Study: Almost half of parents can't be bothered with holidays due to the stress of taking their kids
According to a new survey by ferry operator DFDS, 44% of UK parents think holidays with children are not work the effort. On average, families with young kids take four holidays a year, with two of those being abroad, although that could be on the verge of changing as many say they are at their tipping point.
Keeping kids entertained (46%), keeping everyone happy (36%), the worry of children disrupting fellow passengers/travellers (26%), having to have snacks and drinks prepared (16%), and sitting together when travelling (15%) are the biggest issues for parents travelling with children.
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Hide AdWhat is more, 37% said that airport queues and the confined space on board an aircraft create unnecessary stress at the beginning of a family holiday, possibly leading to the fall-outs between the 26% of parents who say they have an argument with their other half before a holiday has even kicked off. Tellingly, 31% say they love a holiday, but hate the travel involved.
“I’m passionate about exposing my children to the world around them, and while adults tend to treat the travel element more of a getting from A to B," said Katy Hill, TV Presenter and mother of two. "For kids, it’s often a massive highlight of the trip which shouldn’t be under-estimated!”
Steve Newbery, On Board Commercial Director at DFDS and parent of two children under the age of 10, added: “A holiday should really begin from the start of the journey, when bags are packed, and the front door locked."