Survey highlights UK travellers' luggage needs

A new survey has highlighted one of the main benefits of ferry travel, with holidaymakers taking breaks in the UK reportedly squeezing as much luggage into their car as possible before setting off.

Car accessory and camping retailer Halfords found that travellers are taking so many things with them on domestic breaks that it is adding the equivalent of two extra passengers to their vehicle.

Six out of ten respondents admitting to packing more today than they did five years ago, with tables and chairs, bikes, portable televisions and even electric shower cubicles emerging as some of the "must-have" items.

People planning to travel with ferry operators such as Wightlink and the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company for a 'staycation' this year will benefit from the peace of mind that they will not have to pay any additional fees for luggage, regardless of how much is crammed into their car.

Paul Fensome, Halfords' travel solutions expert, said: "Times have changed. We were astonished by what people pack and the items they need - regardless of whether they are camping or staying in holiday accommodation.

"More people are holidaying in the UK than ever and they are telling us they want their home luxuries with them."

Wightlink provides ferries from Portsmouth to Fishbourne on the Isle of Wight, while the Steam Packet Company offers Isle of Man ferry breaks from Heysham and Liverpool.

Posted by Mark Robinson