Demand for outbound travel – particularly packages – is set to increase in 2025 as holidays "remain a priority for many", according to consultancy RSM UK.
Four in 10 consumers (41%) plan to take an overseas holiday of at least five days next year, up from 35% last year, RSM UK’s latest Consumer Outlook survey reveals.
Just shy of a third (30%), meanwhile, are looking at an overseas weekend trip, up from less than a quarter (24%) last year).
RSM also predicts strong demand for UK long-stays, a priority for 28% of respondents to its survey, up from 25% last year. A third (33%) are also planning a weekend away in the new year.
Only 15% of the 2,000 survey respondents said they weren’t planning to take a holiday in 2025, down from 19% a year earlier.
Chris Tate, head of travel at RSM UK, said: “Holidays remain a priority for many and demand in 2025 looks set to increase with more holidaymakers planning longer overseas holidays and short breaks.
"The bad weather throughout 2024 could be a key driver as consumers seek some sunshine, but even the staycation market is in for a boost.
"Travel and tour operators will be hoping for an uptick in year-on-year booking for Sunshine Saturday in January as demand heats up. Real wages continue to rise, and with interest rates starting to fall, pressure on household finances is beginning to ease.
"Consumers are cautiously optimistic but will still be on the lookout for a bargain so we may see another increase in package holidays to help consumers manage costs and budget effectively."
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