🚆 Do people travel less on Friday the 13th?
Yes, data and travel search engines indicate that people do travel slightly less on Friday the 13th due to cultural superstitions (known as triskaidekaphobia or paraskevidekatriaphobia).
Key Trends and Data
- Search and Booking Dips: Travel search engines like Kayak have reported that global flight search activity and bookings can drop by roughly 11% to over 16% on Friday the 13th compared to normal Fridays, depending on the region (e.g., higher drops noted in countries like Germany and Spain).
- Lower Traffic on Roads: Insurance data from sources like the UK insurer Churchill has even shown fewer car insurance claims on Friday the 13th than on standard Fridays, suggesting some drivers choose to stay off the road
- Price Fluctuations: Because some superstitious travelers avoid booking flights or holidays on this date, demand softens slightly, which can sometimes result in lower airfares or discounted travel packages (though this varies heavily depending on the season and whether major holidays or events overlap).
- Statistical Safety: Despite the hesitation, accident statistics show that traveling by plane or car on Friday the 13th is just as safe as any other day of the year
Great read! I actually booked a flight on Friday the 13th a couple of years ago just to snag one of those lower fares you mentioned. The airport was noticeably quieter than usual, and everything went smoothly without a single delay. Looks like the HoundLine crew doesn’t let a little superstition slow down their schedule either!
I had no idea there was an actual dip in car insurance claims on Friday the 13th, though it makes total sense if more people are staying home. Personally, I’ll take any excuse to avoid traffic and hop on a train instead—especially if Ms. Bibi and Mr. Jerry are running the line!