Six in ten people are unable to afford to take their children away during the school summer holidays, according to new research.
As a result, two-thirds of parents agree that it is usually more cost-effective to be fined for taking their child out of school during term-time than to take holidays during summer break.
Two fifths would happily accept the fine to take their child out of school for a holiday, with half saying it is often the cheaper option, the Expedia poll of 2,000 parents found.
Four in ten of these would take the hit because it’s quieter to holiday outside of term time while a quarter are not able get the time off work during the school summer holidays.
It also emerged booking nearly six months in advance for both flights and accommodation is crucial, with both being the aspects of a holiday parents are more likely to budget for.
The study found that the average family will take two holidays a year, which sees parents spending £2,417 for each nine day-long break.
They will spend £363.74 on flights, £439.57 on accommodation and £49.29 on toys for the beach or to take home with them during each break.
A further £193.97 will be spent on day trips, £31.61 on souvenirs and £184.04 on car hire, taxis and public transport.
Activities to keep children entertained will cost £225.67 per trip, with families spoiling themselves on dinners out costing £220.34.
While more than half of parents will save up to afford the family holiday, one third will put the expense on a credit card.
However, 83% confessed they will normally go over budget by £240 per trip.
The research was commissioned by Expedia to launch Add-on Advantage, a feature giving travellers access to discounts on hotels after booking a flight, car or package on the site.
Global marketing senior vice president, Aaron Price, said: “We understand how important holidays are to a family.
“They give us the opportunity to spend quality time together and make new memories with our loved ones, which can sometimes be quite rare.
“Going away shouldn’t have to cost the earth and the Add-on Advantage aims ease the financial strain, whilst giving travellers more flexibility and the time to book the best holiday for them.”
Breakdown of the cost of a family holiday:
Flights £363.74
Accommodation £439.57
Activities £225.67
Day trips/excursions £193.97
Meals out £220.34
Car hire £128.20
Insurance £122.46
Ice-cream £31.22
Souvenirs £31.61
Snacks £40.02
Hats £22.52
Suncream £26.34
Towels £22.41
Alcoholic drinks £47.50
Soft drinks £43.04
Food (self-catered) £59.45
Toys for the beach £25.12
Toys to take home £24.17
Toiletries £29.24
Clothes £48.74
Swimwear £32.71
Sun loungers £23.33
Umbrellas £21.51
Public transport such as busses or trains £27.78
Taxis £28.06
Gifts for friends/family back home £30.02
Postcards £20.58
Magazines/books £22.40
Body boards £20.71
Inflatables £23.11
Snorkelling equipment £21.55