Holidays in the sun don't come cheap

0 Comments | Scotsman (Edinburgh, Scotland), The, August 5, 2006

Byline: Alistair McArthur

BRITONS fork out an average of more than GBP 800 each while on holiday after spending almost GBP 120 each before they leave.

American Express Insurance Services found that, once the holiday starts, so does the spending. Overall, the average for food and drink, shopping, gifts, excursions and entertainment was GBP 828.69. But before going away, cash totalling GBP 119.59 is spent on essentials such as guide books and maps, a course on a sun bed to start the tan, a haircut and - the biggest expense - new clothes.

For many travellers, cash is still the preferred choice, even though debit and credit cards can now be widely used abroad. But, for those with cash, the survey revealed some alarming results.

For those taking a week's break, 37 per cent took more than GBP 250 in cash. The figure rose to more than 60 per cent when a two-week break was taken. However, the majority of travel insurance policies will cover travellers for loss or theft of cash of up to GBP 250.

Marketing manager Joanne Field said: "Few people would carry such large sums of cash with them in the UK, so it is surprising so many risk their cash when they travel abroad."