3 in 5 adults in Belfast still go on holiday with their parents – and nearly half say they couldn’t afford to travel otherwise

Forget independence – in Belfast, adults are continuing to rely on mum and dad for their holidays. New research reveals 60% of adults in Belfast still holiday with their parents, which tops the UK and is far above the national average of 42%. Cost pressures are a major factor, with 42% saying they simply couldn’t afford a break without parental help.

Almost a third (29%) admit their parents pick up the bill, and one in five parents say they don’t expect grown-up children to contribute anything. But with five-night breaks averaging £1,241 per person, parents covering costs for multiple adults can easily spend thousands each year.

Ski package operator Erna Low has crunched the numbers on Brits’ Top 10 holiday destinations to reveal the average cost of a five-night break abroad – and the results show just how expensive family travel has become.

Holiday Cost Index (Top 10 Countries)

Turkey emerges as the most affordable option at £901 per person, with Spain (£952) and Greece (£1,067) close behind – keeping the Mediterranean at the value end. France (£1,051) sits in the third‑cheapest slot on this list, offering a great balance of price and popularity.

In contrast, the USA (£2,292) is by far the priciest, driven by high flight and accommodation costs. Even short‑haul Netherlands (£1,424) and Germany (£1,188) remind us proximity doesn’t always mean cheap.

For Belfast parents funding multiple trips, these figures highlight why the so-called “Mum and Dad Travel Agency” is under pressure. A typical family holiday for four adults now costs over £4,800, and with some destinations nearing £2,300 per person, the price of keeping grown-up kids on board is soaring.

What average everyday costs look like

These figures explain the bigger picture. Turkey’s low meal cost (£13.42) and bargain taxi fares (£6.26) make it exceptional value once you arrive. Spain also keeps daily spend in check, reinforcing its reputation as a go-to for affordable family breaks. By contrast, the Netherlands and Germany climb the rankings thanks to pricey meals and transport, while Italy’s higher food costs (£30.57) push it above France despite similar flight times.

Jane Bolton, ski expert at Erna Low says: “With Belfast leading the UK for family holidays, it’s clear cost pressures are shaping travel choices. What the data really shows is the huge variation in holiday costs, even among short-haul favourites. Turkey and Spain deliver incredible value, while destinations like the Netherlands and Germany can surprise you with higher on-the-ground costs.

“France has surfaced as a fantastic family holiday option, offering strong value without compromising on quality. That’s why it’s such a popular choice for ski holidays – it combines affordability with world-class resorts. And it’s not just seasoned skiers – our research found 20% of adults would be more likely to go on a skiing trip if it was part of a bigger family holiday.”

For full data and tips on planning affordable family holidays, visit: https://www.ernalow.co.uk/en-gb/blog/travel-insights/why-so-many-uk-adults-still-go-on-holiday-with-their-parents