Report reveals radical shift in buying habits
Britons are becoming “self-made travel agents” who take holidays on the spur of the moment and are more adventurous than ever before, according to Thomson Holidays.
A report into buying habits of holidaymakers revealed almost half now have no fixed way of taking a holiday, instead preferring to “pick-and-mix” during the year.
A similar number now regard a holiday as more important than buying a house.
The operator said the results represent a complete shift from the traditional way of holidaying.
The report, Expanding Horizons, said increasing numbers are seeking experiences rather than relaxation with 65% choosing cultural destinations, 17% wanting wildlife breaks and 13% seeking off-the-beaten-track locations.
According to the report, over 55s are the most impulsive travellers and spend the least amount of time researching holidays. More than one in ten spend less than an hour on research before handing over their cash compared to just 3% of 16 to 24 year olds.
Research revealed customers spend £400 on flights and accommodation for a main holiday and an average of £323 in resort. Men are the biggest spenders, with one in five forking out between £800 and £1000 on a luxury trip compared to only one in ten women.
Thomson added that the research highlights a booming singles market with 28% of those questioned having taken a solo trip and 50% claiming they would travel alone.
Thomson managing director Peter Rothwell said: “The UK travel landscape has completely transformed in recent years.
“Today’s Brits are self-made travel agents who take great pleasure in putting together their holidays. Travel now has a more defining role in our lives with many people ranking it a higher priority than owning property and career progression.”
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