Older travellers are a major driving force for boosting tourism, according to the findings of new research.
According to figures from tour operator Travelsphere, more than half of all holiday spending is down to older travellers, with 45 to 54-year-olds taking more holidays overseas than any other age group.
Those aged 55-64 were the only age group which increased long-haul travel between 2008 and 2010. This was during the height of the recession, when overall market decline was at 9 per cent.
Older travellers account for more than half of all holiday spending, and are recognised as today’s most prolific globetrotters. In 2010, 40 per cent of all long-haul trips were taken by 45-64 year olds.
The Travelsphere Frequent Flying and Globe Trekking Older Travellers Report found a number of people over the age of 45 viewed holidays as essential.
The current economic climate has led many to cut back on holidays and overseas flights; however, two thirds of over 55s see holidays as a necessary spend. Half of 45-54 year olds share this view, while 45 per cent of those under 45 think holidays are essential.
The study also revealed that a staggering 28 per cent of over 65s take two or more foreign holidays a year, compared to 19 per cent of all British holidaymakers.
Dispelling the myth of a technophobic older generation, the research also found that older holidaymakers are more likely to book a trip online than their younger counterparts.
“Many of today’s older travellers have time, money and the internet at their fingertips to entice and enable,” said Ian Smith, group chief executive of Travelsphere.
“The UK’s older population is growing at the fastest rate, accounting for 17 per cent of our population today, but is expected to rise to 23% by 2035, so older travellers will continue to dominate the tourism offering at home and abroad.”
