Today Expedia has unveiled its ’Stay Off Social’ tool, where the soon-to-be-holidaymaker selects a series of envy-inducing pictures and pithy updates that can be timed to be published on their Facebook or Twitter profiles while they are away.

It follows the company’s own research into social media addiction. It found:

• During a week-long holiday, the average holiday-goer wastes over nine hours browsing social media
• Over three-quarters of participants felt they needed to post to social media whilst away
• 44% of the total group surveyed felt social media ruined their holiday experience
• Nearly half of the 2,000 participants agreed they have missed out on vital holiday experiences because of time spent on social media.
• When they were uploading photos, they were very particular about which photos made the cut: over a third admitted they had to take three to four photos before sharing one on social media. 

Alex Platts, commercial director, brand Expedia, said: “Although people have said that social media can ruin their holiday experiences, it seems it is still a significant aspect of their trip.

"With the overload of holiday selfies and the obvious fixation with sharing holiday experience online, it seems people are overlooking the importance of relaxing and living in the moment whilst on holiday.”

Is this a tool you plan on using? Let us know in the comments section below...