With the Queen opening Heathrow’s Terminal 2 refurbishment yesterday, new research has revealed we are a nation of forgetful travellers.
The survey shows that more than half of Brits admit to forgetting holiday essentials before heading off on summer holiday with 2/3 of them being forced into airport shopping as a result.
The report by exchange company Travelex shows that women are the worst culprits when it comes to leaving things behind, with 58% forgetting holiday essentials. However, once at the airport, men are more likely to splash out on holiday goods, with an average spend of £43.84, compared to women who surprisingly only spend £35.19.
Survey results revealed that over 2/3 of forgetful holidaymakers admitted to relying on airport shops for their holiday essentials. Nearly a fifth of people admit to deliberately setting off early from home to account for last-minute airport shopping time.
Perfume tops the list of airport purchases with 40% of people revealing they choose their scent before flying, with books coming in second – a third of people grab a holiday read whilst waiting for their flight. An image-conscious 15% of people buy makeup at the airport.
Almost one in ten of over 35 year-olds admitted to forgetting to pack their passport before heading to the airport, while only one in 50 travellers aged 18-24 forget theirs.
Top 5 airport purchases |
1. Perfume – 40% 2. Books – 30% 3. Sun cream – 20% 4. Makeup – 15% 5. Currency – 14% |
Women’s top 5 airport purchases |
Men’s top 5 airport purchases |
1. Toothpaste – 31% 2. Shampoo – 27% 3. Phone Charger – 26% 4. Sun cream – 25% 5. Make-up – 19% |
1. Phone charger – 33% 2. Sun cream – 26% 3. Shampoo – 25% 4. Toothpaste – 24% 5. Swimwear – 17% |