New research by Discover Ferries highlights a growing trend in travel preferences, offering valuable insights for travel agents aiming to meet the needs of modern holidaymakers. With an increasing focus on both cost savings and sustainability, ferry travel is emerging as a standout option for UK travellers.
The study reveals that 82% of British holidaymakers spend an average of £59.86 per trip on items they could easily bring from home, such as food, bottled water, toiletries, and suncream. For some, this overspending can reach up to £1,500 per trip. This trend underscores a significant opportunity for travel agents to guide clients toward more economical and eco-friendly travel choices.
Ferry travel, in particular, stands out as a cost-effective and sustainable mode of transport. Only 33% of ferry passengers admit to buying items they could have packed, compared to 53% of plane travellers, 43% of train passengers, and 36% of coach users. This makes ferry travel an attractive option for budget-conscious holidaymakers. Unlike air travel, ferries offer generous luggage allowances, allowing passengers to bring their own food, toiletries, and even oversized items like pool inflatables without restrictions.
Sustainability is another key advantage of ferry travel. The study found that 71% of holidaymakers leave behind or discard items like pool inflatables due to luggage limits, contributing to both environmental waste and unnecessary spending. Ferry travel eliminates this issue, enabling passengers to transport bulky items easily and even recycle them on return journeys. Additionally, the absence of liquid restrictions on ferries allows travellers to bring their own water, toiletries, and suncream, further reducing costs and waste.
For eco-conscious travellers, ferry travel offers unique environmental benefits. Many ferry operators partner with organizations like ORCA Ocean Conservationists to support whale and dolphin conservation efforts, adding an extra layer of appeal for those seeking sustainable holiday options.
Travel agents can leverage these insights to promote ferry travel as a smart, green alternative for their clients. By encouraging travellers to pack smarter and highlighting the cost-saving and environmental benefits of ferries, agents can tap into a growing market of budget-savvy, eco-conscious holidaymakers.
In summary, ferry travel presents a compelling opportunity for travel agents to address the dual priorities of saving money and reducing environmental impact. With its affordability, flexibility, and sustainability credentials, ferry travel is poised to become a key recommendation for clients seeking smarter, greener holiday experiences.
Related topics:
- Qantas Group Reports Strong H1 2025 Results: Fleet Renewal Boosts Shares by 11%
- Andrew Tate and Brother Arrive in U.S. After Romania Lifts Travel Ban
- Belgium’s AI Travel Software Provider Maya Secures €1M Funding for Global Expansion