The latest phenomenon in pandemic travel behaviour – the ‘tripping point’

If you’ve been feeling like the past seven months or so have been a challenge, you probably know you aren’t alone. This year, the balancing act required to cope with new realities of work, school, household chores and other obligations has become monotonous and overwhelming, especially without opportunities for a much-needed vacation.

Introducing the latest phenomenon in pandemic travel behaviour: the “tripping point.”

Expedia defines the tripping point as the intense need for a break from the routine and the moment at which day-to-day responsibilities become too much and result in the desperate need for a change of scenery.

And just as one might expect, these feelings are extremely common: According to a recent survey from Expedia, on average it took Canadians only 28 days into lockdown to reach their tripping point; though, around a quarter (25 percent) said they reached that point in the first week.

An escape from the day-to-day

Needing to get out of the house and a change of scenery (54 percent) and wanting some alone time (26 percent) were the most common reasons respondents found themselves at the tripping point, causing many people to seek relief via a quick road trip or staycation (29 percent). Others embraced self-care habits like spending more time outdoors (36 percent).

Another effective way to stave off the tripping point? Future-trip planning. One in five respondents used the time at home to research a big trip to take after restrictions eased, resulting in spikes in searches to places like the Caribbean, Hawaii and Mexico.

Once travel restrictions eased a little, it took Canadians on average just 35 days before they started researching or dreaming about their next trip.

Planning ahead and staying inspired about travel

With many Canadians historically heading south for the winter and beach travel being the popular choice, this year early indications suggest Canadians will be spending the winter season at home. This trend will be a first but will offer the opportunity to explore local and tap into outdoor activities and ski vacations.

Results also shed light on where travellers are most likely to go when they’re ready to travel freely, with the majority excited to visit friends and family who live elsewhere (27 percent). Another quarter are likely to head somewhere they’ve never been within Canada (26 percent) and around one in five said they plan to reschedule a trip they couldn’t take this year.

Your lockdown living situation could be shaping your travel plans

Whether the ideal next trip is a beach vacation or solo adventure tends to vary and turns out it has a lot to do with who you spent lockdown living with. Expedia survey results found:

• Individuals who lived with a partner and had no children during lockdown are most likely to desire a luxury, 5-star vacation with pampering and spa treatments.
• For parents, family-friendly activities and accommodations was the most important consideration for their next trip.
• Those who lived with roommates said they are keen to do an outdoor activity focused vacation, such as camping, hiking, or one that includes winter activities when they travel next.

To help travellers find the right trip for their needs whenever they are ready to get away next, Expedia compiled a list of the best options for those looking for a close-by staycation, stays with enhanced cleaning or those interested in affordable luxury.

With COVID-19, it’s important to stay safe and up to date on the latest travel guidance and restrictions. Find out what to expect, how to find flexible travel and other information on the Expedia COVID-19 travel guide.

Have you reached your tripping point yet?