Credit-crunch Brits opt for late summer breaks

Late summer holiday bookings are on the up as Brits cut back on other areas to ensure that they can still take a family trip abroad, says research released today by HolidayExtras.com.

A recent poll by HolidayExtras.com showed that 52% of customers had booked their holiday within three months of their departure, with 24% of those booking last minute. Furthermore, reservations from the UK’s leading provider of travel add-ons were up 8.5% and showed that compared to 2008, customers are booking their August holidays on average 7.5 days later than they were last year.

A further HolidayExtras.com survey of 1,000 Brits showed that to combat the credit crunch, one third of holidaymakers would be likely to scrap a trip to a UK destination this year. Instead, most opt to save up for a trip abroad - only 15% would be prepared to give up this holiday.

The credit crunch is also taking its toll on our romantic intentions, with amorous breaks another common cutback. The survey also shows that men would be more likely than women to scrap their romantic getaways this year (18% vs 14%).

Lads’ and girls’ getaways are also less popular, with 21% of people going without in 2009. However, the over 65s treasure these trips more than any other age group – only 7% are prepared to forego them.

Mike Whiting, managing editor, Holiday Extras said:

“Despite the combination of the uncertain financial climate and the weak pound, a trip abroad is a must for many budget-conscious Brits. Our research suggests that this year most would rather save up for a traditional family holiday overseas than any other type of break, and this is leading to a late summer spike in bookings. We are also increasingly seeing customers seek out travel bargains and ways to save cash wherever possible, including searching out late-booking deals.”

With ever-tightening purse strings, travellers are turning to no-frills airlines and self-catering deals to keep their budgets in check.

The majority of people would opt to use a no-frills airline (24%), however other popular options were going self-catering or all-inclusive (16%) and cutting spending money whilst away (12%). People would be least keen to try house-swapping (2.4%) in a bid to save cash.

Mike Whiting continues:

“For those who are determined to make their 2009 travel budget go further, no-frills airlines and late package deals can provide attractive discounts. At HolidayExtras.com, we offer a Best Price Guarantee on airport hotels, airport parking and airport lounges to give holidaymakers peace of mind that they really are getting the best deals around.”