Traveler confidence has surged from 39% in Q1 to 73% in Q3
Charlotte, N.C. (July 23, 2021) – Traveler confidence is soaring, according to a new AAA Travel survey, fielded in late June. According to the data, (82%) of North Carolinians and (77%) of South Carolinians feel more comfortable traveling now than they did three months ago.
Click here to view the full survey results and see Carolinians’ opinions about vaccination passports and their willingness to wear masks while traveling.
Over the course of the past three quarterly AAA Travel surveys, residents’ comfort level has significantly increased as their concern about COVID-19 waned.
| Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | |
| Concerned about Contracting Covid-19 | NC – 75%
SC – 76% |
NC – 62%
SC – 55% |
NC – 53%
SC – 43% |
| Feel Comfortable Traveling | NC – 36%
SC – 41% |
NC – 48%
SC – 49% |
NC – 73%
SC – 73% |
Top reasons Carolinians feel more confident traveling:
- Received their COVID-19 vaccination (NC – 53%) (SC – 48%)
- More confident in safety measures being implemented (NC – 32%) (SC – 33%)
- More knowledgeable about how the virus spreads (NC – 22%) (SC – 26%)
- Less afraid about the dangers of the virus (NC – 21%) (SC – 30%)
Of those who are already or plan to be vaccinated, 51% of North Carolinians and 46% of South Carolinians say travel was a motivating factor in doing so.
“AAA has experienced a surge in demand for travel as more Americans have become vaccinated and feel confident in their ability to vacation safely,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “AAA travel advisors have been inundated with calls from people who want help navigating the growing options for travel. Cruises and guided vacations are fully staffed and typically operating in 2021 with less than full capacity of guests, making a more intimate experience. In addition, these trips are largely inclusive of meals and activities, making it easier to choose a great value for travel in 2021. Our team members who are traveling this summer are having a great time.”
Travel Plans
Three-quarters (75%) of North Carolinians and 71% of South Carolinians have already traveled or plan to take a trip in 2021. 54% of North Carolinians and 58% of South Carolinians will take their next trip sometime between July and September. Travel volumes have greatly increased from the 54% of Carolinians who traveled in 2020.
Carolinians’ Top 5 Vacations in Q3:
- Beach Destination (NC – 45%) (SC – 42%)
- City/Major Metro Destination (NC – 23%) (SC – 20%)
- National/State Park (NC – 21%) (SC – 18%)
- Theme Park (NC – 16%) (SC – 19%)
- Lake Destination (NC – 14%) (SC – 15%)
Comfort Grows for Various Travel Types
Throughout the year, the majority of Carolina travelers have felt comfortable using their personal vehicle for a road trip. Yet during the past three quarters, AAA has noted significant improvement in travelers’ comfort in the following:
| Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | |
| Staying in a hotel/resort | NC – 40%
SC – 50% |
NC – 54%
SC – 55% |
NC – 72%
SC – 71% |
| Renting a car | NC – 40%
SC – 49% |
NC – 55%
SC – 53% |
NC – 71%
SC – 71% |
| Taking a commercial flight | NC – 23%
SC – 25% |
NC – 36%
SC – 35% |
NC – 58%
SC – 51% |
Cruising
A growing number of Carolinians are back on board with the idea of cruising. According to new survey data, over two in five (44%) North Carolinians and (42%) South Carolinians feel comfortable taking an ocean or river cruise, with (37%) of North Carolinians and (36%) of South Carolinians planning to cruise in the future.
“We are seeing tremendous enthusiasm among travelers who are ready to set sail on a cruise,” Haas continued. “Ships are filling up fast in 2021. Next year is looking even stronger, as 2022 cruise bookings with AAA are outpacing what we saw in 2019. New options for cruising in 2021 are emerging weekly, so travel advisors can watch for options if they know of your interests.”
Traveler Confusion
A third (33%) of North Carolinians and 28% of South Carolinians are finding it challenging to understand the COVID-related requirements for international travel. That’s because restrictions and protocols can vary depending on the destination and type of trip, and change as governments adapt to the local situation.
“The value of a travel advisor is greater now than ever before,” Haas continued. “AAA travel advisors have exclusive tools to quickly navigate requirements for each destination, helping travelers make informed decisions and prepare for their trip. Additionally, we leverage long-standing relationships with travel providers to provide options and special benefits that travelers can’t find anywhere else.”
Travel Insurance
Nearly half (45%) of North Carolinians and (43%) of South Carolinians say they are more likely to purchase travel insurance now than before the pandemic began.
“Travelers were quickly reminded last year that unexpected events can impact your trip at any time,” Haas continued. “Travel insurance is extremely important in today’s environment. There are various policies that can help offset unexpected out of pocket expenses, in case you get sick or your trip is cancelled or delayed. Plus, Travel Insurance provides a range of coverage options in the event that a hurricane disrupts your travel plans. Our travel advisors can help you choose a policy that will allow you to relax and enjoy your vacation.”
About the AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey
The AAA Consumer Pulse™ Survey was conducted online among residents living in the Carolinas from June 16-25, 2021. A total of 800 residents completed the survey. State results asked of all respondents have a maximum margin of error of ± 4.9% points. Responses are weighted by age and gender to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the adult population (18+) in the Carolinas.