Why two weeks in the sun isn't always good for you

New research released this week suggests that there is no longer a 'one size fits all' duration when it comes to holidays. And with this insight British travellers are being urged to take their own holidaying characteristics more into account when deciding how long to go away for.

It seems the traditional two-week summer break no longer works for everyone. If you're easily bored or normally surgically attached to the mobile or Blackberry, a longer break could actually do more harm than good. Equally those who fail to completely relax over a weekend but are normally short break advocates need to break out of their holidaying cycle to fully benefit from their time away.

According to new research from Saga Travel, it seems we all have different holiday boredom thresholds during our time away. One in ten 18-49 year olds get fed up before the end of the first week, while almost two thirds (58%) of over 50 ' s travellers never tire of being on holiday.

This year it's arguably more important than ever for our holidays to provide an escape from our daily worries. However almost one in ten (9%) of 18-49 year-olds struggle to completely unwind - worrying about what may be happening at home or work, with 12% communicating with friends, family or work colleagues at least once a day whilst away. The older we get, the more we are able to fully relax on holiday. 79% of over 50's remain relaxed throughout the duration of their break, with a third (33%) never contacting home.

Andrew Goodsell, Chief Executive, Saga Group, says, "Holidays should offer a much needed escape from daily stresses and strains, so it is important people choose the correct length of break that will benefit them the most. Using Saga's online holiday calculator, travellers can discover their ideal holiday duration."

The past year has been a turbulent time for holidaymakers. Thousands of passengers lost out as several high-profile airlines went bust, and as the downturn continues there could be more trouble ahead. Whilst those whose flights come as part of a package holiday are protected, the independent traveller, who has booked their flights direct, can be left high and dry if their airline goes under. As more people opt to holiday on their own terms over the Easter break, travelers are being advised to check that their insurance covers airline failure.

To use the new online holiday calculator and help you discover your perfect length of getaway, along with top advice on picking the right travel insurance visit sagatravel.co.uk.