Revealed: the majority of travelers would rather sit next to a PET than with a child on a plane
Research shows that the majority of people on an airplane would rather sit next to a pet than a child.
Travel site Improved points surveyed more than 1,000 pet owners and non-pet owners to find out what people really think about traveling with pets.
A third (34 percent) of non-pet owners surveyed are uncomfortable sharing cabin space with other people’s pets, while significantly more non-pet owners (57 percent) would rather spend their trip next to a pet than with a child.
And more than one in four pet owners (26 percent) would rather travel with their pet than their own child.
While this preference suggests a welcoming environment for people traveling with pets, other results from the study suggest it is not without complications. The American research shows that 85 percent of pet owners have experienced problems or limitations while traveling with their pets.
Research shows that the majority of people on an airplane would rather sit next to a pet than a child
So much so that a whopping 70 percent of people would rather take their pet on an eight-hour road trip than on a two-hour flight.
But this doesn’t stop travelers from wanting to take their furry friends with them, as almost two-thirds (66 percent) of pet owners would take their pet with them every time they travel if it were possible.
The survey found that many pet owners are willing to go the extra mile when traveling; 83 percent of pet owners admit to changing their plans to better meet their pet’s needs.
The American study shows that 85 percent of pet owners have experienced problems or limitations while traveling with their pets
The survey found that 75 percent of pet owners would pay more for a pet-friendly hotel, while 64 percent of pet owners say they would spend an extra $50 (£39) per night for pet-friendly accommodation.
Surprisingly, a third (33 percent) would give up their dream destination for a standard holiday if it meant their pets could come along.
Alex Miller, Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, said: “Traveling with pets comes with a unique set of challenges and rewards.
“Our latest research provides insight into the balance Americans strike when traveling with their pets, and what non-pet-owning travelers think about it too.”
To view the original research, visit upgradepoints.com.