BRITS’ HOLIDAY TREAT BILLIONS

Spending frenzy as we splash out on extra goodies ahead of big summer getaway

TOURISTS spend a huge £28billion each year on their pre-holiday buys. One study has revealed Brits spend an average of £273 before they have even left their front door.

The survey by American Express shows people stock up on items from gadgets to games.

Brits take an average of two holidays a year, either abroad or in the UK, equating to an average £546 spent on holiday preparations – more than the average UK weekly wage.

Holidaymakers spend most on looking the part for their trip, laying out £69 on clothing, shoes and accessories. This is followed by purchases of toys to keep the children occupied (£36), and then make-up (£33).

More than two-thirds of holidaymakers start buying treats a month before they leave for their trip.

Popular items include clothes, magazines and snacks. And one in five buy their loved ones or themselves a treat to celebrate the start of a trip.

Almost three-quarters of Brits say they have had to repurchase an item because they left it at home in their pre-holiday rush.

A total of £437million is spent each year on duplicate buys, at an average cost of £12 per trip.

Top Tips To Save Some Cash

Planning: If you are organising a holiday several months ahead, make a list of all the practical items you need and buy them early. After all, we usually book flights or train tickets in advance, so there’s no reason why you can’t gradually build up your holiday supplies, while having time to shop for bargains in the sales.

Ask for holiday contributions: If your birthday is before, during or even after a holiday, ask family and friends to contribute towards items for your trip, such as clothes, travel guides or headphones.

Don’t leave packing to the last minute: Doing it at least two days before your departure means you are less likely to forget those essentials. Even if you are departing late in the day, travel schedules can always change so it pays to be organised in case the plan changes.

Don’t panic: If you forget something, remember that it’s likely you will be able to buy the item on your travels, or borrow from one of your companions.

Points make presents: Check how many reward points you have on your credit, charge or store card. You may have enough to treat yourself at the airport or while you are away on your break.