It can be interesting knowing what people would spend their winnings on if they won the lottery. It’s a question that comes up in casual conversation between friends and family – and well worth exploring, even if just for interest’s sake.

Lottoland’s survey on the topic, which included asking 2,000 adults what they’d spend their cash on if they won the lottery, revealed some intriguing results.

As much as 43% of the 2,000 would go on a holiday, abroad or locally. Who wouldn’t want to hotfoot it overseas, to a destination they might not have been before or would love to return to, if they had ample means and finances?

There was a 40% contingent that would invest in a house. Owning a home is an understandable ambition for a lot of people who continue to rent or still live in their original family house with their parents.

Purchasing a car featured for 32%. Whether they already owned a car which they wanted to upgrade, or this would be their first motor vehicle, it probably has more sway in countries that don’t have reliable public transport.

Among the more selfless acts would be to give a gift to a family member – 32% wanted to do that. The size of the present wasn’t necessarily stipulated, but still. “It’s heart-warming to see that for so many people, taking care of loved ones tops the list – before fancy new cars, lavish homes and other luxuries,” said Lottoland chief executive officer Nigel Birrell.

A stay at a fancy hotel was listed by 21%. Room service, posh linen, supersized televisions and more. It all makes for an appealing stay – brief or extended – at a swanky hotel, indeed.

Gifting a friend weighed in at 20%. Not as prevalent as gifting a family member’s 32%, but still sizeable.

Visiting a fancy restaurant came it at 18%. Eating delicacies prepared by professional chefs with world acclaim can be a delicious experience. Fans of Master Chef and other culinary television shows can agree. Paying for starters, main courses, desserts and accompanying drinks wouldn’t be a problem either.

With an eye on the future and investment for it, 16% mentioned buying stocks and shares as what they’d do if they won big in the lottery. Of course, there are third parties that can do this for you, but they need to be paid to do so.

There was a 14% pocket of people that wanted to experience and animal safari. That’s very doable in Africa, so the experience would probably need to come with plane ticket purchases and accommodation expenses. Seeing wild animals – especially big creatures such as elephants, lions and giraffes – in their natural environment can be a real treat for fans of our furry friends.

In closing, 13% wanted to tuck into some jewellery purchases. These could range from diamond necklaces to emerald rings, gold bracelets and more. No matter the choice, it’d be an expensive one if wanting the genuine thing – and surely in the capability of a lottery jackpot winner.