Recent Trends in Canadian Travel: A Shift Toward Professional Assistance
A new study by Transat Distribution Canada (TDC) reveals a growing preference among Canadian travellers for using travel professionals over online booking platforms.
According to the survey conducted by Ipsos, 40% of Canadians and 45% of Quebecois plan to book their next vacation with the help of a travel expert. This marks a significant increase from 2023, when the numbers were 31% and 38%, respectively.
Why Travellers Are Turning to Professionals
The survey highlights three key reasons behind this shift:
Convenience: Travellers appreciate having all their booking needs managed in one place.
Reduced Stress: Professional assistance ensures smoother, hassle-free arrangements.
Personalized Service: Direct communication allows travellers to express their specific needs and preferences.
Marc Pelletier of TDC emphasizes the importance of the "human factor," noting that personal connections and trust are key reasons Canadians are returning to travel professionals. The TDC brand, backed by Transat, continues to inspire confidence among travellers.
Impact on the Travel Industry
Karine Gagnon, General Manager of TDC, stresses the importance of staying in tune with market trends to adapt marketing strategies accordingly.
This shift offers TDC members, from corporate agencies to home-based advisors, valuable insights into evolving consumer behavior.
Canadian Travel Preferences for 2024
The survey also highlights emerging travel trends for 2024:
Top Destinations: The U.S. (37%), local provinces (35%), and other Canadian provinces (33%).
International Hotspots: Mexico, the Caribbean (29%), and Europe (27%).
Preferred Transport: Air travel (68%) and car (50%).
Accommodation Choices: Hotels (73%) and house/apartment rentals (34%).
The Growing Role of Travel Professionals in 2024 and Beyond
With an impressive 90% of Canadians likely to travel in 2024, the value of travel professionals is becoming even more apparent. As travel plans become more complex due to changing regulations, health requirements, and fluctuating flight schedules, the expertise of a professional can offer peace of mind. Travellers are recognizing that professional guidance not only saves time and stress but also ensures a more tailored experience, whether it’s a dream vacation or a quick getaway.
Moreover, the rise of personalized services is driving this shift.
Travel professionals bring the added benefit of in-depth knowledge, access to exclusive deals, and the ability to navigate last-minute changes—benefits that most online booking platforms cannot offer. As Canadian travellers increasingly seek unique, custom-tailored experiences, the role of a trusted advisor becomes indispensable.
In a rapidly changing travel landscape, travel professionals will continue to be a crucial asset for both leisure and business travellers. They offer not just bookings but an added layer of support and reliability, allowing clients to focus on what matters most—enjoying their trip.
With Canadian travellers showing renewed confidence in using these experts, the travel industry is poised for a revival where human touch and expertise make all the difference.
As we move into 2024, it’s clear that the future of travel lies not just in digital convenience but in the personalized, seamless experiences that only travel professionals can provide.
Sources:
Transat Distribution Canada survey results May 2024
Ipsos study on Canadian travel preferences June 2024
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