Looking for winter sun...at what cost?

As the seasons change and the weather gets colder, Brits will be seeking some much needed winter sun. Research from moneysupermarket.com reveals Brits spend nearly £700 on holiday must-haves, on top of the average cost of nearly £1,400 for travel, accommodation, food and alcohol.

Preparation for the holiday proves most costly, as expenses escalate up to £150, followed by activities while abroad, such as excursions, entry to museums and sporting adventures, averaging £110.

Away and in the holiday spirit, the costs keep mounting with Brits spending nearly £100 buying souvenirs and presents for those back home.

While Brits are happy to fork out for non-essential expensive extras, surprisingly over a quarter of British holidaymakers (28 per cent) run the risk of travelling uninsured. Yet the average amount spent on travel insurance is £67 – less than a tenth of the spending on extras.

Richard Mason, director of insurance at moneysupermarket.com, said: “It is astounding that consumers will shell out many hundreds of pounds on top of their main costs to prepare for their holidays; however they will not pay to cover themselves in the unfortunate event of injury or theft.

“Travel cover should not be an afterthought or considered as a ‘holiday extra’. While holidaymakers might think nothing will happen to them while they are away, travel insurance is vital for claiming on cancellations, lost cash, public liability and providing emergency medical treatment.”