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Holiday Extras research says 43% will spend the same on holidays
While the credit crunch is leaving its mark on some holidaymakers, around four in ten people (43%) are planning to spend the same on their trips as last year, says the latest Holiday Extras Barometer research released today by HolidayExtras. com.
Mike Whiting, managing editor, HolidayExtras.com said, “The credit crunch is changing the holiday habits of people in the UK, but there is no need for agents to panic. It’s true that some people are spending less, but this kind of insight can help agents to secure sales and deliver the right kind of service to their clients.”
According to the research involving 1,000 UK adults nationwide, the profile of travellers is changing. Value for money was by far the most important consideration when choosing a holiday (62%) and is 22% more important than it was in the last Barometer survey six months ago. This was most important to cash-strapped 18-24 year olds.
The company says that with many Brits on a budget, making safe choices is proving more important than ever, with travellers looking to past experience and their own research to inform their holiday choice.
When selecting a destination for a holiday, the most influential factor is traveller’s own research (41%), closely followed by past experience (36%).
“Agents need to think carefully about what motivates their clients to make a booking. Offering value options, such as last minute deals and add-ons such as airport parking, insurance and car hire, will enable agents to take advantage of the healthy investment that many holidaymakers are still willing to make. Tried and tested destinations and age appropriate suggestions will also help to close more sales,” continued Mike Whiting.
Holiday Extras Barometer shows that 29% of travellers over 65 will be spending more than last year, whereas 40% of 45-54 year olds say they’re planning to cut back on holidays this year.
Overall, 20% of people are planning fewer holidays this year, compared to the same survey six months ago, and the number of people taking four or more holidays a year has seen a 10% decline. Just over a third (35%) are planning to spend less on their trips. Specifically, men will be taking less breaks than women; 23% are planning to cut back compared to 16% of women.
