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With the continued easing of COVID-19 travel restrictions and growing vaccination rates across BC, a new BCAA travel survey reveals that confidence in international travel is starting to return, with 58% of British Columbians saying they feel ready to travel either this year or next. 

While 41% say the soonest they’ll travel is 2022, the survey conducted for BCAA by Insights West found that British Columbians aged 55+ are most likely to feel ready to travel again sooner.

Over 21% are confident about travelling later this year, which BCAA believes could indicate the return of the ‘snowbird’ travelers and reflect their high rate of full vaccination. Younger age groups are more cautious, with 26% of 18 to 34-year-olds saying the soonest they’ll travel is in the second half of 2022. 

Reassuringly, 86% say that they’ll plan and prepare with information like vaccination rates, local case numbers and government restrictions for their chosen destination. And 87% will protect their trip by buying travel insurance for trips outside of Canada. 
 

“Travel confidence comes from planning and ensuring your safety and the safety of others. It’s encouraging to see people taking their time to think through their travel and factor COVID-19 safety into their plans while also protecting themselves with travel insurance that includes COVID coverage,” said Namita Kearns, BCAA’s Director of Insurance Products. “We’re seeing travel insurance sales increasing significantly month over month as people look to international destinations again.” 

According to the BCAA survey, British Columbians are taking their time to think about and to plan trips. Just 13% of those thinking of a trip before the end of 2022 have already booked, while 30% are currently planning. And over half (58%) haven’t started formal planning but are thinking seriously about their trip.  

BCAA recommends that people research and protect themselves as they book upcoming travel options. “Check your insurance coverage, ask questions, and stay safe”, added Kerns.

BCAA advises travellers to check how much COVID coverage their insurance provides for their vaccination status, and whether their policy includes access to virtual medical care. Visit BCAA online for more travel planning and insurance tips.