PEOPLE spend nearly £1,500 more on ‘milestone' trips for life events, such as big birthdays, than they do on regular holidays.
A recent poll of around 2,000 adults who travel, has found that 87 per cent have marked significant life moments, such as an anniversary or work achievement, by planning a trip away, spending as much as £2,650 on average, per person.
In fact, 51 per cent would be most likely to celebrate a big birthday with a trip away, with 64 per cent of these celebrating their 50th birthday in style.
Wedding anniversaries were the third most popular reason for a milestone trip, with 65 per cent saying they would choose a holiday over a traditional gift to of silver when marking their 25th year as a couple.
As well as wanting to mark these milestone life moments in a special way (55 per cent), many use it as an opportunity to spend quality time with loved ones (51 per cent) and to indulge in a bit of (36 per cent).
While 31 per cent use it as an opportunity to experience something new and exciting or finally tick a dream destination off their bucket list (24 per cent).
When it comes to splashing out on a milestone holiday, 61 per cent are willing to stretch their budget for luxury accommodation, and 46 per cent will fork out more for unforgettable dining experiences.
Nearly a quarter (24 per cent) will pay extra to upgrade their flights, with exactly one in 10 even spending extra on or videography to capture the moment.
For such momentous trips, on average, start saving 16 months in advance.
Paul Stokes, from M&S Credit Card, which commissioned the research, said: “Holidaymakers today are increasingly choosing to mark life’s big moments with experiences.
“A special getaway for that big birthday, graduation or work milestone, whether here in the UK or abroad, is a great way to do that and really make memories that last.”
Also in the study, it was revealed that milestone tend to be more thoughtfully planned – with 57 per cent spending more time organising the details compared to a standard getaway.
Two in three (64 per cent) commented that it is because they want the trip to feel extra special, while 46 per cent need time to carefully select the perfect destination.
A third (36 per cent) of respondents also said they will research thoroughly to ensure they enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences while away.
Whereas 24 per cent want more time to coordinate with loved ones joining them, and 23 per cent need to ensure the timing aligns perfectly with the occasion itself.
When it comes to what matters most on these milestone breaks, 33 per cent are seeking the chance to relax and unwind.
But 26 per cent prioritise beautiful destinations with cultural significance and one in five (19 per cent) look for an adventure or activity they’ll never forget.
And the popularity of milestone holidays shows no sign of slowing down, as 42 per cent are planning to go on a milestone holiday within the next five years.
More than half (55 per cent) have a big birthday on the horizon they want to celebrate with a special trip, while 13 per cent plan to jet off after completing a major life project.
Mr Stokes added: “It’s no surprise that holidaymakers are choosing to prioritise meaningful experiences and marking some of their key life moments with travel – and also spending more to do this.
“But it’s also great to know that they are taking the time to plan ahead when it comes to these milestone holidays, and putting real thought into creating that perfect trip.
“Often, planning for a holiday is an exciting time – and for some, just as exciting as the trip itself – but by taking the time to ensure that they’re well prepared, holidaymakers can ensure they’re making the most of their holiday budget, whilst enjoying what is often, a once in a lifetime trip away.”
