The overseas holiday market has continued to grow between 2000 and 2004, while domestic holidays have remained fairly static. In terms of expenditure both markets continued to increase at current prices, although in real terms the overseas market did experience a marginal decline in 2002.

The advent of the Internet together with holidaymakers growing in confidence has led to a dramatic change in the holiday distribution over the last decade. Travel agents remain the most popular method of booking a holiday, however, there has been a dramatic shift away from the high street shops towards direct bookings with tour operators as well as the Internet.

About the market…

The overseas holiday market has continued to grow between 2000 and 2004, while domestic holidays have remained fairly static. In terms of expenditure both markets continued to increase at current prices, although in real terms the overseas market did experience a marginal decline in 2002.

The advent of the Internet together with holidaymakers growing in confidence has led to a dramatic change in the holiday distribution over the last decade. Travel agents remain the most popular method of booking a holiday, however, there has been a dramatic shift away from the high street shops towards direct bookings with tour operators as well as the Internet.

The demand for more flexible and independent holidays has resulted in a growth in tailor-made holidays. This has lead to less distinction between the various distribution channels, as everyone must be a tour operator and a travel agent to maintain a share of the market.

About Mintel’s research…

Pooling together the most innovative consumer research and latest market analysis, Mintel's new report offers you all the insight and inspiration you need for designing clever, creative and profitable marketing strategies. Use Mintel's research to:

Understand the major market trends and drivers

Gather in-depth information about consumer target groups, including key demographics and media targeting information

Discover in-depth consumer information regarding preference for booking holidays

Pinpoint market potential before your competitors

Find out how to best reach key audiences with the most effective marketing communications

Measure market sizes and forecasts and build realistic business models

Gain insight into future trends

Spot new targeting opportunities.

Intriguing findings include…

47%of overseas holiday makers still use travel agents.

Airline websites have a low usage amongst 15-19-year-olds at 6%, which is perhaps due to their lack of a credit card as well as them preferring more hand holding for their first holidays abroad without their parents.

Retired respondents are far more likely than the other lifestages to book with a travel agent over the phone, at 15%