Nearly half of travellers will choose 2020 holiday destination based on pet-friendliness

The year 2020 will usher in a new era in pet-centric vacations — and owners seeking out animal-friendly accommodations — according to a leading travel booking firm looking at the growing trend of bringing pets along for vacay.

In a survey conducted by Booking.com, nearly half (42%) of travellers said they would choose their holiday destination next year based on whether Fido or Fluffy can come along.

And it isn’t just pet owners putting their animal’s needs in front of their own in terms of selecting where to go and what to do — they’re willing to shell out more.

Forty-nine per cent of survey respondents said they were willing to pay more for pet-friendly accommodation. No surprise, really, when you consider that more than half of people who took the survey — 55% — said their pet is as important to them as their children.

booking.com

A whopping 42% said they would enjoy their holiday excursion more if they were allowed to bring their pet with them.

“With this in mind, in 2020 we can expect to see to see pet owners around the world making a conscious effort to bring these cherished family members on vacation with them,” Booking.com said in its 2020 worldwide travel predictions.

With the number of pet-friendly properties rising on the booking platform, Booking.com says that accommodations will seek out innovative ways to up the ante for pet-tailored offerings. Think complimentary dog beds, pet spas, dedicated room service menus — and even specially-designed pet restaurants.

But even if people want to bring pets along on holiday, the travel service says that four out of 10 owners find there’s a lack of clear and quality information around travelling with pets abroad.

Because of that, the company anticipates that it will become increasingly important for resorts and hotels around the world to create a welcoming environment for their guests, two and four-legged alike.

Here’s the top five amenities owners said were important to create a “paws-itively fun and furry vacation”:

• Space for pets to run and play – 40%
• Veterinary support available – 25%
• A friendly and warm environment – 15%
• Pet-friendly activities – 19%
• Pet sitting or walking services available – 22%