Online booking cheaper option

Less than 18% of people like to use a travel agent to book their holidays, according to a new survey. The majority of holidaymakers preferring to take advantage of online savings and book online.

The largest majority prefer to book direct online (62%), with just 18.3% going through a travel agency. This means those booking online are saving in excess of 12% on the cost of their holiday.

The study, based on 1,005 adults across the UK, found that almost a quarter (24.7%) dedicate more than 12 hours doing research and finding out more about the places they are going to visit, while 21% usually spend between 2 and 4 hours, and just 5.9% less than an hour.

About one third of Britons book their holidays from three to six months in advance, while 20% opt to take advanteage of last minute holiday offers, or book just a couple of weeks before leaving (3.5%).

The poll, conducted by Cheaperholidays Surveys into Britons’ holiday habits, also found that the large majority of UK residents take from one to two leisure trips abroad a year (58.5%). The main reasons preventing them from travelling abroad more often are money (55.8%), lack of time (12.3%) and work commitments (11.3%).

Relaxation and sun came out on top as the top priorities followed by sightseeing, comfort and cuisine (56%, 44.8% and 33.2%).

Adventure and nightlife are the priorities of only 21.3% and 16.8%. More than 14% go on holiday looking for life changing experiences.

Seaside resorts proved to be the most sought after destinations as, if they had the opportunity, 23% of respondents would like to lie on a beach in Bermuda and 15.6% would love to sail in the Greek Islands.

Shopping in New York represents a tempting alternative for 13.9%.