Brits 'need to control holiday spending'

Increasing numbers of Britons are falling into debt by spending too much while on holiday, it has been claimed.

Research from charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) shows that more than half of UK holidaymakers have had troubles with their finances after a break.

The UK was voted the most expensive holiday destination, while Spain was thought to be the cheapest, according to the poll.

CAP said that those looking to be savvier when it comes to holiday finances should plan ahead by dividing their annual budget into 12 and working out how much to save for a holiday every month.

Sticking to a budget, using the internet to search for cheap flights and accommodation and buying holiday essentials like sun cream in the winter when prices are lower can also make a significant difference, the charity stated.

"With a little planning and putting money aside each week, we can afford to go away without the worry that our vacation will push us over the tipping point financially," remarked Matt Barlow, UK chief executive of CAP.

Recent research by American Express suggested that one-third of Britons are choosing to go without certain luxuries rather than forgo their annual holiday as finances become increasingly squeezed by rising prices and the credit crunch.

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