Brits want a holiday every 29 days

The average Brit feels like they need a holiday break just 29 days after they return from their last one, according to a new study.

Just over four weeks after a previous holiday or mini-break has been identified as the point where fatigue starts to set in, work performance starts to slide and people feel the need to get away from the daily grind once more.

Eating more comfort food than usual was named as the biggest sign people are in need of a break, along with being jealous at the sight of a friend’s holiday snaps, not being able to face a ‘to-do’ list and finding it difficult to make small talk with colleagues.

And those who don’t get regular breaks admit to feeling more stressed, being less productive and more likely to make mistakes at work.

But the study of 2,000 adults by Holiday Inn Express also found 60 per cent of Brits are now ditching flip flops for trainers and embarking on micro-adventures instead of boozy weekends in an attempt to make the most of their time off work.

Mike Greenup, vice president Brand Management, Holiday Inn Express, said: “Everyone knows getting away can be restorative and help counterbalance our busy work lives. But it’s interesting to see just how often people feel they need to be having a break to remain happy, productive and stress-free.

Adventure breaks

“We have noticed people are seeking out an increasing amount of adventure getaways and experiences that are affordable and easily achievable. Many are also looking to make the most of the UK and explore what is in their back yard rather than venturing too far afield.”

Forty-three per cent of people said not having regular breaks leaves them feeling more stressed, while four in ten feel more tired than usual.

Others say they make silly mistakes at work (13%), become less productive (31%) or feel less enthusiastic about work (36%).

But there is a shift in the type of breaks people are booking with many moving away from the stereotypical image of the boozy Brit abroad, with the top reasons for choosing a break away to explore the outdoors or complete a physical challenge.

Hiking is the most popular activity to do on a break, followed by cycling, water sports and sailing. One in 20 have even booked a break to coincide with an elite sporting event such as an iron man or triathlon.

The survey also revealed that nearly one in three (28%) want to focus on improving their overall health and wellbeing during minibreaks away, while less than 15% want a getaway indulging in food and booze.

And it’s not just the older generations who are embracing active getaways – 62% of 18 to 24-year-olds and 72% of Brits aged between 25 and 34 would prefer to embark on a micro-adventure.

Experiencing something new and feeling like they’ve accomplished something were ranked as the top two priorities when booking a trip away, while less than 5% view ‘relaxing with a good book’ as the best way to unwind when on holiday.

Top ten signs you need a break: