New research released by Post Office Travel Money shows that 44% of those stay in the properties use them as a base to get out and visit local bars and restaurants.

The trend is most pronounced in the long haul sector where 79% of travellers eat out away from the all inclusives, spending an average of £53.42.

In total, the money spent outside of resort in long haul destinations has increased by 44% in the space of a year to £287.63.

Although 72% of those staying in European all inclusives also eat out, they spend more with the average being £59.77. The average total amount of money spent outside the resort is £254.33.

The research also revealed those visiting all-inclusive resorts are also spending more in resort with an increase of 49% spending an average of £61.18 in resort on a la carte dining on long haul trips while those doing the same in Europe are up by 33%, to £59.01

In total holidaymakers staying in resort spend a total of £324.83 in Europe, rising to £375.89 on long haul breaks.

Head of Post Office Travel Money Andrew Brown said: “The all-inclusive holiday generation is now showing clear signs of having more realistic expectations and no longer assume everything to be included in the package.

“Most holidaymakers now prefer to get out and about, spending money in local restaurants and cafes where they will get a real flavour of their holiday resort.

“That is good news for local businesses but it means that holiday cash may be stretched.

“Be prepared and take enough foreign currency to cover the cost of items bought outside the all-inclusive hotel.”

This is great news, especially if the trend continues to grow. The more money spent in the local community, the more sustainable the destination becomes.