More people will travel, but will spend less on their holidays than in 2011
When it comes to taking that all-important holiday, it seems more Brits plan to book trips this year despite the turbulent economic situation in the UK. But while doing so, they will be looking for ways to save on their travel needs. According to research commissioned by Hotwire.com®, nearly one million (955,092) more Brits plan to take trips in 2012 versus last year (75% of the adult population compared to 73% in 2011), but will spend on average slightly less than they did last year.
75% of those surveyed were not put off by the grim economic outlook for the year and commented that they intend to continue travelling. In fact, nearly one in five of Brits spending more on travel this year (18%) watched their spending in 2011 and saved money in order to holiday in 2012. However, the average spending of UK holidaymakers will be 4% lower, dropping from GBP 2,009 to GBP 1,920 (per household).
To enjoy those additional trips on a tighter budget, 30% of Brits will look for travel deals more than they did in the past, 18% plan to base their decision on price rather than the travel brand and 14% will travel in the UK rather than abroad.
“The results of the Hotwire.com survey show that Brits are determined to get away this year, but will be watching their spending more closely,” said Fulvia Montresor, senior director at Hotwire.com. “With the four day bank holiday weekend to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, Euro 2012 and the Olympics, there are lots of events that Brits may want to travel to or escape. With our Secret Hot Rates, we are giving everyone an opportunity to take those extra trips without the worry of spending more than they need to. At Hotwire, we want everyone to be able to travel as much as they want in 2012, and that’s why we work hard to offer 4-star and 5-star hotels at up to 50% off the lowest published room rates*.”
The research also showed that the older generation continues to splash out the most on breaks away from home, with the over 55 holidaymakers spending an average of GBP 2,123 compared to an average spend of GBP 1,864 amongst 34-54 age range and GBP 1,739 for 18-34 year olds (spending per household). Londoners who are planning holidays in 2012 will spend the most on escapes (GBP 2,243 per household), almost GBP 500 more than consumers in the North (GBP 1,702 per household).
