By Kanchan Nath

Just under a fifth (18%) never fully switch off, constantly reachable by colleagues and clients Two thirds (68%) of holidaymakers who have the ability to work remotely – meaning they can perform their job from anywhere with internet access – admit to working while on holiday, according to a new survey by Multitrip.com, a specialist travel insurance provider. The Opinium survey of 1,000 holidaymakers reveals a significant overlap between work and leisure time. The survey highlights that one in six (16%) feel pressured to continue working while on holiday, and one in ten (11%) spend an hour a day on work tasks. Just under one in five (18%) always take their work laptop or phone with them, staying accessible to colleagues and clients throughout their holiday, and nearly a fifth (18%) never fully disconnect from work. Interestingly, one in ten (11%) have worked from a holiday destination without informing their workplace, and 16% try to cut costs by combining a holiday with a work trip. Despite this, only 14% check whether their travel insurance covers work-related equipment like laptops and phones.

The survey found that 35% of holidaymakers are unable to work remotely, but of the remaining 65%, 68% have worked or not been able to switch off when on holiday and 32% could do but choose not to. Christian Bennett of Multitrip.com commented: “The line between work and personal travel is increasingly blurred. Whether it’s called blended travel, a workcation, or bleisure, it’s crucial to have the right protection in place. Ensure your company permits you to take work devices abroad and that they’re covered by travel insurance. Personal gadgets can exceed the coverage of standard policies, and mobile phones are often excluded..”