Travel module of Household Income and Consumption survey (1998)

Abstract

The Travel Survey is a module of the Household Income and Consumption (HIC98) survey carried out in 1998. A certain number of the sample households used for this survey were questioned about pleasure and business trips with or without overnight stays that they had made during the preceding months. From the data obtained it was possible to analyse the travel habits of the Swiss within their own country and abroad. The general aims of the Travel Survey were, on the one hand, to fill the gaps in the official statistics on tourism and, on the other, to meet international recommendations concerning this field. The main specific aim of the survey was to obtain the best possible data on expenditure by Swiss people when they travel. This information is to be used for drawing up a Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) which will measure the economic significance of tourism in Switzerland. The HIC98 Travel survey examined private and business trips with or without overnight stays. The different types of trips included in the study correspond to the following definitions: Private excursions are same-day trips with no professional or commercial involvement. In the Travel Survey private excursions lasted at least 4 hours and took the subject away from his or her usual environment. Activities carried out on a regular and repeated basis were not considered as private excursions. Private trips with an overnight stay were defined as trips away from one’s usual environment involving at least one overnight stay but lasting not more than one year without interruption, made not for professional or commercial reasons. All types of private trips were included in the study. Business trips are those away from one’s usual environment, with an overnight stay or not and are for business or other professional purposes; they last not more than one year without interruption. Travelling companions are also on business.