A quarter of couples go on holiday in first three months of relationship, study claims

'Whilst a week-long holiday may seem lengthy for a first trip away, it can be a good opportunity to see if a new relationship will stand the test of time and whether any romance lasts when you get home'

Couples are testing their new relationships with early holidays (Getty Images/iStock/vale_t)

A quarter of UK couples have embarked on “make or break” holidays after as little as three months together, according to a new study.

The survey of 2,000 adults found one in five do so specifically to test their relationships.

Respondents reported spending an average of seven nights away on their first holiday together.

One in 10 decided to travel further afield together on a long-haul trip, while 50 percent chose a destination closer to home.

“Whether it’s a couple’s first trip together, a honeymoon to celebrate, or a more traditional break away from everyday life, a getaway with your partner can be the perfect chance to spend quality time together and strengthen those romantic bonds,” said Karl Thompson, managing director for Sandals Resorts which commissioned the study.

“Whilst a week-long holiday may seem lengthy for a first trip away, it can be a good opportunity to see if a new relationship will stand the test of time and whether any romance lasts when you get home.”

A third of those polled believe their partner is more romantic on holiday, with half of those saying this continues once the holiday is over.

Many used their holiday as an opportunity to talk to their other half about future plans, with one in eight couples deciding to get married during the trip.

According to the survey, older couples, aged 55 and over, were more likely to have a harmonious holiday, with many feeling under pressure to make the trip go smoothly.

“It is easy to place a great deal of expectation on a holiday with your partner, but they can be a great time to shake up a relationship and make plans for the future,” Mr Thomson said.

“Despite worries about holidays going without a hitch, couples are still finding time to use their breaks away to plan the next step in their relationship and set life-changing decisions in motion.”

SWNS