Downturn 'not deterring holidays'

Airline easyJet has reported increased bookings to skiing destinations

More than two in three Britons plan to spend the same amount or more on holidays this year as in 2008, despite the downturn, a survey suggests.

A poll for travel organisation Abta found average holiday spending in 2009 is likely to be £632.04 per person.

It said 8% of the 2,447 adults surveyed were prepared to spend above £1,200 on a holiday.

Bookings to Egypt, Turkey, Orlando in Florida and cruise holidays are all currently popular, Abta said.

The poll suggested that a family of four is likely to spend £2,500 on a holiday.

More than 50% of respondents were happy to spend up to £500 on flights and accommodation, it said.

Just 9% intended to leave their booking until the last minute.

Casia Zajac, from Abta, said: "Holidays are important to people in different ways but the research is clear that holidays are a vital part of people's year and still will be this year despite the economic downturn.

"Planning and anticipating a holiday can sustain people through the winter months and the bleak financial times that are upon us."

Meanwhile, budget airline easyJet has reported a 16.6% increase in customers flying to ski destinations.