Researchers Reveal that Social Media, Soaring Resort Costs and Bad Weather are Fuelling the Rows
New research reveals that 80% of people admit they end up arguing while on holiday with Londoners arguing the most (87%) and the Welsh (68%) the least. While slightly down from 83% last year, holiday disagreements remain a stubbornly common part of travelling.
The InsureandGo poll asked a representative sample of 2,000 holidaymakers to reflect on the regular causes of holiday arguments, based on their trips abroad over the last year. When it comes to the biggest triggers, flight delays remain the number one cause of holiday rows. However, some of the more predictable flashpoints appear to be fading.
Traditional disagreements such as where to go on holiday and what – or how much – to pack have fallen down the list in 2026. Instead, a new set of frustrations is emerging.
The most common causes of holiday arguments now include:
- Extreme or poor weather (19%)
- The high cost of things at resorts (18%)
- Rude staff or poor service (17%)
- People being glued to social media (15%)
The research reveals a clear generational divide in how often people clash while away.
- Under-25s are the most likely to argue on holiday (most commonly about the Wi-Fi) with an eye-catching 96% admitting to disagreements.
- Holiday romance can also be a flashpoint. The findings suggest flirting is most likely to spark arguments among 35–44-year-olds, as well as Londoners, indicating that relationship tensions can be heightened in holiday settings.
- Among over-65s, poor service is the biggest irritation, with 41% saying rude staff or bad service causes the most stress on holiday.
Where you live also appears to influence how argumentative your holiday might be.
The research found Londoners are the UK’s most argumentative holidaymakers, with 87% reporting disputes while away. At the other end of the scale, Welsh travellers are the least likely to argue, with 68% experiencing disagreements.
In addition, nearly three quarters of respondents (74%) say there is at least one person they find stressful to travel with, and the answer often depends on life stage.
- Under-25s are most likely to say parents are the most stressful travel companions (28%).
- Over-45s come top when it comes to admitting their partner is the most stressful travel companion (24%).
- Over-55s and 60s: The group most likely to say they prefer travelling alone.
Garry Nelson, Head of Corporate Affairs at InsureandGo comments: “The findings suggest that while holidays can bring huge wellbeing benefits, giving people the opportunity to relax and spend time with loved ones, the realities of travel – from delays and rising costs to family dynamics – can quickly turn a break into a battleground.
“At InsureandGo we know that while some holiday hiccups are unavoidable, removing practical worries and doubts can make a real difference. That’s why we aim to make getting the right travel insurance as easy as possible, so travellers can focus on enjoying their time away.”