Wairarapa travellers air pet hates

A Southern Cross Travel Insurance survey asked 2000 Kiwis what exasperated them most while travelling and more than a third cited travel delays as their pet hate.

Wairarapa globetrotters are more likely to have their travel plans foiled by illness than bad weather, a travel agent says.

A Southern Cross Travel Insurance survey asked 2000 Kiwis what exasperated them most while travelling and more than a third cited travel delays as their pet hate, with inferior accommodation coming second and annoying tourists third.

And while many travellers resented being seated next to a toddler on a plane, less than 10 per cent of people thought children were the biggest holiday irritation.

World Travellers Masterton owner Lisa Falk said travel delays were a big spanner in the works so insurance was crucial.

But lately the biggest problem for local travellers happened before they headed off.

"In this last year, we've had a lot of people get sick ... bad illnesses that have stopped them from travelling.

"It's more common than people missing a flight because of the weather."

The rise of online bookings for domestic flights meant most customers were after long-haul destinations such as the US, Canada and Europe.

India was also becoming increasingly popular.

"People are becoming much more adventurous."

Southern Cross Travel Insurance boss Craig Morrison said travel-bound Kiwis could perform a few simple tasks to minimise disappointing holiday situations. "Everyone loves a bargain, but those booking cheap flights and cheap holidays may be more susceptible to unexpected travel interruptions and cancellations.

"Equally, if you can't stand children, then avoid travelling during the school holidays."

Researching accommodation spots, particularly cheap ones, online was also useful - especially for those keen to avoid bed bugs on their holiday.

Last month, Christchurch woman Debbie Roome, 44, suffered a painful allergic reaction after being bitten 300 times by bed bugs at the Auckland Airport Kiwi Motel

Cover for medical expenses remained the most common reason to buy travel insurance. APNZ