Plus Size Travel Insights: Survey Results
Do you identify as a person of size?
Do you identify as a person of size?
This question aimed to understand how many participants self-identify as plus-size. 87.6% of respondents answered "yes," reflecting the strong presence of individuals who identify as plus-size, while 12.4% responded "no." This data highlights the diversity of experiences within the travel community.
How do you identify?
Do you identify as a person of size?
This question explored the gender identities of respondents. The majority, 83.9%, identified as female, while 9.3% identified as male. Smaller percentages identified as nonbinary (4.7%), genderqueer (0.5%), or genderfluid (0.3%). 1.4% of participants chose not to answer. These results provide insight into the gender diversity within the plus-size travel community.
How often do you travel?
This question aimed to gauge the frequency of travel among plus-size individuals. The results showed that 49.6% of respondents travel 1-3 times a year, while 29.3% travel 4-7 times annually. 9.3% travel 11 times or more per year, and 2.7% reported never traveling. This data offers valuable insight into the travel habits and experiences of the plus-size community.
How much do you spend on travel every year?
Would you travel more if the travel industry was more size-inclusive?
This question aimed to understand the annual travel spending habits of plus-size travelers. The majority of respondents, 31.1%, spend between $2,000 and $5,000 annually on travel, while 20.5% spend $5,000 to $10,000. 16.5% allocate $1,000 to $2,000, and 10.3% spend between $500 and $1,000. 5.3% of participants spend less than $500, and 2.
This question aimed to understand the annual travel spending habits of plus-size travelers. The majority of respondents, 31.1%, spend between $2,000 and $5,000 annually on travel, while 20.5% spend $5,000 to $10,000. 16.5% allocate $1,000 to $2,000, and 10.3% spend between $500 and $1,000. 5.3% of participants spend less than $500, and 2.8% do not travel annually. These results reveal the financial commitment of plus-size travelers and their varying travel budgets.
Do you believe the travel industry is currently plus-size friendly?
Would you travel more if the travel industry was more size-inclusive?
Would you travel more if the travel industry was more size-inclusive?
This question assessed perceptions of the travel industry's inclusivity for plus-size individuals. A significant 86.3% of respondents felt that the industry is not plus-size friendly, while only 9.3% believed it is. 4.4% were unsure, indicating a clear need for more inclusive practices and accommodations within the travel sector.
Would you travel more if the travel industry was more size-inclusive?
Would you travel more if the travel industry was more size-inclusive?
Would you travel more if the travel industry was more size-inclusive?
This question explored whether greater inclusivity would encourage more travel among plus-size individuals. A strong 66.1% of respondents said they would travel more if the industry were more size-inclusive, while 17.3% were unsure, and 16.6% felt it wouldn't impact their travel habits. These results highlight the potential for increased travel with improved inclusivity in the industry.
Does the travel industry adequately represent and cater to the needs of the plus-size community?
Have you ever experienced any seating challenges on airplanes, whether related to your body size or seat size?
Does the travel industry adequately represent and cater to the needs of the plus-size community?
This question gauged perceptions of the travel industry's representation and accommodation of plus-size individuals. A significant 85.2% of respondents believe the industry does not adequately address the needs of the plus-size community, while 10.9% felt it does, and 3.8% were unsure. This highlights a widespread belief that the travel industry still has much work to do to be truly inclusive.
Do you want to see more plus-size representation in the travel industry?
Have you ever experienced any seating challenges on airplanes, whether related to your body size or seat size?
Does the travel industry adequately represent and cater to the needs of the plus-size community?
This question measured the desire for greater plus-size visibility in the travel industry. An overwhelming 83% of respondents expressed a desire for more representation, while 11.9% were opposed, 2.7% were unsure, and 2.4% were open to the idea. These results show strong support for increased representation of plus-size individuals in travel marketing, services, and accommodations.
Have you ever experienced any seating challenges on airplanes, whether related to your body size or seat size?
Have you ever experienced any seating challenges on airplanes, whether related to your body size or seat size?
Have you ever experienced any seating challenges on airplanes, whether related to your body size or seat size?
This question explored the prevalence of seating challenges faced by plus-size travelers. A significant 79.9% of respondents reported experiencing such challenges, while 16.8% said they had not, and 3.3% were unsure. These findings underscore the need for improvements in airline seating to better accommodate travelers of all sizes.
Do you believe airplane seats provide enough room for passengers to travel comfortably and safely?
Have you ever had the opportunity to enjoy a vacation that was intentionally designed to be size-inclusive or plus-size friendly?
Have you ever experienced any seating challenges on airplanes, whether related to your body size or seat size?
This question assessed perceptions of airplane seat comfort and safety. A clear majority, 85.2%, believe seats do not provide adequate room, while 12.4% felt they do, and 2.3% were uncertain. These results highlight significant concerns about the design and space of airplane seating for all passengers.
Have you ever had the opportunity to enjoy a vacation that was intentionally designed to be size-inclusive or plus-size friendly?
Have you ever had the opportunity to enjoy a vacation that was intentionally designed to be size-inclusive or plus-size friendly?
Have you ever had the opportunity to enjoy a vacation that was intentionally designed to be size-inclusive or plus-size friendly?
This question explored access to size-inclusive travel experiences. An overwhelming 93.5% of respondents said they had not experienced such a vacation, while 4.8% had, and 1.8% were unsure. These findings highlight the rarity of intentional size-inclusive travel options and the need for more inclusive vacation opportunities.
If offered, would you opt for a size-inclusive or plus-size-friendly travel choice?
Have you ever had the opportunity to enjoy a vacation that was intentionally designed to be size-inclusive or plus-size friendly?
Have you ever had the opportunity to enjoy a vacation that was intentionally designed to be size-inclusive or plus-size friendly?
This question gauged interest in size-inclusive travel options. A majority, 60.1%, said they would choose such options, while 24.3% were open to the idea, 12.3% were not interested, and 3.4% were unsure. These results demonstrate strong demand for travel options that prioritize inclusivity and comfort for plus-size individuals.
Plus-Size Travel Insights: Key Takeaways
UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL OF PLUS-SIZE TRAVEL: INSIGHTS INTO MARKET DEMAND AND INDUSTRY GAPS
This survey provides valuable insights into the experiences and needs of plus-size travelers, showcasing both the current challenges and the significant demand for more inclusive travel options. Here’s a breakdown of the most compelling findings:
Audience Demographics:
- Gender Identity:
- 83.9% of respondents identify as female.
- 9.3% identify as male.
- 4.7% identify as nonbinary.
- Smaller percentages identify as genderqueer (0.5%), genderfluid (0.3%), and 1.4% preferred not to answer.
- Body Size:
- A clear majority of 87.6% of respondents identify as a person of size, while 12.4% do not.
Travel Habits:
- Frequency of Travel:
- 59.5% of respondents fly 1-3 times per year.
- 18.8% fly 4-7 times per year.
- 6.3% fly 11 or more times annually.
- 5.7% fly 8-10 times per year.
- 9.7% reported they never fly.
- Annual Spending on Travel:
- 31.1% of respondents spend $2,000-$5,000 annually on travel.
- 20.5% spend $5,000-$10,000.
- 16.5% spend $1,000-$2,000.
- 10.3% spend $500-$1,000.
- 5.3% spend less than $500.
- 2.8% do not travel annually.
Travel Industry Perception:
- Size-Inclusivity of the Travel Industry:
- 86.3% of respondents feel the travel industry is not plus-size friendly.
- 9.3% believe it is size-inclusive.
- 4.4% are unsure.
- Desire for More Size-Inclusive Travel:
- 66.1% of respondents would travel more if the industry were more size-inclusive.
- 17.3% are unsure.
- 16.6% do not believe size inclusivity would impact their travel behavior.
Seating and Comfort Challenges:
- Seating Difficulties on Airplanes:
- 79.9% of respondents have faced seating challenges related to their body size or seat size on airplanes.
- 16.8% have not experienced such challenges.
- 3.3% were unsure.
- Adequacy of Airplane Seats:
- 85.2% of respondents believe airplane seats do not provide enough room for passengers to travel comfortably and safely.
- 12.4% feel they do.
- 2.3% were unsure.
Representation and Resources:
- Access to Plus-Size Travel Resources:
- 71.7% of respondents have encountered difficulties accessing information about plus-size travel policies or finding readily available plus-size travel resources.
- 28.3% have not had these difficulties.
- Size-Inclusive Vacation Options:
- 93.5% of respondents have never had the opportunity to enjoy a vacation that was intentionally designed to be size-inclusive or plus-size friendly.
- 4.8% have had such an experience.
- 1.8% were unsure.
Consumer Demand for Size-Inclusive Travel:
- Willingness to Choose Size-Inclusive Travel:
- 60.1% of respondents would opt for a size-inclusive or plus-size-friendly travel option if offered.
- 24.3% are unsure.
- 12.3% would not choose such options.
- Interest in Sharing Experiences:
- 64.6% of respondents do not wish to share their experiences as a plus-size traveler in an interview.
- 24.7% are open to the idea.
- 10.7% would be willing to share their experiences.
Why This Data Matters:
- Market Opportunity:
This survey reveals a sizable, often overlooked market of plus-size travelers who are seeking more inclusive and accommodating travel experiences. With 66.1% of respondents indicating they would travel more if the industry were more size-inclusive, there is a clear opportunity for businesses to cater to this growing demographic. - Consumer Insight:
The data shows significant dissatisfaction with current travel offerings, particularly regarding seating comfort and accessibility. A majority of respondents (85.2%) feel that airplane seating does not provide enough room, and 71.7% have trouble finding resources for plus-size travel. Businesses that provide better accommodations and information for plus-size travelers stand to gain loyal customers and positive brand recognition. - Advocacy Impact:
The findings also underscore the need for stronger advocacy within the travel industry to ensure more inclusivity. With such a large portion of respondents (93.5%) never experiencing a vacation designed to be size-inclusive, there is a clear demand for better representation and more tailored travel offerings. By addressing these concerns, businesses can not only improve their services but also contribute to a more inclusive and equitable travel experience for all.
These results highlight the untapped potential in the travel industry and the importance of designing products, services, and marketing strategies that reflect the needs and desires of plus-size travelers.