More over-55s expected to take summer holidays abroad this summer

Increasing numbers of over-55s are set to go abroad on holiday this summer with cruising proving more popular despite cost of living worries, a new poll shows.

More than three in four UK adults (78%) are planning an overseas trip this year – up from 64% this time last year – and 41% in June 2021, according to a survey on behalf of AllClear Travel Insurance.

The research, conducted in June among an online panel of 2,080 adults, points to a significant rise year on year from 50% to 66% in the number of older people travelling this summer.

The popularity of cruise holidays doubled (from 5% to 10%) among over-55s and those planning beach holidays was up from 21% to 34%, with 20% planning city breaks and 19% ‘pool holidays’.

The survey found the appetite to travel among people with medical conditions has also risen in the last two years, from 37% to 69% – with beach (35%), pool (22%), city break (22%) and cruise (15%) holidays proving most popular.

Looking at the type of summer breaks people are planning this summer, the poll found year-on-year increases across the board. 

The popularity of beach holidays was up from 29% to 43% in 12 months, with villa holidays up from 8% to 14% and cruise from 6% to 11%. 

More people are also planning city breaks this summer (29% up from 17% last June). Romantic breaks have doubled in a year (from 6% to 12%) and camping or caravan holidays are up from 5% to 11%.

The study suggests the Mediterranean will be the top choice of holiday destination.

After only 12% planned to visit southern Europe in summer 2021, the Med is the holiday destination choice for 34% of would-be holidaymakers. 

The Caribbean has risen from the choice of 4% in June 2021 to that of 11% this June, with North America selected by 9% and Scandinavia also 9%.

AllClear chief executive Chris Rolland said: “Our new data reveals an emphatic bounce-back for the travel sector this summer.

“People want to get away and – while some may need to do it on a budget – the desire for a break is top of the priority list this summer.”