Flexcation, A New Covid-19 Family Travel Trend, Mixes Business With Pleasure

​Flexcation, a new Covid-19 pandemic family travel trend, allows families to escape for three to four weeks or longer, with parents working remotely and children enrolled in virtual classes anywhere in the world.  Families embrace new ways to mix business with pleasure by traveling during the off- and shoulder season during the calendar school year.

A nationwide Vrbo survey of families revealed that 50 percent of those surveyed agreed that flexible school schedules provide more flexibility in vacationing, while 48 percent said they can work from anywhere. And 21 percent of respondents said that working from anywhere creates big opportunities for travel.

Allen Marketing Communications, a boutique travel and lifestyle public relations agency based in New York City, spotlights key tips for destination marketers, hoteliers, and vacation hotel rentals to inspire families to book a flexcation with their establishment.

WiFi is Key 
The Covid-19 pandemic has transformed our lives forcing many parents to become digital nomads and their children to embrace online learning.   It is important for hoteliers and vacation rental owners to showcase WiFi access throughout the property.  Connectivity is key since many family members will need access to WiFi often at the same time.

Zoom meetings are the new normal to keep managers in touch  to their team, as well as teachers connected to their students.

Showcase Shoulder and Off-Season Travel Savings
By traveling during the shoulder and off-season, families will reap huge savings, on average, for a family of four.  Every destination has a shoulder and off-season travel period and savvy travelers can reap substantial savings, 20 percent or more, on airfare, hotel, car rentals.

“Flexcationers who wait until later in the season to visit sought-after destinations are also experiencing more attractive prices, with drops of at least 20 per cent in average nightly rates and lighter crowds from August to October, compared to prime summer travel dates. Prices for vacation rentals typically drop during off-peak seasons, which will appeal most to families who are not tied to strict in-person school or office commitments,” according to Short Term Rentals.

Shoulder and off-season packages showcase deep discounts will inspire parents looking for a change of scenery to book a flexcation at your establishment.

Location is Key
Flexcation presents an excellent opportunity to check off a bucket list destination.  It is important for destination marketers, hoteliers and vacation rental owners to showcase the endless adventures for parents with younger children, teenagers, and college students.

Families will have a chance to live like a local and explore hidden treasures in a particular location.  Family packages for local tourist attractions will inspire parents to venture with their children during their free time.

Travel Insurance 
The Covid-19 vaccines are injecting a new lifeline into travel and inspire many families to escape for an adventure of lifetime.  Although the number of Covid-19 cases are declining in the U.S., it is still important for families to book travel insurance during the pandemic.

Travel insurance will also give families an additional protection should things change unexpectedly before family getaway.

Our travel and lifestyle public relations professionals are here to help.  Give us a call.

By Joanna Allen, chief executive officer, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc.



 

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