32% of Northern Ireland holiday-goers have been charged unexpected holiday fees: HSBC UK survey

Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com 
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
Visit Shots! now
HSBC UK set out to uncover the key travel trends and spending habits of Brits. In a survey of over 2000 participants, the results reveal intriguing insights into how holidaymakers plan and spend during their getaways.

The survey has revealed that package holidays reign supreme among British travellers, with 35% favouring this option. This trend holds steady across almost all age groups, apart from 36% of 25-34 year-olds and 47% of parents who travel with their children who say they prefer city breaks. The survey also revealed the top destinations this year:

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Spain: according to 28% of UK respondents: Greece: 17%; Italy: 16%; France: 14%; Portugal: 13%

The average person spends eight months saving for a holiday, with parents facing a longer ten-month savings period.

Submit your storySubmit your story
Submit your story

The survey found the overall cost of a family holiday abroad is the most important deciding factor for 54% of parents who travel with their children, followed by a sunny/warm climate (51%) and 44% of parents consider the price of their holiday accommodation.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The typical holidaymaker spends an additional £250 on "extras" during a week-long getaway compared to their regular at-home expenses. This extra spending often goes towards dining out, attending live events, shopping for clothes, and transportation.

Interestingly, the survey also revealed that holiday spending is a sensitive topic, with 57% of respondents admitting they never disclose their expenditures while away. Younger travellers are far more open about their holiday spending, with 64% of 16-24 year-olds willing to discuss their expenses. In contrast, only 22% of those aged 55 and over are likely to share how much they've spent on their holidays.

Popular souvenirs among Brits include memorabilia from iconic landmarks (27%), local handicrafts or artwork (24%), specialty foods or beverages (20%), postcards or stamps (17%), traditional clothing and accessories (16%), and unique vintage items from flea markets or street vendors (16%).

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

HSBC UK’s survey highlights the charm of unplanned adventures. A notable 36% of UK respondents have taken an impromptu day trip to a nearby town or attraction, with this trend most popular among those aged 55 and over (41%). Among these spontaneous travellers, 48% discovered new sights they wouldn't have seen otherwise, and 38% felt it made their trip more exciting.

HSBC UK's Global Money account offers a solution by allowing customers to spend abroad with competitive live exchange rates and no HSBC fees.

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.