As the holiday season approaches, Staysure’s recent research sheds light on the travel habits of Brits during the pre-Christmas period.
Contrary to the notion of a quiet winter, a significant 47 percent of Christmas travellers embark on their festive journeys between December 22nd and Christmas Eve, making it the peak period for Yuletide travel.
In a distant second place, post-Christmas days witness 27 percent of Brits on the move, while a mere 16 percent opt for an abroad celebration to welcome the New Year. The primary motivation for festive travel is spending quality time with family overseas, accounting for 39 percent, closely followed by those seeking a change of scenery at 31 percent.
For some, the stresses of the Christmas season drive their travel decisions, with 18 percent jetting off to escape family pressures and 12 percent aiming to sidestep the commercialism associated with Christmas, including advertisements and presents.
Among those abstaining from festive travel, 51 percent cite a lack of desire, while 33 percent deem it too costly, rising to 42 percent among individuals aged 35–44. Additionally, 12 percent are earmarking funds for a summer holiday.
Top Winter Destinations:
- Spain and the Canary Islands
- Australia
- Popular city-break destinations
- Long-haul choices
The research highlights Spain and the Canary Islands as the preferred winter holiday destinations, securing the top spot with 20 percent of respondents. Notably, Australia claims a close third, with other diverse destinations such as India and New Zealand making the top 10.
Breaking down preferences across generations, Generation X favours Switzerland and Italy, indicating a penchant for winter sports trips. In contrast, 44 percent of over-55s plan to stay home, reflecting a potential travel gap between generations during popular periods.
Ryan Howsam, Founder and CEO of Staysure, emphasises the importance of securing appropriate travel insurance during this bustling season. He notes, “It’s heartening to see people taking insurance out when they might not usually do so – Christmas is an expensive time as it is, and most people can’t afford to lose thousands of pounds on hospital bills.”
Shaun Jones from Swindon Travel Hub is thrilled about the growing trend of festive getaways revealed by Staysure’s research. “It’s great to see more Brits getting into the pre-Christmas travel spirit,” says Shaun.
“Whether it’s for family time or a change of scenery, people are embracing the season by exploring diverse destinations. The findings not only show a travel trend but also how individuals celebrate the festive season in various ways. The range of preferred winter destinations signals changing travel preferences, making it an exciting time for the industry.
“Remember, staying informed and well-prepared is key for a smooth holiday experience—a commitment we uphold at Swindon Travel Hub.”
