A long wait

 A study of 2,000 adults found they take an average of just three breaks that last a week or more each year, and only have four day trips booked into the diary for the next 12 months.

 But 46 per cent admit they go too long without any rest, and 49 per cent often find they are completely exhausted by the time their scheduled break does come around.

 As a result, 49 per cent would like to go away more than they currently do, but 29 per cent can’t afford to.

 Finding it too much hard work with kids and saving their annual leave for emergencies were also cited as reasons why people don’t travel as much as they’d like.

 Simon Thompson, managing director of Warner Hotels which commissioned the research, said: “People live such busy lives, and it can be hard to fit a break into a hectic schedule.

 “We find that many guests prefer regular shorter breaks over longer getaways, as it gives them flexibility to juggle their commitments and more opportunity to relax and unwind throughout the year.”

 But the study also found that if there was nothing stopping them from going away more often, 24 per cent would book six holidays within the space of a year – double the amount they take now.

 In the longer versus shorter break debate, 49 per cent prefer the latter as it makes them feel refreshed and relaxed when returning to reality.

 And 48 per cent find they are booking more short trips as opposed to longer ones the older they get.

 It also emerged four in 10 are encouraged by their kids to take time off to go on holiday, while for 47 per cent it’s their other half.

 But a third claim they themselves make sure to allow themselves enough time for breaks throughout the year.

 For those who like forward planning, nearly a fifth (19 per cent) have already booked three trips for next year, with the average adult waiting just under three months before committing to their next holiday.

 The study also found 34 per cent typically plan all their holidays for the year in one go and encouragingly, four in 10 plan to book more trips away in the future than they currently do.

 Simon Thompson added: “Shorter trips are becoming increasingly popular, and they also mean you can get away more often, avoiding the hassle and logistics involved in planning a longer holiday.

 “While many people may prioritise a long summer getaway, taking a short break later in the year can leave you energised and positive about getting back to reality.”