Study shows 41% of adults travel with access or health considerations in mind, highlighting accessible tourism as a growing market.
A new UK study reveals that 41% of adults travel with access or health considerations in mind, highlighting accessible tourism as a major and growing market.
Commissioned by Responsible Travel and based on a survey of over 2,000 adults, the research shows that accessible travel is no longer niche. Over one-third of respondents report living with long-term health conditions, while others travel as caregivers or companions. This figure exceeds official disability statistics, suggesting the market has long been underestimated.
However, confidence remains a major barrier. Beyond cost, stress and lack of confidence are the biggest obstacles to booking holidays. Nearly one in four people with access needs say limited confidence restricts their travel choices, rising to almost one in three among Gen Z. By contrast, only 8% of those without such needs report similar concerns.
A key issue is the lack of clear, accessible information. While demand for inclusive travel is strong, fewer than 8% of holiday companies provide comprehensive accessibility details, and only 3% allow travellers to filter holidays by access needs. Experts warn this information gap is undermining confidence and costing the industry commercially.
People with access need express strong interest in cultural, nature-based, and active holidays designed with their requirements in mind. Among younger travellers especially, the appetite for inclusive adventure is significant.
The findings point to a clear message for the tourism industry: accessible travel is mainstream, demand is rising, and better information, transparency, and inclusive design are essential to unlock opportunity for millions.
Source: Trade Arabia
