Nearly half (44 per cent) of people in Fife are deliberately planning to take less time off this year due to worries about their finances, according to a survey from online travel agent loveholidays.

According to their poll, the average person in Fife has only taken 12 days off in the first six months of 2023, with 10 per cent not confident they will use all their annual leave this year.

While cost-of-living pressures was cited as the main reason for people taking less time off, 20 per cent say they are too busy to have time away and a further 16 per cent feel guilty for being off work.

The survey also found that, on average, 4-5 days off work is the ideal time for people in Fife to recharge and reset, with workers dreaming of using their leave to spend time with friends and family or travelling to far-flung destinations.  

Sixty per cent say it is very likely someone at work will contact them even when on annual leave, with a third (32 per cent) not feeling they currently have a healthy work-life balance.

Al Murray, Chief Marketing Officer of loveholidays, said: “Struggling to strike a good work-life balance is one thing, but with a cost-of-living crisis to contend with too, it’s understandable many are finding it harder to take time off in 2023. 

“However, taking a break is so important for people’s wellbeing and planning ahead so you can take the time to reset is essential. Whether it’s simply using the time to see friends and family, or pursuing your travel dreams and exploring new destinations, taking time off shouldn’t have to be an expensive luxury." 

“At loveholidays, we’re on a mission to open the world to everyone, with loads of last-minute summer breaks for every type of traveller still available to help Scots find the perfect getaway for them and make the most of any time they do have off.”