Hard-working Brits are booking an average of three holidays a year that last a week or longer – but admit they are completely exhausted by the time these breaks come around.
The typical wait time between these holidays clocks in at four months – which is too long to go without having a proper rest, according to 46% of 2,000 adults polled.
Nearly half (49%) feel completely exhausted by the time their getaway does come around, with the same number saying they would like to go away more than they currently do.
But three in ten (29%) can't afford it – and have only managed to book in four day trips over the next 12 months.
Finding it too much like hard work with kids, and saving their annual leave for emergencies, were also cited as reasons why people don’t travel as much as they’d like.
Simon Thompson, from Warner Hotels, which commissioned the research, said: “People live such busy lives, and it can be hard to fit a break into a hectic schedule.
“We are starting to find that people prefer regular shorter breaks over longer getaways, as it gives them flexibility to juggle their commitments and more opportunity to relax and unwind throughout the year.”
The study also found that if there was nothing stopping them from going away more often, one in four (24%) would book six holidays within the space of a year – double the amount they take now.
In the longer versus shorter break debate, half of respondents (49%) prefer the latter, as it makes them feel refreshed and relaxed when returning to reality.
And 48% find they are booking more short trips as opposed to longer ones the older they get.
It also emerged four in ten are encouraged by their kids to take time off to go on holiday, while for 47% it’s their other half that motivates them.
But a third claim that they themselves make sure to allow themselves enough time for breaks throughout the year.
For those who like forward planning, one in five (19%) have already booked three trips for next year, with the average adult waiting just under three months before committing to their next holiday.
The OnePoll study also found 34% typically plan all their holidays for the year in one go – and, encouragingly, four in ten plan to book more trips in the future than they currently do.
Simon Thompson added: “Shorter trips are becoming increasingly popular and they also mean you can get away more often – avoiding the hassle and logistics involved in planning a longer holiday.
“While many people may prioritise a long summer getaway, taking a short break later in the year can leave you energised and positive about getting back to reality.”
