One in two Brits (46%) are unaware of the new travel regulations coming into effect in 2024 for British citizens travelling to Europe, with 24% of respondents only somewhat aware, new research from Compare the Market finds.

The European Union’s new travel regulations, due to start in October this year, will require British travellers to submit fingerprints and facial biometrics when travelling to Europe – potentially increasing the processing time at ports, rail terminals and airports. This is being implemented to make border checks faster.

Although this change won’t come into effect until later this year, few people are planning to travel abroad this Easter before the new rules come into force. Just 16% of Brits are planning to travel abroad for the Easter holidays, compared to 18% who are going on holiday somewhere in the UK.

The main reasons for those not planning to travel over the upcoming holiday include they simply don’t want to (40%), they can’t afford it due to the rising cost of living (29%) or they can’t afford it due to the increased prices of flights and accommodation (21%).

Of those travelling over Easter, one in three people (35%) said they have no concerns ahead of their travel plans. However, one quarter of respondents (25%) said they worry about the affordability of their upcoming holiday and one in five people (21%) said they worry about various travel restrictions or disruptions.

Those travelling over the Easter break within the UK, plan to go on a countryside holiday (43%) or on a city break (38%) . Those heading to Europe for the break, plan to visit a beach (30%) or a city destination (22%). Over half of respondents (55%) said they have no plans to go on an adventure or activity holiday that might include backpacking, skiing etc.

On average, Brits paid £26 for their travel insurance policy over the Easter break, with the most common policy priced between £15 – £20. A significant 38% of travellers have not taken out a travel insurance policy for their Easter holidays.

Helen Phipps, Director at Compare the Market, commented:“Of the many financial concerns on the minds of many families making travel plans for the year ahead, they must now also consider the EU’s new travel regulations that may impact the ease of their upcoming holidays. This research shows the cost of holidays and travel disruptions are already concerns for Brits when considering their travel plans, and it is important that people stay aware and informed of any additional hurdles down the road.

“It is encouraging to see Brits returning to their usual holidays in the UK and Europe. It’s important that people understand the value of travel insurance policies and its ability to financially protect you against various types of disruption and shield you from unforeseen circumstances that may lead to unnecessary costs. Travellers can shop around on comparison websites to view a range of comprehensive policies.”