A survey by comparison site Tiger.co.uk has identified the most annoying behaviours British holidaymakers encounter at resorts, with littering topping the list ahead of sunbed hogging.
The travel insurance team surveyed 1,000 people, finding that 84% of travellers are “irritated” by other guests’ behaviour when staying at resorts.
Littering leads the list
Leaving litter and not tidying up after themselves annoyed 25% of respondents, making it the most common irritation. Saving sunbeds with towels while not using them came second, with 18% of holidaymakers finding this behaviour annoying.
In third place, 17% of people said they were irritated by others using bad language around the pool when children are present.
Other irritating behaviours
Smoking or vaping close to others on the beach annoyed 10% of respondents. Playing loud music on the beach, putting feet in water fountains, ignoring local rules and customs, and wearing swimwear in towns or away from the pool each irritated 3% of those surveyed. Drinking in the pool and going barefoot into toilet blocks each annoyed 2%, while having loud arguments annoyed 1%.
A very chilled 3% of respondents said other holidaymakers did not annoy them. Half of those surveyed admitted they check reviews left by previous holidaymakers to see if they mention the behaviours they dislike.
Expert comment on holiday tensions
Ian Wilson, managing director at Tiger.co.uk, said: “For many, summer holidays are one of the best parts of the whole year, a chance to relax and soak up some sun. However, it can be hard to unwind if the habits of others are proving stressful. Overtourism issues in certain areas are also adding pressure, with overcrowding, littering and increased tensions with local people. Many authorities are clamping down on unfavourable behaviours, with new rules and penalties in place to help protect the local environment and support their communities.”
Wilson added: “Choosing the right style of holiday is key, from family friendly to adult only hotels, as travel insurance is unlikely to support a change of location unless the hotel becomes inhabitable for unexpected reasons such as a medical emergency, a natural disaster or an act of terrorism.”
