Almost one in three UK holidaymakers (30%)1 say they have started choosing cooler destinations, dubbed ‘coolcations’, to avoid extreme heat.
New research1 from travel insurance provider Multitrip.com finds that, despite ongoing pressure on household budgets, holidays remain a top priority for many, with more than half (56%) saying they are among the last things they would cut back on.
The Opinium survey of 1,016 UK holidaymakers1 finds that nearly two thirds (64%) plan to take as many holidays in 2026 as they usually would, while 43% say they are cutting back in other areas to make trips possible.
Cost-conscious travellers are also changing their booking habits, with more than half (55%) planning to travel during cheaper or off-peak periods.
Christian Bennett from Multitrip.com said: “Holidays remain hugely important to UK travellers, even when budgets are under pressure. Our research suggests many holidaymakers are looking for trips that offer better value and greater comfort, with cooler destinations and off-peak travel becoming more appealing.’’
“But whatever kind of trip people are planning, it’s important to make sure they protect it properly. Buying insurance as soon as you book - or ‘ASAB’ - means you’re covered for more than just the time you’re away including if something goes wrong before you travel2.”
Analysis by Multitrip.com found that more than half (53%)3 of single trip customers buy their insurance less than seven days before departure, potentially missing out on cancellation cover if something goes wrong before they travel.
This matters because more than a quarter (28%)4 of claims are for cancellation, often due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances.
For those taking more than one trip a year, annual travel insurance can offer better value and convenience. Multitrip.com’s annual policies start from £19.995 and offer three levels of cover, alongside optional add-ons such as gadget, disruption, cruise and winter sport cover, allowing travellers to tailor protection to their needs.
Other resources
- Opinium online survey conducted with 2,000 nationally representative UK adults from 24-27 Feb 2026, of which over 1,016 holiday abroad at least once a year.
- T&Cs apply. 7-day moratorium period applies from the policy start date cancellation cover is unavailable for trips departing/booked within 7 days.
- Based on an analysis of Multitrip.com single trip direct policies sold from 1 January 2025 to 16 December 2025
- Multitrip.com analysed its claims from UK customers between October 2024 to October 2025 and found that 28% were for cancellation.
- £19.99. Online price for Essential European Cover for person under 40 years. Price excludes £3.95 handling fee.
