London, November 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — New research shows that tourists with disabilities are paying 460 dollars more than customers without disabilities for travel insurance to go on vacation, a significant premium compared to those without disabilities or medical conditions.
The research also looked at other barriers disabled tourists face when travelling, including time inequality, digital access, lack of representation of people with disabilities, lack of inclusive design and lack of disability knowledge and how to meet the needs of customers with disabilities.
Two out of three disabled people face stressful and unsafe situations when traveling due to lack of access. A fifth of disabled people reported feeling unsafe and scared when traveling and one in ten were unable to access the toilet.
As a result, feelings of embarrassment, isolation and disregard were felt by a quarter of respondents, and nearly a quarter (21%) felt ignored.
The Valuable 500 is the largest global collective of CEOs committed to disability inclusion. High-profile members include Expedia, Airbnb and British Airways.
The business collective has released a 7-point manifesto that every travel industry provider must adhere to to ensure best practice. To be a part of this, please register your interest: travelmanifesto@thevaluable500.com
The full report is here.
Caroline CaseyFounder, Valuable 500 commented: This research adds to a growing list of discrimination that people with disabilities face every day. When a hotel, restaurant or transportation provider is unavailable, you’re leaving some business on the table.
The global spending power of people with disabilities is estimated to be 13 trillion dollars every year, so the business case for the travel industry to put accessibility first, rather than as an afterthought, is absolutely imperative. This can be remedied by placing disabled staff and consumers at the center of the travel business. If you put inclusive and accessible design at the heart of the business, it not only gives access to the disability market, but is better for everyone.
Kathy MartinezVP of Global Disability Inclusion at Expedia:
“Travel strengthens bonds and broadens horizons, yet historical, physical and social barriers often limit equal access to travel. Disability is a natural part of the human condition. Everyone should have the right to travel, regardless of their abilities. Expedia Group is committed to creating a more open world and closing equality gaps.By collaborating with our extensive network of resource partners like our Accommodation Accessibility Guide, we are able to share best practices and to work together towards a collective goal to ensure that travelers with disabilities are valued and included.”
Notes to editors
Research-based sample of 1,000 US-based travelers with disabilities conducted via Opinium, August 29 – September 10, 2022.
Learn more about the Valuable 500 here
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