Nearly three-quarters of British holidaymakers plan to spend at least as much on their main holiday this year as they did last year despite the recession.
A YouGov poll conducted on behalf of Carnival UK for its Cruise Report 2009, showed 72% would spend at least as much as last year, while 78% of 45 to 54-year-olds plan to spend as much, if not more. This contrasts with 37% of 18 to 24-year-olds, who expect to spend less this year.
In total, 29% of respondents said they would spend more and 22% expect to spend less.
In terms of day-to-day spending, only buying quality food (33%) and putting aside funds for savings and investments (27%) came ahead of saving to go on holiday (25%). But cutting back on second holidays and weekend breaks was highlighted by 29% as a way to ensure they could go on a main holiday.
When booking a main break, holidaymakers said value was the most important factor, followed by experience of a holiday company. A recommendation is twice as important as an online review and only 1% book because of a company’s green credentials.