Readers Traveling Despite Flu Outbreak

Pandemic? Maybe. But Panic? Maybe not. In a recent poll, an overwhelming majority of SmarterTravel readers said they’ll follow through with their future travel plans despite the ongoing flu outbreak. Here’s the breakdown:

Question 1: Has the outbreak of swine flu caused you to alter plans for travel in May?

• Sixty-seven percent said, ” No, I’m sticking to my plans.”
• Twenty-eight percent said, “Yes, I’m postponing or cancelling my plans.”
• Five percent said, “Yes, I’m rebooking to a different destination.”

Question 2: If swine flu sticks around into summer, will you alter your travel plans because of it?

• Forty-six percent said, “No, I’m sticking to my plans.”
• Thirty percent said, ” Yes, I’ll postpone or cancel my plans.”
• Twenty-four percent said, “Yes, I’ll consider alternate destinations.”

The takeaway from these numbers is pretty clear. The scope of the flu outbreak hasn’t reached the point where people are willing to forgo their travel plans. Even if the situation persists into June or perhaps July, a significant majority of travelers will hit the road regardless. In fact, in the case of a prolonged pandemic, a whopping 70 percent said they’ll still travel even if they have to consider alternate destinations.

The H1N1 virus seems to have everyone on edge, from cable news talking heads to airline execs, but this poll suggests travelers aren’t joining in on the panic. What do we make of that? Is the H1N1 virus getting a little too much hype? Are travelers simply unwilling to give up on their hard-earned vacations? Leave a comment below and tell us what you think. And thanks to everyone who participated in the poll!