Exact amount sunseekers pay per degree for family summer holidays to Spain

18 June 2024 , 10:20

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A study has revealed that the cost of a family holiday increases by up to £96 for every additional degree of heat in Spain (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

A study has revealed that the cost of a family holiday increases by up to £96 for every additional degree of heat in Spain.

The research was aimed at helping families manage their expenses by calculating how much the price of various holiday destinations rise as the weather gets warmer during peak season.

For instance, a week-long trip in May for two adults and two teenagers from London to Benidorm, Spain, when the temperature is 22C, will cost a family £803. However, this price escalates to £1,570 in August when the temperature reaches 30C - an increase of £96 per extra degree.

By choosing to travel outside of peak weather periods, families could save an average of £235 per degree lower in temperature across seven popular destinations. This saving could be used towards other aspects of the holiday such as children's activities, dining out or shopping.

A week-long holiday for a family of four in Florida costs £2,100 in May when the temperature typically reads 29C. But this nearly doubles to £4,043 in August, when average temperatures are just two degrees higher at 31C - an additional £972 per degree.

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Exact amount sunseekers pay per degree for family summer holidays to Spain

Holidaymakers heading to Spain can expect to pay an average of £96 more per degree, for their holiday (AFP via Getty Images)

The Post Office commissioned the research, which also found that trips to Cyprus for a family of four cost £737 for a milder 24C in May. However, this price increases to £1,272, or £89 per degree, for a week in 30C heat in July.

Greece offers a more economical choice for holidaymakers. A family can enjoy the August heat of 28C for approximately £1,793 but can soak up lesser heat at 23C in May for just £1,285.

According to a survey on 2,000 travellers, it appears that four out of 10 holiday planners are aiming to get their break 'out of season'. The main reasons that were listed are significant overall cost savings (58%), fewer tourists (51%), and quieter travel routes (37%). Furthermore, one in 10 (11%) travellers who have journeyed during off-peak times have saved over £400 due to this keen decision.

Laura Plunkett, the head of Post Office travel, which is launching its travel money card, expressed: "It's evident from our research that holidaymakers feel warm weather is an important part of the holiday experience, and so are the memories we make while away."

She added: "It can be increasingly difficult to budget for yearly holidays, especially for those travelling with children who are restricted to peak holiday prices due to the school holidays. However, there are savvy ways to save money on holiday."

"Our research has shown that families can still enjoy hot holidays at a better price point by considering October half term for travel." Continuing her advice, she said: "In fact, a holiday to Cyprus is £321 cheaper in October than August, and still a balmy 25C."

Laura concluded: "Families considering Florida could also save £406 in October, when it is 29C - just two degrees cooler than August."

According to the survey, a massive 77% of holidaymakers have saved cash by opting to fly mid-week and dodge those inflated weekend prices. Not surprisingly, 87% love to enjoy their breaks in warmer climes, because who doesn't love the sun?

It turns out 85% of us have either already jetted off or are planning to do so this year. Our favourite spots include Spain (31%), Italy (15%), France (14%) and Greece (14%). September is the most popular month for holidays (18%), beating even August (14%) despite it being in the middle of summer.

Yet, it's not all sunshine and sangria — sadly 44% of families feel squeezed out of holidaying during school breaks due to sky-high costs. Another 44% are seeking cheaper travel options.

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In research carried out by OnePoll, it was revealed that an average Briton going abroad will cough up approximately £773 for a week-long trip in a nice, warm 25C country.

Laura commented: "People put a lot of time and effort into making sure they get a great deal on their flights and accommodation, and booking out of season can be a smart way to maximise your holiday experience within your budget."

"However, timely booking is just one way that holidaymakers can save money," she added. "It's important to think carefully about how to get the most out of your spending money as well, which can often be left until the last minute, leaving you exposed to poor rates or unexpected card fees."

"Keeping an eye on exchange rates and getting your travel money or a pre-paid card when rates are good is another way to maximise the holiday budget," she concluded.

The additional costs per degree, per location for a family of four — based on a seven-day holiday: