More than half of Britains will holiday overseas this year

This year, 54% of Britains will be taking an overseas holiday, according to new research from Lloyds TSB Airmiles Duo Credit Cards.  The figure rises to almost 3 in every 5 (58%) amongst the 18 to 24 age group as well as for the over 55s.  Only 7% of those respondents who go on holiday have still not made their minds up one way or the other.

Short haul holidays to Europe remain the overall choice for just under half (49%) of travellers surveyed with the figure rising to 55% for the 35 to 44 age group.  The number drops to 44% for younger respondents with 16% of the 18-24 age group preferring long haul (i.e. beyond Europe).  Over 70% of Britains are still taking at least one holiday a year with almost  a quarter (24%) going on holiday twice a year and a very fortunate 5% going on holiday between four and six times a year.  Of these, just under half (46%) have one holiday overseas and 72% are more likely book their holiday in advance rather than at the last minute (16%).

The most important reason for wanting go on holiday is to take a break from everyday life and just relax.  Overall, 42% of travellers said getting away from it all was the key factor.  Almost 2 in 5 (37%) younger adults say they want to experience new countries and cultures, demonstrating that the spirit of adventure is alive and kicking in the 18 to 24 age bracket.   Only 8% of respondents who go on holiday say somewhere cheap is the most important reason for choosing a holiday destination.  Maybe unsurprisingly, almost a quarter (23%) of respondents in the 35-44 age group saw a child friendly destination as the most important factor in choosing their holiday abroad.    

Richard Thomas, Head of Loyalty Credit Cards at Lloyds TSB, said: "This research shows that a desire for rest and relaxation as well as a thirst for adventure continue to fuel Britains' love affair with jumping on a plane and jetting off overseas.  Travellers should make their spending work for them, abroad as well as at home.  Using Lloyds Airmiles Duo Credit Cards on purchases made overseas earns double Airmiles so holiday makers can start putting something towards their next holiday straight away."  

Andrea Burchett, Director Airmiles, comments: "It's great when you can get more for your money, especially when you're trying to get away from it all on your summer holiday. You can easily and quickly collect double Airmiles, on purchases made overseas with Lloyds Airmiles Duo Credit Card, ready to use for flights, family days out, theatre tickets and lots more. Visit airmiles.co.uk for more information."