Household Bills
UK consumers favour minibreaks, but underestimate cost
Minibreaks are holidaymakers’ trips of choice this year, as consumers overwhelmingly favour getaways of five days or less over longer holidays, according to research.
The findings from American Express suggest that this year, 61 per cent of holidaymakers have taken at least one short break in the UK, with 32 per cent heading further afield to Europe. Some 46 per cent of those interviewed said they will spend more than five days away from home on holiday this year.
The poll found 31 per cent of those who head off on a shorter getaway do so because minibreaks feel more spontaneous, don’t take so much planning and cost less than longer holidays.
However, despite thinking shorter getaways are more budget-friendly, holiday costs can soon mount up with Britons spending an estimated £431 each on travel, accommodation, food and drink. Furthermore, 24 per cent admit to getting carried away and spending beyond their budget on holiday extras such as day trips, excursions and gifts.
Experiencing local culture is top of the agenda for mini-breakers. The two top activities on to-do lists are trying the local cuisine (38 per cent) and seeing as much as possible of the surrounding area by foot or public transport (33 per cent). People are prepared to spend significant amounts on these activities, spending an average of £131 on food and drink and over £100 per person on getting out and about.
The average cost of common minibreak expenditures:
| Activity | Cost |
| Accommodation | £172 |
| Food and drink | £131 |
| Flights/ travel to destination | £128 |
| Shopping | £92 |
| Tickets for activities, exhibitions, events, museums | £72 |
| Excursions | £64 |
| Local transport | £63 |
| Gifts for others | £55 |
| Treats e.g. spa | £51 |
| Tipping | £50 |
Source: American Express
[article_related_posts]
