More than 4 in 10 Brits fall out on holiday

As Brits jet off on winter sun getaways, new survey highlights our biggest holiday pet peeves, including airport queues, extra charges and baggage limits

 Despite annoyances, majority of us are already planning our next break

 28 November 2019 – As Brits jet off on winter sun getaways and skiing trips, 43% of holidaymakers will end up falling out with their family, friends or partner whilst they’re away, a new study shows.

The research, commissioned by popular currency exchange provider and financial services business Ramsdens, explores the nation’s biggest holiday pet peeves, ranging from airport annoyances to hotel bug bears.

It found that the holiday from hell starts in the airport – long queues at check-in and security is the top frustration for more than half (51%) of us. This was followed by airline baggage limits, which irritate 1 in 5 Brits, and having to walk miles to the departure gate (16%).

When holidaymakers hit the hotel, it seems as if the old cliché is true: for over a third (37%) of those surveyed, other guests getting up early and bagging sun loungers at the crack of dawn is their biggest annoyance. For more than a quarter (27%), extra hotel charges for the mini bar and WiFi hit a nerve, and a further quarter said their biggest bugbear is when the food or hotel doesn’t live up to expectations.

These small stresses lead to 43% of Brits falling out with their holiday companions, whether they be friends, family or a partner. 46% of these clashes are due to differing views on activities and restaurants, while 41% row over spending money. However, despite these tensions, nearly half (48%) of us are already planning our next break.

Peter Kenyon, CEO Ramsdens Currency, said: “Going on holiday is a chance to relax and recharge, but what we don’t think about is those small stresses like queues and the extra charges here and there. It’s especially a shame to see that 18% of all Brits fall out whilst away over spending too much money. There are a few things holidaymakers can do to mitigate this, including buying their currency before they jet off. We offer fantastic rates at our branches, meaning customers get the best bang for their buck and have more spending money to enjoy whilst they’re away.”

Ramsdens’ travel money is commission free, with rates checked daily to make sure customers get a great rate. The business is due to open its first airport branch at Teesside International Airport later this year, where it will offer the same commission-free great value exchange rates that customers would find on their local high street.