Britons are embracing a new trend of taking more holidays than ever before, according to recent figures. A survey commissioned by travel trade organisation Abta has revealed that people in the UK are now going on an average of 3.94 holidays per year. This marks a record high in holiday frequency, surpassing the previous years’ numbers. The data shows a significant increase from last year’s figure of 3.42 and the previous high of 3.91 in 2019.
The survey indicates that the rise in the number of holidays taken per person is largely driven by a group of “habitual holidaymakers”. Despite the proportion of people going on holiday remaining steady at 84%, the increase in trips per person suggests that some individuals are now opting for multiple holidays annually. Families with at least one child under the age of five were found to take the most holidays per person per year, averaging at 6.49 trips, comprising 3.74 UK holidays and 2.75 foreign trips.
Interestingly, the survey revealed that nearly half (48%) of respondents who went on a holiday in the previous year chose beach destinations, while 43% preferred city breaks. Moreover, the data showed a significant growth in the proportion of holidaymakers travelling with children who opt for cruises, almost doubling from 8% in 2019 to 15% this year.
According to the survey, holidays have become a top priority for consumers when it comes to spending, with only 32% stating that they are willing to reduce their holiday budget. This percentage is lower than those willing to cut back on eating out (58%), leisure activities (43%), clothing and accessories (43%), and electronic gadgets (36%).
Abta’s chief executive, Mark Tanzer, highlighted the importance of holidays in providing people with the opportunity to relax and spend quality time together. He noted a shift in consumer behaviour, with more people now opting for multiple trips throughout the year rather than a single summer holiday. Tanzer emphasised the confidence and trust that individuals have in the travel industry to help them create memorable experiences.
The survey was conducted with a nationally representative sample of 2,000 UK adults who were asked about their holiday activities in the past 12 months. The research was carried out by The Nursery Research and Planning between July 24 and August 2. The results were shared during Abta’s annual convention in Costa Navarino, Greece, shedding light on the evolving travel habits of Britons.