UK. Britons spend more on pre-trip essentials than they do on the basic cost of their holidays, according to new research from Abbey National Credit Cards and Personal Loans.
UK holidaymakers will take around 40 million international trips this year and more than 11 million of these will have researched or bought their breaks online, keen to pick up a cheap deal. However, according to the research, savings they may have made on their holiday package are likely to be spent several times over on pre-holiday essentials.
The survey of 500 people in June 2003 found that the average UK holidaymaker spends £430 (US$701) on holiday-related items such as sun-bed sessions, haircuts, cosmetics, books and new clothes, while a week-long package can cost as little as £200 (US$326).
The average woman spends £472 (US$769) including £45 (US$73) on beauty treatments such as bikini waxes, manicures and haircuts. Men spend an average £392 (US$639) in total, with just £12.90 (US$21) on pre-holiday pampering. And women spend more on insurance, clothing and basics, such as sun tan lotion and camera film.
The only area where men outspend women is in last minute airport purchases, for example duty free and meals – with £52.25 (US$85) versus £46.25 (US$75).
The survey also found that the average family of four spent £3,540 (US$5,770) for two weeks in the sun, once extras (£860) (US$1,402) and spending money of £1,360 (US$2,217) have been added to the estimated average cost of a two-week holiday of £1,320 (US$2,152).
The research reveals that over 50% of UK tourists always find our holidays costing more than expected and 70% run low on money as a result when travelling.
