Almost half of people would rather pay for on a winter holiday than Christmas presents, according to a new poll.
The average person plans to spend £1,260 each on Christmas this year, including £360 on presents.
However, they would spend a similar amount – £1,345 – on a winter getaway, the study of 2,000 people found.
After presents, the biggest costs over Christmas were found to be food (£180), travel (£179), drink (£113) and decorations (£86).
British Airways, which commissioned the survey, found that 28% of respondents would rather give holidays as presents rather than objects, believing they create more lasting memories.
A quarter have no idea what they received for Christmas last year – and 40% can only remember some gifts they received.
The stress of the festive season is such that 65% say they need a holiday to get over the Christmas break.
Almost half (47%) said they go on holiday if they could get out of the obligatory Christmas visit to families and friends and 54% say they need a holiday during the Christmas break itself.
Claire Bentley, managing director of British Airways Holidays, said: “While Christmas is traditionally a time of giving and receiving, it is also important to make it as memorable a time as possible.
“While traditionally we like to gift objects, we are increasingly beginning to value the gift of quality time with those who matter most.
“A holiday is the perfect time to share memories with those that are closest to you – and what better time to go away than when Britain is shivering under wintry skies?”
Average Christmas spending per person
1. Presents – £360
2. Food – £180
3. Travel – £179
4. New clothes – £118
5. Drinks – £113
6. Dining out – £112
7. Miscellaneous – £111
8. Decorations £86