Holidays remain households’ top spending priority: Insights from our 2025 Travel Tracker

We’re pleased to share the results of our latest Travel Tracker survey, which reveal that holidays are the top spending priority for UK households. The findings, featured in this week’s Independent, highlight just how much value people continue to place on travel.

Travel is the number one household priority

Nearly half (46%) of respondents said travel tops their discretionary spend, ahead of clothing, shoes and accessories (35%), dining out (33%), home and garden renovations (32%) and leisure activities (25%). Even “disciplined” savers told us the same, with almost two in five (39%) admitting that holidays are the one expense they’ll always make room for.

The passion for travel doesn’t stop there. Almost three-quarters (71%) of people had taken a holiday in the past 12 months. A third (34%) expect to spend more on holidays this year, 56% will spend about the same, and just 9% plan to cut back. Looking further ahead, travel tops life ambitions too – 22% said their ultimate financial goal is to have enough money to travel the world, compared with only 7% who prioritised milestones such as weddings.

Customers are investing in unforgettable experiences

Our research also revealed how much people are willing to invest in their trips. While most typically spent between £501 and £1,000 on a single booking in the past year, those earning over £120,000 were prepared to spend between £9,501 and £10,000 on a single holiday – highlighting just how much value people place on creating unforgettable experiences.

Our research shows demand for travel is strong – and growing. People are placing huge value on the experiences that matter most to them, from luxury accommodation and rooftop bars to fine dining and meaningful souvenirs.

The time is now for travel entrepreneurs

At Travel Counsellors, we’re uniquely placed to meet this demand. Our high-touch, high-tech model combines the care and personal service of our global community of trusted business owners with innovative technology that supports customers at every step of their journey. It’s this combination that allows us to deliver the seamless, tailored experiences travellers are looking for.

With holidays firmly at the top of people’s spending priorities, there has never been a better time to build a rewarding business in travel. Want to find out how we could help you launch your own travel franchise? Register for one of our relaxed Discovery Days to learn more.