A recent survey released by Compareholidaymoney.com in conjunction with FairFX, shows that a whopping 80% of world travellers and holidaymakers now confirm their travel arrangements online.

A further ninety per cent of those questioned said that they researched their holidays on the internet and compared trips before proceeding to the booking stage, and confirmed that offers on hotel accommodation and flights are the most important factors they considered when choosing a holiday destination.

It seems budget airlines have “paved the way for the online revolution”, and internet savvy travellers realise that web-based tour operators can offer better deals than the high-street due to reduced overheads and running costs, but booking flights direct may leave you without adequate protection such as that provided by ATOL (Air Travel Organisers Licence).

So does this mean the end of the high-street travel agent?  Well, only time will tell, but when you combine the convenience of online shopping with cut-price travel arrangements, it seems the popularity of internet shopping is only going to escalate.

Additional findings from the survey indicate that seventy per cent of holidaymakers spend in excess of £1500 on their annual holiday, and more than 30% splash out over £2500, making their holiday the most expensive purchase they make online.

£500 – £1000 is the most common amount of spending money the average family budget for, although 14% admitted that they usually overspend on while away.

The great news is that nine out of ten travellers take out travel insurance to cover their holidays abroad, and that many take advantage of the free holiday insurance policies offered by credit card issuers and banks (a great marketing tool!).

Do you book your travel arrangements online?  We would love to hear your opinions and experiences, so drop us a line and let us know!