• Know whether the hotel’s amenities are closed or otherwise affected by the pandemic.
• Understand the hotel’s cleaning procedures, which are being enhanced by many chains.
• Bring your own cleaning supplies for additional peace of mind and to sanitize high-touch areas like the remote control, phone, door handles, faucets, etc.

Air Travel Tips:

• Bring a mask and sanitizer.
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Consider packing a meal or snacks that would not violate TSA rules.
• Practice social distancing when you can while in the airport and elsewhere.
• Minimize personal encounters by managing aspects of your trip online like checking in.
• Know whether your destination or your activities will require you to quarantine when you return home.
• Understand your airline’s policies when you book.

The majority of travelers (76%) say they will follow CDC guidelines, by practicing social distancing, wearing a mask and washing hands. Two in three (67%) will bring cleaning supplies when traveling.

As a result of the pandemic, nearly half (48%) of travelers are more likely to purchase travel insurance. A quarter of travelers (25%) say they are more likely to use a travel agent for future travel plans.

“A travel agent is more valuable now than ever before,” Jenkins continued. “They can help identify whether any travel restrictions will impact your trip, help you make an informed decision, and ensure you fully understand your rights in case you need to cancel or reschedule.”

What would make travelers more comfortable?

Top five things that would need to happen in order for Floridians to feel comfortable traveling:

• 48% – When a vaccine is available for COVID-19
• 41% – When the CDC or World Health Organization says it’s safe to travel
• 38% – When COVID-19 virus cases start to decrease
• 30% – When airlines are deemed to be safer or cleaner

About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey

The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among 401 residents living in Florida from May 20 – May 24, 2020. Results asked of all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9 percentage points. Responses are weighted by gender and age to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in Florida.