Research by the association of travel agents and tour operators (ABTA) found 55 per cent of holidaymakers stayed in four-star accommodation over the past 12 months, with the figure increasing to 60 per cent among young families.

One in five people stayed in five-star accommodation, rising to nearly one in four of 25 to 34-year-olds and those aged 75 or over.

Holidaymakers are also opting for luxury when it comes to getting to their destination.

More than a third (37 per cent) of people travelled via premium economy or a higher class in the past year, with the figuring rising to 48 per cent among 25 to 34-year-olds, the ninth annual ABTA Holiday Habits report said.

Even families are shunning economy travel, with 47 per cent choosing premium economy or higher.

This was the first year the report looked at the class of travel people take and the star of accommodation they stay in.

Meanwhile, the research revealed that package holidays remain popular with 64 per cent of people taking the ready-made route.

It also said affordable flights have put long-haul trips within reach of more UK travellers in the past few years, with 32 per cent of 18 to 34-year-olds visiting Asia this year, up from 19 per cent in 2018, and nearly twice as many 25 to 34-year-olds visiting South America this year – 13 per cent up from 7 per cent.

There was also a notable increase in the number of young people travelling to North America and Africa, up 11 per cent and 5 per cent respectively.

Mark Tanzer, chief executive of ABTA, said: “Holidaymakers’ tastes are evolving, as are their expectations.

“The travel industry is continually adapting to the changing expectations of customers; whether it’s tour operators expanding their hotel offering to suit differing tastes, providing affordable luxury holiday destinations or offering great value flight upgrades.”