Walking along sandy beaches and exploring a completely different culture is a perfect way to escape the realities of home.
Despite jetting off abroad to get away from the troubles in their lives – from work to family drama – many Brits struggle to turn off their phone on holiday.
Most UK holidaymakers, 88 per cent, say they want to switch off their mobile while away – intending to disconnect from the world.
Many want to relax and unwind during their breaks – with 77 per cent saying this is the reason they go away.
Despite this, only 8 per cent of Brits manage to turn off their phones and 46 per cent consider phone-free activities to be ‘extreme’.
To make matters worse, a shocking 27 per cent admit they spend more than two hours a day on their device while travelling.
Plenty of Brits spend time flicking through social media and consuming content online even when abroad.
A third express feeling guilty about spending so much time scrolling on their phone.
Most UK holidaymakers, 88 per cent, say they want to switch off their mobile while away – intending to disconnect from the world
Even though many Brits can’t put their devices down during their holidays, 16 per cent say being away from their phone would help them feel truly restored, according to research by social travel company Flash Pack.
Despite the desire for relaxing trips, wellness breaks in general don’t quite hit the mark for some Brits.
Retreats feel repetitive or uninspiring for 26 per cent, while 37 per cent of UK travellers aren’t considering spa or wilderness-style wellness breaks.
Instead, many crave adventure (28 per cent) and new experiences (49 per cent) during their travels.
Lee Thompson, co-founder of Flash Pack, describes how mobile phone use is a huge source of stress for Brits.
He says, ‘We know that Brits aren’t feeling restored by traditional wellness getaways anymore.
‘Constant phone use is a major source of stress, and spa-led retreats often fail to deliver meaningful connection or long-term mental reset.
‘People are looking for something more engaging, social, and relevant to their lives.’
Despite this, only 8 per cent of Brits manage to turn off their phones and 46 per cent consider phone-free activities to be ‘extreme’
Phone use is becoming an issue for younger generations, too.
Fiona Eastwood, the head of theme park giant Merlin Entertainments, revealed last year how their ‘biggest competition’ is people opting to stay at home on phones and devices instead of visiting their parks.
She said spending a day at one of Merlin’s UK attractions – including Legoland, Thorpe Park and Alton Towers – was the ‘perfect antidote’ for screen time.
But many young people are choosing to stay glued to devices instead.
One in two teens feels addicted to their smartphones and the majority of parents (60 per cent) feel their kids are addicted, according to Common Sense Media.
