We may be in the midst of a deep freeze, but chances are that many of us are busy researching our next holiday. On average, UK adults spend 3 and a half days, or 84 hours, researching what to do or where to visit on their upcoming getaway. With half (49%) starting to look for their next holiday as soon as they get back from their previous one according to new research by travel money provider, John Lewis Finance.

Planning a holiday can be just as enjoyable as the holiday itself according to the findings, with over half (51%) stating that the excitement of an upcoming holiday can sometimes be better than the holiday itself. And 83% believe that having a holiday to look forward to greatly improves their mental wellbeing.

The new research shines a light on the nation’s 2024 holiday plans, uncovering popular destinations for 2024 travel as well as lifting the lid on how planning a holiday makes us feel.

Top travel destinations for 2024

Despite the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, many of us are still trying to make sure that we get away, with almost three quarters of UK adults surveyed (71%) either already planning, or likely to go on a holiday in 2024.

Two in five (40%) plan to holiday in the UK, making it the most popular destination for 2024 getaways. Spain is the second most popular destination, with 21% planning to visit the country this year. France followed in third position with 13%.

Friends and family and travel agents are the most common sources of inspiration (41% and 27% of respondents, respectively). However, many UK adults also turn to social media for their holiday inspiration – with Instagram (26%), Facebook (24%) and TikTok (21%) being the most popular platforms.

Types of holiday

Beach holidays and city breaks are the most popular types of getaway, with 40% of UK adults planning a beach holiday and 39% heading on a city break. When it comes to accommodation, hotels are the most popular option (61% of respondents), compared to just 13% opting for an Airbnb or homestay.

Money matters

Seventy percent of UK adults always exchange foreign currency before traveling abroad for their holiday, with 79% finding that having local currency makes things more accessible while away. A third (33%) of UK adults have been caught short, unable to buy something while away as they didn’t have cash.

Matt Richardson at John Lewis Finance commented: “Whether it’s a short trip to somewhere in the UK, or a trip further afield, having a holiday to look forward to can make all the difference when it comes to boosting your mood in the winter months.

“With so many beautiful areas to explore right on our doorstep, it’s really positive to see the UK feature so prominently in holidaymakers’ travel plans this year.

“For those traveling further afield this year, we encourage all holiday makers to ensure that they don’t miss out on any incredible and authentic experiences such as dining or shopping in local markets by always carrying some local currency.”