Holiday Prep More Stressful Than Moving House, Say Brits

Holiday Prep More Stressful Than Moving House, Say Brits

A new study from Heathrow Express reveals that for many Brits, getting ready for a family holiday is more nerve-wracking than moving house, buying property, or even sitting a job interview. In fact, 38% of respondents say holiday prep tops their stress list—and among 25-34 year olds, that figure jumps to 52%. For 1 in 20, it’s as emotionally taxing as a break-up or divorce.

Despite best intentions, over 70% of parents aged 25–34 admit to forgetting key items and having to repurchase them at the airport. Toothbrushes (31%), phone chargers (28%), and underwear (10%) are among the most commonly missed essentials. Gen Z travellers are especially prone to last-minute chaos, with nearly half (45%) forgetting their toothbrush and over a third (38%) leaving without a charger.

The good news? Nearly half of UK holidaymakers (49%) say they feel like they’re officially on holiday the moment they arrive. That sense of relief is strongest in the South-West (62%) and London (57%), where travellers are quick to switch off and soak up the joy of being away.

To help families ease into holiday mode, Heathrow Express is offering advance fares from just £10—with free travel for children under 15. It’s a simple way to tick one thing off the list early and start the journey stress-free.

With October half term around the corner and over 7 million passengers expected to pass through Heathrow this month, families across the UK are gearing up for their next adventure. And while the prep can feel like a mission—between passports, snacks, and chargers—a smooth journey to the airport can set the tone for the whole trip.

Aoife Considine, Business Lead at Heathrow Express, shares:

“There’s nothing better than that feeling when your holiday begins… We’re proud to make the first part of the nation’s holidays feel smoother and more enjoyable for all”. 

For more details or to book advance fares, visit www.heathrowexpress.com.

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