The rise of the mate-cation: Modern Britons prefer trips away with pals over partners. Who do YOU like going on holiday with the most?

As millions of Brits begin planning and booking their getaways for 2024, a new survey suggests the majority (63 per cent) would rather go away with their friends than their partners.

Eight in ten Britons actively choose to book holidays with friends, while 62 per cent prefer them to trips with their family, the findings suggest.

Another 87 percent said weekends and mini getaways with friends can be better than trips with their partner or family.

The research was carried out by Leonardo Hotelswho created a ranking with the 15 best things about a ‘mate-cation’.

According to the 2,000 Brits surveyed, laughing tops the list (57 percent), followed by having a good gossip (second, 42 percent) and having time to really talk and bond (third, 40 percent).

Having “joked” came in fourth place (39 percent), followed by staying up late (fifth, 33 percent) and seeing places together (sixth, 32 percent).

Shopping trips and visits to local bars ranked seventh (29 percent), while others preferred getting ready together in the evening (eighth, 27 percent) and enjoying the first drink of the day (ninth, 24 percent ).

Rounding out the ranking are dancing and taking selfies (10th, 22 percent), spa days (11th, 21 percent), uploading photos to social media (12th, 17 percent) and chatting over breakfast. in bed (13th, 17th percent). 16 percent).

According to the survey, 78 per cent of Britons said some of their best holidays were with their friends, and the average person takes two trips with friends a year.

Nearly two-thirds (61 percent) said they returned from a family getaway feeling more stressed than before they left. By contrast, 73 percent return from a getaway with friends feeling more relaxed.

Meanwhile, 82 percent see their group of friends as their family, and another 86 percent agree that friendship is the most important thing in life.

Nearly one in five (19 percent) feel closer to their best friend than their partner, and 88 percent say their best friend knows them better than their partner.

According to the survey, 73 per cent of Britons return from a getaway with friends feeling more relaxed, compared to 61 per cent on a family holiday.

Suzanne Cannon, marketing director at Leonardo Hotels UK and Ireland, said: “The survey reveals how important friendship is to Brits, with six in ten preferring to enjoy a mini break with their friends rather than their partner.” .

‘For those planning a mating in 2024, look no further. Our 49 UK hotels are perfectly situated in the center of cities across the UK, making them the perfect base for friends who love a night out on the town or a day of shopping .

“Or, for those who prefer a relaxing weekend, our unique, dream-comfortable beds and room service offering will ensure the ultimate cozy night in with friends.”

Other hotels are available for mate-cations.