A place in the sun – whatever the cost

But most are determined to get away – whatever the expense, according to a survey by travel search site Skyscanner.

Of those intending to have a break during the next 12 months, 71 per cent plan to take more than one holiday, with 42 per cent hoping to go away at least three times.

But nearly 40 per cent accept they will spend more on their holiday in 2013 than they did in 2012.

During 2012, eight out of 10 paid for their last holiday with savings, while 20 per cent began to put money aside for their next trip as soon as they started unpacking from their last holiday.

However, despite the majority being conscientious savers, 59 per cent admitted to overspending on their holiday budget when they were away.

For those without holiday savings, 16 per cent paid for their last holiday with a loan or credit card, while 2 per cent asked friends or relatives to stump up their holiday funds.

Of those who borrowed money to finance a trip in the last 12 months, half of those were still to pay it back. The survey of 1,000 holidaymakers showed that having at least one annual holiday is an absolute essential for many, regardless of whether they can afford it or how long it takes to pay off.

As many of 58 per cent of those polled said they would find a way to get away, regardless of their financial situation.

Skyscanner’s Victoria Bailie said many people were looking to Eastern Europe for alternative good-value city breaks, while Croatia had proved popular over the past 12 months with sunseekers seeking an  alternative Mediterranean destination.