A survey of over 1,200 British TripAdvisor users reveals that that a significant 22 per cent of respondents have incorporated a mobile device into their travel-planning process.

“As mobile, tablet and smartphone use increases at breakneck speed, the way travellers plan their trips is fundamentally changing,” commented Emma O’Boyle, TripAdvisor spokesperson. “We’re seeing phenomenal growth in the number of travellers planning their holidays – both before they leave and during their trip – on mobile devices.”

Of those using their mobile devices to plan holidays, researching and booking accommodation is the most common activity.

Of those who plan travel on their mobile device:

• 29 per cent have booked or researched accommodation
• 27 per cent have researched destinations
• 26 per cent have read traveller reviews
• 23 per cent have researched restaurants
• 18 per cent have booked or researched flights

Nearly half of British respondents (45 per cent) have used their mobile devices to plan and research their trip once they’ve arrived at their destination. For those respondents who use their mobile device while travelling, restaurant research takes priority:

• 29 per cent researched restaurants
• 28 per cent checked their flight status
• 21 per cent researched attractions
• 18 per cent researched accommodation
• 16 per cent researched tours

“Whether travellers are looking for the nearest attractions or top-rated restaurants, these findings show that smartphones and tablets are an increasingly important travel companion,” continued Emma O’Boyle.

Roaming charges remain the biggest barrier to using mobile devices on international holiday.

The following comprise the “greatest frustrations” for British respondents when using a mobile device while travelling:

• 47 per cent said roaming fees
• 18 per cent said sporadic connectivity
• Seven per cent said small screen

Despite 75 per cent of Brits admitting to using a mobile device when travelling, a substantial 79 per cent of respondents claim to get annoyed by fellow travellers using their mobile devices while travelling.