More consumers set to travel abroad in 2025 as expectations for 'Sunshine Saturday' mount

• Over 40% of consumers plan to take a longer holiday overseas next year;
• Almost a third of consumers plan to take a weekend away abroad in 2025;
• Only 15% of consumers plan to cut back on holidays next year.

More consumers are set to travel both at home and abroad as demand for an overseas break hits a three year high, according to RSM UK’s latest Consumer Outlook*.

A survey of 2,000 consumers conducted on behalf of RSM UK showed that 41% of consumers plan to take an overseas holiday for longer than five days in 2025 – up from 35% last year. While demand for a weekend overseas trip looks set to jump with almost a third (30%) of consumers planning a short break, up from 24%.

The staycation market also looks set for a boost as 28% of consumers plan a long-stay holiday in the UK, up from 25% last year and a third of consumers (33%) are planning a weekend away in 2025.

Only 15% of consumers plan on taking no holidays next year, down from 19% - demonstrating that travel will be a top priority for many in 2025.

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.”

*The research was carried out by 3Gem on behalf of RSM UK. Data was collected from 2,000 UK consumers over the age of 18, between 25 September and 2 October 2024.