It’s a Brit break for frustrated travellers

British holidaymakers spend on average 1,498 hours (five months) each travelling abroad to their chosen holiday destinations in a lifetime, according to new research. Coupled with the rise in fuel surcharges and the strain of rising living costs it’s no wonder one in four holidaymakers now plan to spend their summer holiday in the UK.

The study by Thistle Hotels also revealed the main travel frustrations of holidaying abroad with one in two claiming the distress of delays, closely followed by other passengers and lost luggage as the most irritating aspects.

Chris Gillett, chief operating officer at Thistle Hotels said: “Travelling abroad may guarantee better weather, but it has it’s downsides – not only does it waste a considerable amount of time travelling, it can be a more expensive option with the rise in fuel surcharges, plus it has a greater impact on our environment than a holiday in the UK.

“The UK has some beautiful and diverse holiday packages from seaside resorts, to activity breaks such as walking or more cultural city spots.

“We have noticed a rise in popularity of breaks in the UK and with 25% of holidaymakers vowing to take a Brit break this year - let’s hope this holiday option continues to rise in popularity.”

When it comes to the environment we’re still not conscientious enough with over a third of holidaymakers saying they do not consider the environment when planning travel arrangements for their summer holiday.

The study of over 1000 people by Thistle Hotels looked at all the elements of time spent holidaying abroad including organising insurance, changing money, organising car hire, taxi to the airport, check-in and airport delays, as well as flight time, luggage collection, transfers and finally when you get to the hotel and queue to check in.

For more information on UK holiday breaks visit Thistle.com.