Expect the postcards to continue in 2012

U.S. tourism can look forward to a greater number of people hitting the road this year after a Travelocity survey revealed that a majority of consumers intended on traveling more in 2012.

Despite holding concerns for the strength of the economy, 53 per cent of respondents in the annual Traveler Confidence Report said they were likely to travel more over the next twelve months, a year-on-year increase of 18 per cent. And encouragingly, around two-thirds plan to increase their travel budget, a six per cent rise on the year before.?

With just over half of all respondents working on a pre-determined travel budget, nearly 50 per cent of consumers will look to save money by increasing their comparison shopping, date flexibility and lead times. ?

¡°The travel industry should be encouraged by our findings and take this as a vote of confidence,¡± Travelocity Global president and chief executive Carl Sparks said. 

¡°While increases in spending are being driven by higher prices, travelers are taking more vacations and trips that are longer and farther away this year compared to last.¡±

According to the survey, 76 per cent of consumers plan to spend as much, or more on accommodation, while 79 per cent said they would fork out the same, or more on flights.

Optional extras, such as maid services and personal check-ins at hotels, and seating assignments, extra legroom and additional baggage on flights will mostly be avoided, the study found.??? ?