10 Things British People Will Complain About—Even On Holiday
10 Things British People Will Complain About—Even On Holiday

Alright, let’s have a bit of light-hearted fun! When Brits go on holiday, there are a few things you can bet they’ll have a moan about. No matter how stunning the destination, there are certain comforts from home that are simply irreplaceable—or so it seems! From the weather to the food, here’s a list of things Brits tend to find fault with even while they’re supposed to be relaxing and enjoying their break from the daily grind.
1. It’s ‘too hot’

There’s always someone who finds the sun just a bit too enthusiastic on holiday. Despite longing for sunshine in dreary British weather, it turns out there’s a threshold of tolerance. When the thermometer climbs, you’ll hear Brits say it’s “too hot” to enjoy anything. They’ll seek refuge under every bit of shade and fan themselves relentlessly, reminiscing about the mild British summer where you can sit outside without melting.
2. It’s ‘too cold’ for the time of year

On the flip side, if the holiday destination doesn’t provide a toasty escape from British temperatures, you’ll hear about it. “It’s supposed to be summer here, why do I need a jumper?” is a common refrain. This unexpected chill can lead to a scramble for warmer clothes and disappointment over not being able to show off those new summer outfits packed with hope.
3. The Wi-Fi is rubbish

Even when escaping it all, good Wi-Fi is a must for most British tourists. Whether it’s to post pictures on social media, check emails, or stream favourite shows, a slow or spotty internet connection is often a source of frustration. You’ll hear the grumbles, comparing it unfavourably to the ‘decent broadband’ back home.
4. Not enough sun loungers

The early morning race to claim a sun lounger with a towel is a holiday sport. But what happens when there just aren’t enough loungers to go around? Complaints, that’s what. This all-too-common issue can sour a day meant for relaxation, as tourists are forced to lay their towels on the grass or hot sand.
5. Too many people at the pool

Nothing quite disrupts the peaceful holiday vibe like a crowded pool, especially when you’re vying for space to swim, splash, or simply float. Brits often lament how the pool is ‘just too packed’, making it hard to unwind and relax. This can lead to early morning or late evening swims just to avoid the crowd.
6. Expensive drinks at the bar

After discovering the price of drinks at the hotel bar, you might overhear some Brits doing quick currency conversions and sighing heavily. The cost of a simple gin and tonic can seem exorbitant compared to back home, leading to complaints about having to budget for what should be relaxing sundowners.
7. Lack of proper tea

Tea is almost a sacred ritual in the UK, and finding the same comforting brew abroad can be a challenge. Complaints about weak, tasteless tea or the lack of familiar brands are common, as holidaymakers miss their comforting cuppa that tastes just right.
8. Having to pay for beach umbrellas

Heading to the beach should be a day of fun and relaxation, but the additional cost of renting beach umbrellas often catches Brits off guard. Used to beaches where everything is free, the extra charge can be a little annoying, prompting a few moans and groans about how everything ‘costs extra’.
9. Nowhere doing beans on toast

A simple yet beloved dish, beans on toast is sorely missed by many Brits on holiday. The quest to find a café serving this comfort food often ends in vain, leading to disappointment and a longing for a taste of home—even if they are in a place with exquisite local cuisine.
10. Fellow British tourists being too loud

Even while complaining about various aspects of their holiday, some Brits find the volume of their fellow countrymen too much. Whether it’s at the bar, by the pool, or in the hotel late at night, the noise can be too loud, leading to ironic complaints about other Brits ruining the tranquility.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.
