While it may not be a complete surprise that consumers are becoming increasingly dependent on their personal technology, Travelocity’s latest survey of leisure travelers showed that even while “getting away”, many vacationers remain tied to technology and can be “plugged-in” to the world from even the most remote places. According to this recent Travelocity study conducted in partnership with nationally-syndicated family travel columnist Eileen Ogintz, one in three people actually find it MORE stressful to NOT be plugged-in, whether via cell phone, laptop, or PDA.

More than half of travelers between the ages of 22 to 45 admit to sneaking away from family and friends to check and respond to e-mail, voicemail, or instant messages. Also, most travelers in this age group impose no limits whatsoever on how frequently they “plug in” while vacationing. So, why do vacationers need to remain continuously connected even when they are supposed to be away?

“Technology has become such an integral part of travelers’ lives that many of us find it impossible to completely unplug,” said Amy Ziff, Travelocity’s editor-at-large. “This is an astonishing trend that demonstrates a change in how we vacation. It’s interesting to consider just how much rest and relaxation vacationers are really getting while away.”

The joint poll conducted from April 21 - 26, 2005 consisted of responses from 834 Travelocity members. The poll was conducted to obtain information about travelers’ use of electronic devices, such as laptops and mobile phones while on vacation, and their impact on vacation planning and activities. Complete survey details can be found at www.travelocity.com/pluggedinpoll and additional findings include:
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