As the conflict in the Middle East continues to disrupt global fuel supplies, UK holidaymakers are facing soaring costs at the pumps. According to recent RAC data, the average price of unleaded petrol has risen to 158.52p per litre, the highest since the war began, and could soon reach 160p. This has become a major concern for families planning staycations, as fuel expenses now significantly impact summer holiday budgets.
Hoseasons Introduces Fuel Cover Policy
In response, Hoseasons, a leading UK holiday company operating over 750 parks across Cornwall, Norfolk, the Lake District, and the Scottish Highlands, has launched a new Fuel Cover policy. Customers who book between May 20 and August 30 can claim up to £75 towards their travel costs. Bookings must be made by phone using the code ‘FUEL75’, with getaways scheduled before September 30.
Simon Altham, chief operating officer of Hoseasons, stated: ‘We know rising travel costs are becoming a bigger consideration for many holidaymakers this summer. Fuel, in particular, can quickly add to the overall cost of a trip, especially for families travelling during peak holiday periods. That’s why we wanted to help ease some of that pressure and support people continuing to take the UK breaks they were already planning.’
Research Highlights Impact of Rising Costs
The policy launch coincides with new research commissioned by Hoseasons, which found that 15.4 million Brits have altered their holiday plans this year due to rising costs. Of the 2,000 adults surveyed, nearly 60% cited hidden expenses like travel and fuel as deterrents, while 27% said they would travel shorter distances for a UK-based getaway. Those driving expect to spend an average of £68 on fuel alone, prompting 28% of travellers to prefer domestic holidays over overseas trips, and 26% to reduce their overall budget.
Broader Travel Industry Challenges
The fuel crisis is also affecting airlines worldwide, with carriers cancelling routes and imposing extra charges due to soaring fuel prices driven by the war on Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The strait, which handles about 20% of global oil supply, has been blocked by Iran since February. Several airlines have reduced schedules, hiked fares, and increased baggage fees. One UK carrier, Ascend Airways, which operated from Gatwick and Stansted, has shut down entirely, cancelling all flights. British Airways’ parent company IAG warned that profits would be hit, expecting to spend €2 billion (£1.72 billion) more on fuel this year than planned.
Top Costs Putting Brits Off Summer Holidays
According to Hoseasons, the top ten expenses deterring Brits from summer holidays include general expenses, flights, eating out, food and drink, fuel, attraction tickets, airport parking, luggage fees, parking/tolls, and train fares.
