Families short of cash will do whatever it takes to take a holiday – even if that means flouting truancy laws, according to the boss of travel search site Skyscanner.
Gareth Williams was responding to a study from Santander which showed that the savings to be made travelling out of the peak holiday period are far greater than the potential fine, as reported yesterday by Travel Weekly.
Official figures from the Department for Children, Schools and Families reported that the “family holiday” was the second most common reason given for children missing school and a significant contributor to record truancy levels.
A Skyscanner poll of more 600 travellers shows that 70% would consider taking their children out of school in order to get a cheaper holiday, up from 61% last year.
Almost half of all respondents (49%) claimed it is the economic downturn that has made them more likely to take their children out of school in term time.
Williams said: “During the recession people want to save money wherever possible and the fines are not enough of a deterrent for families not to take their children out of school, with only 7% of users believing that rules should not be flouted.
“The reality is that many families are short on cash and will do whatever it takes to have their annual holiday.
“We recommend families looking to get a good deal during the summer break should be flexible in their choice of holiday destination, and also keep an eye out for various airline sales and children fly free promotions as there are bargains to be had.”