2024 Travel Fever: Nearly Three‑Quarters of Brits Plan a Getaway
Even as the cost of living keeps pulling at pockets, a whopping 71% of UK adults are already setting their sights on a holiday, or at least at least thinking about one for 2024, says new research from travel‑money provider John Lewis Finance.
How Many Trips Are on the Agenda?
On average, holidayers are lining up three trips this year. That’s a liftoff of the same destination with different itineraries!
Staycation or Take‑off?
- UK (40%) – Home‑is‑the‑place to be. More than 2 in 5 Brits are booking a staycation.
- Spain (21%) – The sun is still a big draw.
- France (13%) – Paris or Provence, you decide.
- USA (10%) – From NYC to the Grand Canyon.
- Italy (9%) – Pasta, ruins, and that unmistakable Italian vibe.
- Greece (9%) – Santorini is still calling.
- Portugal (6%) – Lisbon’s charm is irresistible.
- Germany (4%) – Berlin to Bavarian castles.
- Turkey (4%) – Between Istanbul and the coast.
- Canada (4%) – Big North adventure.
Why the Surge?
Perhaps it’s the promise of a week away, or the lure of an Instagram‑ready backdrop. Either way, it suggests that holidaying remains a top‑priority for the UK’s crowd, even when wallets feel a little tight.
So, whether you’re dreaming of a beach in Spain, a culinary retreat in Italy, or a quick staycation in the nearest charming town, 2024 is shaping up as a big year for the travel hungry. Pack your bags, because the urge to escape is alive and kicking!
Beach holidays are in, but Airbnb is out
Where Are Brits Heading in 2024?
Picture this: the average UK adult is setting their sights on either the beach or a buzzing city scene. 40% are hunting sun‑baked horizons, while 39% are craving the metro vibes of bustling streets.
Top Three Travel Choices
- Beach break – 40% of travelers on the go.
- City getaway – 39% of wanderers, ready for cafés, museums, and that perfect selfie spot.
- All‑inclusive/resort trip – 19% of folks love a fully served vacation.
So next time you’re dreaming of a holiday, just remember: 5 out of every 10 UK adults will probably opt for a beach. That leaves 15% still undecided – probably still debating whether they want pancakes with their ocean view.
Where to Sleep? Hotels Rule!
When it’s time to book a room, hotels are the clear champions. 61% of holidaymakers choose a hotel for that polished, predictable experience. Airbnbs and homestays, on the other hand, capture only a modest 13% of the market.
It seems that when excitement is ablaze, “home” stays in the comfort aisle—a perfect seat with yours truly, an napped yet polished spa room.
Money matters
Why Every UK Traveller Carries Cash on Holiday
Picture this: you’re strolling down a quaint cobblestone street in Lisbon, and suddenly you want to buy that handmade water‑colour map dangling from a local shop’s window. But you have no cash. Too bad! Realising you’re short of coins that day hits you in the wallet—and also in the soul.
According to fresh numbers, 70 % of adults in the UK always bring foreign cash before they jet off. And a whopping 79 % say having local money makes everything feel just a little easier. Yet a third, about 33 % of travellers, hit a snag—no cash means no pastries, no souvenirs, no spontaneous “why‑not” moments.
John Lewis Finance Voices Travel Wisdom
Matt Richardson from John Lewis Finance is quick to point out that a holiday isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the feel‑good factor that can lift you out of the winter blues.
- “Short stays at home or far‑away adventures both can brighten your mood.”
- “We’re thrilled to see the UK popping up on so many travel itineraries.”
- “If you’re heading abroad, make sure you do more than just snap pics – drop by markets, meals, and local shops.”
Either way, having a little local cash tucked away can make your trip feel more authentic—and less like a Monopoly board with empty spaces.
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Happy hunting, and may your wallets be full of good memories!
