Total Cost of a Holiday in the UK
Planning a holiday? Understanding the full cost of a trip is essential to avoid overspending. From flights and accommodation to food, travel, and hidden extras, the total cost of a holiday in the UK can vary significantly.
This guide breaks down every major expense so you can budget with confidence.
QUICK ANSWER
The total cost of a holiday in the UK typically ranges from £300 to £1,200+ per person, depending on travel, accommodation, food, and additional expenses.
AVERAGE HOLIDAY COST BREAKDOWN
| Expense | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Travel (flights/transport) | £100 – £400 |
| Accommodation | £50 – £200 per night |
| Food & Drink | £20 – £60 per day |
| Activities | £20 – £100 |
| Extras | £50 – £200 |
👉 Estimated Total: £300 – £1,200+ per person
TRAVEL COSTS
Getting to your destination is often one of the biggest expenses.
- Domestic travel: £20 – £100
- Short-haul flights: £50 – £250
- Peak season travel: £150 – £400
👉 See full breakdown: Travel Costs in the UK (2026 Guide)
ACCOMMODATION COSTS
Where you stay will have a major impact on your total holiday cost.
- Budget hotels: £50 – £80 per night
- Mid-range hotels: £80 – £150 per night
- Luxury hotels: £150 – £300+ per night
- Airbnb: £60 – £200 per night
FOOD & DRINK COSTS
Eating out can quickly add up, especially in tourist areas.
- Budget meals: £10 – £15
- Mid-range restaurants: £15 – £30
- Drinks/snacks: £5 – £15
👉 Average daily spend: £20 – £60
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
Holiday activities are often overlooked in budgeting.
- Attractions: £10 – £30
- Tours/experiences: £30 – £100
- Family attractions: £50+
HIDDEN HOLIDAY COSTS
Many travellers underestimate these:
- Travel insurance
- Parking and transport
- Baggage fees
- Souvenirs
- Booking fees
👉 These can add £50 – £200+ to your trip
WHAT AFFECTS HOLIDAY COSTS?
- Time of year
- Location
- Booking time
- Travel method
- Accommodation type
COST OF A FAMILY HOLIDAY
Family holidays can significantly increase total costs.
- Family of 4 (budget): £800 – £1,500
- Mid-range: £1,500 – £3,000
- Peak season: £3,000+
HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR HOLIDAY
- Book early
- Travel off-peak
- Compare accommodation options
- Pack light
- Pre-book activities
EXAMPLE: COST OF A 3-DAY UK HOLIDAY
- Travel: £120
- Hotel (2 nights): £200
- Food: £90
- Activities: £60
👉 Total: £470 per person
REALISTIC HOLIDAY BUDGETS
Budget Trip
£300 – £500 per person
Mid-Range Holiday
£500 – £900 per person
Premium Holiday
£900 – £1,200+ per person
RELATED GUIDES
- Cost of a UK Staycation
- Cost of Holiday to Spain
- Cost of Airport Parking
- Cost of Flights in the UK
- Holiday Spending Money Guide
👉 See our full holiday cost breakdown here: Total Cost of a Holiday in the UK (2026 Guide)