As travel continues to evolve, new research by Discover Ferries presents valuable insights for travel agents looking to cater to a shifting holidaymaker mindset—especially those prioritising both savings and sustainability.
The findings reveal that a staggering 82% of British holidaymakers purchase items they could easily bring from home, spending an average of £59.86 per trip. For some, this overspending reaches as high as £1,500 per trip. These purchases often include food, bottled water, toiletries, and suncream—basic items travellers may not realise they could avoid buying with a bit of preparation.
Interestingly, ferry travel emerges as the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly mode of transport, offering significant potential for UK travel agents. Passengers travelling by ferry are the least likely to make unnecessary purchases, with only 33% admitting to spending on items they could have packed. This is in stark contrast to those travelling by plane (53%), train (43%), or coach (36%), which highlights ferry travel’s appeal for cost-conscious travellers. For agents, promoting ferry travel can directly address the growing concern of overspending, especially as ferry passengers benefit from generous luggage allowances and the ability to bring their own items—including food, toiletries, and even oversized beach toys like pool inflatables—without the restrictions seen in air travel.
Furthermore, with sustainability on the rise, ferry travel provides a greener option for eco-conscious customers. The study shows that a significant portion of holidaymakers (71%) leave behind or throw away items like pool inflatables due to luggage limits. Not only does this contribute to environmental waste, but it also results in unnecessary spending. In contrast, ferry passengers can transport these bulky items with ease, reducing waste and even recycling on return journeys.
Additionally, with the option to carry liquids without restrictions, ferry travel offers travellers the ability to bring their own water, toiletries, and suncream, saving money and minimizing waste. UK travel agents can encourage clients to pack smarter, offering practical tips on how to save on holiday costs while being mindful of their environmental footprint.
Finally, Discover Ferries highlights that ferry travel offers unique environmental benefits, such as supporting whale and dolphin conservation efforts through ORCA Ocean Conservationists onboard. This adds an appealing element for environmentally conscious travellers, making it an attractive option for agents promoting sustainable holidays.
For travel agents, this research underscores an important opportunity to tap into a niche market of budget-savvy and eco-conscious travellers, especially by promoting ferry routes as the ideal solution to their holiday packing dilemmas. With the chance to save money, avoid unnecessary purchases, and contribute to sustainability, ferry travel should be a key recommendation for clients looking for smarter, greener holiday experiences.
