Top 20 must-haves for perfect summer holiday – including a nearby beach and all-inclusive drinks


The ‘perfect’ summer holiday must be all-inclusive, offer plenty of sunbathing spots and just a ‘stone’s throw’ away from the beach.

A poll of 2,000 holidaymakers revealed Brits ideally want at least three different daily activities on offer and at least five restaurants to choose from when holidaying abroad.

While 27 per cent said they would like an extensive buffet included in their accommodation and 18 per cent would prefer to stay in an adult-only hotel.

In the evening, 33 per cent want the opportunity to dance the night away while for 23 per cent plenty of entertainment is a must.

Al Murray, at loveholidays, which commissioned the research, said: “Everybody has a list of must-haves when it comes to a summer holiday.

“It only comes around once a year so boxes need to be ticked and the ultimate getaway needs to be enjoyed for people to fully relax and unwind.

“During the planning phase there is so much to consider to get it right and by using an online agent we can help to not only find the best break for you, but also secure a good deal.

“That way you really have something to look forward to and that you know you will enjoy this summer.”

Credit: SWNS

This 2023 will be the ultimate summer holiday

The survey revealed the ideal summer holiday would last 10 days – with Italy, the Maldives and Greece topping the poll for dream destinations.

More than half (51 per cent) would opt for a different country every summer, while 21 per cent are happy to return to the same place, but keen to try new hotels or resorts.

Sightseeing (45 per cent), eating and drinking (42 per cent), and spending quality time with loved ones (31 per cent) is how most of those polled would spend the majority of their time away.

And when it comes to what they value most while on holiday, getting some sunshine (53 per cent), exploring a new country (49 per cent) and escaping the hustle and bustle of life (47 per cent) were among the top choices.

Thinking about this summer, 38 per cent are determined to enjoy a ‘bucket list’ holiday with almost half (48 per cent) simply eager to escape from the doom and gloom of the UK.

For 41 per cent, the pandemic got in the way of enjoying a dream getaway but three in 10 used that time to save up so they could pursue their holiday desires this year.

More than four in 10 (41 per cent) are most likely to opt for a package holiday rather than booking each element individually (32 per cent) – ensuring flights, accommodation and transfers are sorted in one go.

For 63 per cent of those who prefer package holidays, the easier booking process is what is most appealing, while 56 per cent like the fact the holiday will be financially protected.

According to the OnePoll study, more than half (55 per cent) are attracted to the idea that everything will be taken care for them while 45 per cent do it because it’s more cost-effective.

Top 20 must-haves for the perfect summer holiday

  1. Nearby beach
  2. Sightseeing
  3. Decent size swimming pool
  4. On-site restaurants
  5. Hotel bar
  6. Extensive buffet at hotel
  7. Plenty of sunbathing
  8. All-inclusive accommodation
  9. Evening entertainment
  10. External excursions
  11. All-inclusive drinks
  12. Lots of adventures
  13. A la carte restaurants at hotel
  14. Adult-only hotel
  15. Boat trips
  16. Adult-only area
  17. Hikes
  18. Private beach
  19. Swimming pool with waterslides
  20. Room service
Chris Price