More than two million people remain undecided about taking a summer holiday but still may be tempted to book a last minute break.
The prediction comes from Abta consumer research out today (Wednesday) which shows that around 19% of the population will be heading away on holiday during the Olympic Games.
The recent bad weather affected holiday choices with 7% of those planning to go abroad citing it as their primary reason.
Only just over one in ten (11%) of those going away said they were intending to leave to avoid the Olympic hype and crowds.
More than half (59%) of the population say they are looking forward to the games, with 7% most looking forward to attending an event, 40% most looking forward to watching either at home, with friends or elsewhere, and one in ten most looking forward to the positive effect the Olympics will have on the general atmosphere around the country.
Almost one in five (18%) of 18-24 year olds say that the general feel-good factor is what they are most looking forward to.
But enthusiasm about the Games declines with age as 45% of those aged 55 and over say that they are not looking forward to the event at all. Those aged 18-24 are the most likely to be most looking forward to attending an event (13%), compared to only 2% of the over 55s.
Seven out of ten (70%) Londoners are looking forward to the Games, despite potential transport disruption. They are also most looking forward to attending an event (14%).
But interest wanes in Scotland with only half of people saying they are looking forward to the Games.
The results are based on a YouGov poll of 2,068 adults.
Abta head of communications Victoria Bacon said: “Our research clearly shows that most of us in the UK are really looking forward to the Olympics, whether we’ll be attending events, watching on TV or just soaking up the feel good atmosphere throughout the country.
“A lot of Britons are also taking a holiday whether that’s because they want some peace and quiet, some guaranteed sunshine or a well-earned break.
“Many people are also taking advantage of the strong pound and lower prices in the eurozone.
“Numbers are fairly consistent with past years showing that whilst some have chosen to forgo a summer holiday during the games, these have been balanced by those wanting to get away. ”