Holidays remain a priority despite cost of living crisis
Research from UK-based Just Travel Cover found that despite the pressures the public is seeing on their finances, holidays remain important, and 97 per cent of people know that travel insurance is vital
The research shows that sun-starved Brits will find the money for a foreign holiday this year, despite rising costs of fuel, food and energy bills. The insurer found that 71 per cent of people said the increase in the cost of living has not stopped them booking a foreign holiday, and 76 per cent said a holiday was still a priority, amid rising household bills.
The survey, which was completed by more than 1,000 British travellers, also found that the vast majority of people will opt for a foreign holiday over a UK break, with 71 per cent saying they’re ‘heading abroad regardless’.
One customer said: “Holidays abroad still appear cheaper than some in the UK and with no guarantee of good weather; some UK holidays are ridiculously overpriced for what you get, e.g self-catering (here) can cost more than all inclusive (abroad).”
Another added: “It (the cost of living rise) has been something to consider, and (I have made) cut backs in order to afford a holiday.”
After two years of travel restrictions resulting in many people going without a holiday – it’s clear that demand is now soaring, with more than 70 per cent saying they already have a holiday booked this year, and 61 per cent of those who have nothing booked are planning a last-minute holiday in 2022.
Dale Robinson, Head of Marketing at Just Travel Cover said: “This research shows how important a foreign holiday is to the British public, and people are looking forward to going abroad again, despite the cost-of-living crisis. However, with the cost of medical treatment abroad also rising, it’s crucial people take out travel insurance so they’re not left with hefty bills.”
The importance of Travel Insurance was highlighted too, in findings showing that 97 per cent of people agree that travel insurance is more important than ever, however the vast majority underestimated or had no idea how much the average medical claim costs.
Robinson added: “The fact that almost everyone agreed that travel insurance is more important than ever speaks for itself. Unfortunately accidents can happen anywhere and it’s estimated that 3,000 people need hospital treatment abroad every week, with bills costing from a few hundred pounds to several thousands, so it remains critical to take insurance and check you have appropriate cover in place, especially if living with pre-existing medical conditions.”