A recent poll unveils the increasingly conscious choice of holidaymakers to support sustainable accommodation despite economic challenges.
- Nearly half of holidaymakers are ready to pay extra for green-certified holiday options.
- The survey indicates that frequent travellers are more inclined to pay a premium for sustainability.
- A significant portion of travellers plan to adopt eco-friendly travel practices.
- The findings reveal a growing commitment to reducing travel’s environmental impact.
Amidst a cost of living crisis, holidaymakers show a willingness to support sustainable practices in accommodation. Nearly half of those surveyed, 47% of over 2,000 respondents, are willing to pay at least £100 extra per person for eco-friendly accommodation, with one in eight prepared to spend over £500 more. The average additional spend averages £152 per person, illustrating a substantial commitment to environmental responsibility.
Frequent travellers exhibit a stronger dedication to sustainable travel. Among individuals who travel multiple times a year abroad, 61% show readiness to allocate more than £100 for greener accommodation choices, with an average additional spend of just over £200 per person. Even among those typically indulging in a single major holiday each year, 54% display a willingness to pay a premium for sustainable stays, averaging an extra cost of £194 per person.
Sustainability is a core component for a majority of participants, as reflected in their travel planning efforts. Two-thirds of respondents who prioritise sustainable travel are most willing to pay a premium, at an average of £243 per person. Among those less focused on eco-conscious travel, 52% are still ready to spend over £100 more, averaging £169 per person.
The shift towards sustainable choices aligns with broader economic and environmental awareness. Eighty-one per cent of the survey participants actively look for ways to save money whilst reducing their carbon footprint. Strategies include opting for closer destinations to minimise air travel, reducing baggage weight, and choosing public transport over private vehicles for airport commutes.
Efforts extend to reusing clothing, opting for second-hand attire, and supporting local economies by eating locally sourced produce. Such choices demonstrate a collective move towards environmentally friendly travel practices, amidst rising cost pressures.
Chris Rolland, CEO of a leading travel insurance firm, highlighted that despite financial constraints, “the willingness to invest more in supporting environmentally responsible practices demonstrates travellers’ deep commitment to greener travel.”
The commitment of holidaymakers to sustainable travel is evident, demonstrating a conscious shift towards environmentally responsible tourism.
