Nearly All Brits Struggle to Unplug on Holiday, New Survey Finds
New research from travel insurance provider InsureandGo reveals that nearly every British holidaymaker finds it difficult to put down their phone—even while trying to relax. According to the survey, 98% of UK adults admit to using their phones on holiday, with many checking messages, social media, bank accounts, and even work emails from their sun-loungers.
Phones Follow Travelers Everywhere
The survey, conducted among 2,000 UK adults, paints a clear picture: smartphones have become nearly impossible to ignore. A quarter of respondents said they couldn’t go more than two hours without checking their phone. For 5%, the window is less than 30 minutes. Only 18% said they could go a full day without reaching for their device.
Top Reasons for Staying Glued to the Screen
The top reasons people gave for using their phones on holiday ranged from staying connected with loved ones to keeping up with the news. Here’s how usage breaks down:
Most Common Uses While Abroad:
– Reading messages from friends – 47% – Scrolling through social media – 38% – Checking the local weather – 36% – Using travel maps – 30% – Monitoring bank balances – 28% – Checking on kids or parents – 26% – Listening to music – 26% – Reading the news – 22% – Following football scores – 21% – Reading work emails – 15%
Garry Nelson, Head of Corporate Affairs at InsureandGo, noted that while phones are helpful, they often get in the way of rest. “We all fall into the trap of checking in,” he said. “But the value of truly switching off during a holiday shouldn’t be overlooked.”
People Want to Relax—but Can’t Disconnect
The findings come with an important contradiction. While 96% of respondents said health and wellbeing were top factors when choosing a holiday, nearly all of them stayed glued to their screens. The constant flow of alerts and notifications turns what should be a relaxing getaway into just another place to stay online.
Nelson suggested small changes can make a difference. Whether it’s choosing a more remote destination or simply trying a single day without the phone, travelers might see better benefits from their time off if they fully unplug.
What This Means for Holiday Planning
The survey highlights a growing challenge for anyone looking to disconnect. Technology continues to follow people across borders, into resorts, and onto beaches. Even the intention to rest is often interrupted by routine habits—scrolling, refreshing, checking in.
InsureandGo ties this conversation back to peace of mind. “If travelers know their trip is covered by comprehensive insurance, they’re more likely to relax and let go,” said Nelson. “The idea is to remove one more excuse to stay glued to the phone.”