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'Lads' holidays' are well and truly dead as Brits prefer to go on more relaxing trips

Over half of men admit they would rather make up excuses to get out of "lads' holidays" while 69% of them admit they fill them with dread

[Inbetweeners]

Lads don't want an Inbetweeners-style holiday any more(Image: Publicity Picture)

The idea of a traditional 'lads' holiday' full of sun, booze and sex has become outdated, according to 65% of men. Moreover, 69% of those polled admit the prospect of an 'Inbetweeners'-style getaway fills them with absolute dread.

This sentiment is so strong that over half (53%) reveal they often make up excuses to avoid going. A recent survey by First Choice, involving 2,000 Gen Z and Millennial men, found that a staggering 81% feel pressured to act "macho" during such trips.

Furthermore, 66% struggle to keep up with the intense partying mentality.

Factors contributing to their apprehension include feeling forced to drink more than usual (39%), overspending (27%), and knowing their partner disapproves of their absence (20%). In contrast, 47% of the respondents would prefer low-key activities like dining with friends, attending a concert or gig (33%), going on a food tour (27%), or taking a walking trip (24%).

According to the study, it typically takes three days on a traditional all-male holiday for the experience to become overwhelming. One in six (15%) describe such breaks as chaotic, drawing parallels to William Golding's Lord of the Flies.

Meanwhile, 14% would rather invest in a more relaxing type of trip.

The survey also highlights the recovery time needed after such holidays, with up to five days required to physically recover from excessive drinking and six days to mentally recuperate. Turns out, over half the blokes (57%) are battling with 'hangxiety' that's the nasty cocktail of anxiety and panic post-pint, complete with a side of racing thoughts and cringe-worthy flashbacks from their boy's break.

[Get the beers in abroad]

Get the beers in abroad? Er, not any more lads(Image: Getty Images)

They're talking missed flights (24%), dodgy tattoos they'll regret (20%), mislaid passports (16%), and even a few tears shed (14%).

Because of these antics, a hefty 65% reckon they're getting too long in the tooth for such escapades, while a solid seven out of ten (70%) reckon the classic 'lads' holiday' is yesterday's news.

This eye-opener comes courtesy of a survey by First Choice, who are on a mission to spruce up the boys' getaways. They're shaking up the scene with swanky hotels and top-notch experiences, giving the old-school lads' trip a proper makeover.

First Choice's Kevin Nelson: "No one should feel pressured into being someone they're not on holiday or living up to outdated norms at the expense of their mental health."

[Sun, yes. Booze, no thanks please, we're British]

Sun, yes. Booze, no thanks please, we're British(Image: AFP via Getty Images)

He's all about redefining the game, saying: "A lads' trip should be about fun, friendship, bonding, and making memories. It's time to call for 'better boys' trips' - holidays that are about choice, authenticity, and having fun on your own terms."

And to top it off, First Choice is buddying up with indie label Everpress to knock out some snazzy, modern "Lads Holiday' tees and every penny made is going to CALM, the heroes fighting to prevent suicide and boost mental wellbeing. The collection is available now get yours here to help support CALM.

The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) operates a crucial suicide prevention helpline and offers essential online mental health resources for anyone in need.

Visit www.thecalmzone.net

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