We have become so reliant on smartphones and tablets on holiday that having to pay for Wi-Fi is now one of the top ‘holiday hates’.

What’s more, one in 20 actually admits they would rather spend time online than with their partners on holiday.

A 2,000-person poll by Thistle Hotels in the UK found the average holidaymaker spends an hour each day on holi-day catching up with friends and current affairs, online.

It’s crazy to think that in 2014 hotel chains are still charging high prices for Wi-Fi

As a result, having to pay for Wi-Fi now ranks alongside traditional holiday grumbles such as rude hotel staff and rooms not being ready.

The research, undertaken to launch Thistle’s new faster, free internet in all its UK hotels, uncovered the top five ‘holiday hates’ as being rude hotel staff (69 per cent), rooms not being ready (45 per cent), paying for Wi-Fi (38 per cent), limited menu selection (37 per cent) and not being as close to attractions as advertised (32 per cent).

The survey also found that when booking a holiday, fast, free and reliable Wi-Fi is more important (51 per cent), than having a swimming pool (49 per cent), being close to local attractions (41 per cent) and even having a TV in the room (37 per cent).

Thistle CEO Mike DeNoma said: “It’s crazy to think that in 2014 hotel chains are still charging high prices for Wi-Fi. Our research shows that free, fast and reliable Wi-Fi is very important to holidaymakers.”

Top 5 ‘holiday hates’

• Rude hotel staff (69%)
• Rooms not being ready (45%)
• Paid-for Wi-Fi (38%)
• Limited buffet /menu selection (37%)
• Not being as close to holiday attractions as advertised (32%)