Due to booming bar prices abroad, a family of four can now travel to Europe for less than the cost of the beverages they will drink during their stay, according to new research by Direct Line Travel Insurance. The study reveals that families holidaying in France will spend an average of £307 on drinks, while flights from London to Paris cost as little as £209. A gin and tonic will set travellers back a cool £9.19 when visiting our neighbours across the channel and as much as, £3.95 for a pint of Coke for the kids.

Perhaps more surprisingly Portugal is now the cheapest place to get a pint of beer (£2.65) and a Coke (£2.16) while the Netherlands is the best place to unwind with a large glass of wine (£3.90).

Tom Bishop, head of travel insurance at Direct Line, said: “It’s quite astonishing to find that your holiday bar tab can now cost more than the ticket to get you there. As a family of four now spends an average £222.01 during a break away, remember to keep an eye on the bar bill so your relaxing holiday doesn’t end with a shock."

“It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of booking your summer holiday, as you look forward to a week or two of rest and relaxation, but it’s important to remember to buy your travel insurance from a reputable travel insurance provider as part of the booking process. You can then kick back and relax with a cold G&T or your tipple of choice, safe in the knowledge you are covered should anything unexpected happen.”