From being too hot to sleep (35%) to long car journeys and inevitable summer queues (9%) a new study from Groupon reveals Londoners’ top 20 summer stresses, and they’re not all what you’d expect.

The study found that despite 51% looking forward to the summer for the duration of winter, almost two in five (39%) admit it can be a stressful period. This is not surprising when 17% dread the hot commute the work and the cost associated with summer, such as holidays and socialising with friends (14%). In fact, over half (59%) say summer is a time when they want to go out and explore but they worry about spending too much money.

It’s no surprise that the recent flight cancellations made the list of bugbears (15%). And for those lucky enough to get away, packing for a holiday was also met with trepidation (11%). Back in the UK, not knowing what to wear for the temperamental weather left 17% feeling uneasy.

However, it was car journeys in particular that caused controversy, as 29% say getting stuck in traffic during the summer was the root cause of most family disputes. And with another rail strike planned for this week and more expected later in the summer, 48% said being hot and stuck in a traffic jam was one of their biggest summer stresses.

To help people keep a cool head in the car, whether they’re heading to see family and friends or driving to a staycation, Groupon has released a limited-edition Traffic Jam – a delicious fruity and herbal condiment packed with natural ingredients that guarantee relaxation during summer travels. The tasty treat can be consumed as part of breakfast before embarking on a journey, or in a sandwich en route to your destination.
Inspired by traffic lights, the jam features three different layers to enjoy:
Red – Circulation and energy

Acai berries, rhubarb, beetroot and green tea

Orange – Motion sickness and mood-boosting

Peach, orange, lemon, green tea, ginger, kombucha and cacao nibs

Green – Relaxation

Lime, kiwi, spinach and lemon-balm

For every jam produced, Groupon will be offsetting the average pollution caused by one driver during the summer holidays*. The jam is available for a limited time only via the Groupon website, find out more about how you can get your hands on it here: https://www.groupon.co.uk/deals/groupon-traffic-jam

Jeremy Paterson, Vice President, Groupon International commented,: “We spend all of winter looking forward to the warmer months, and despite our optimism it’s not without its challenges. Whilst Groupon can’t help combat your hay fever or flight cancellations, we can help ease some of Brits’ other summer stresses.

“The research shows that the cost of the summer holidays weighs heavy on people’s minds and we recognise that now more than ever, household finances are being squeezed. Whether you’re looking for cost-effective ways to keep the kids entertained during the school break, or want to try something new in your local area, Groupon has a whole host of deals available that won’t break the bank.
“Groupon aims to be the antidote to your summer bugbears so you can enjoy your time with friends and family carefree.”

Londoners’ top 20 stresses of summer
Being too hot to sleep (35%)
The unreliable weather in the UK (28%)
Mosquito / insect bites (24%)
Hay fever (23%)
Not knowing what to wear for the temperamental weather (17%)
The hot commute to work (17%)
Having to work when it’s sunny outside (16%)
Flight cancellations (15%)
The cost of the summer e.g. holidays, socialising with friends, keeping the kids entertained etc. (14%)
Busy beaches (13%)
Packing for a holiday (11%)
Booking a summer holiday (10%)
Getting sunburnt / dodgy tan lines (10%)
Long car journeys and the inevitable summer queues (9%)
Sweat marks (9%)
Unpacking after a holiday (9%)
Having to get into a bikini / swimming shorts (6%)
Getting your legs out for the first time since last summer (6%)
Sand getting everywhere – in food, in the bed etc. (6%)
Fitting all our luggage in the car / being over the luggage allowance at the airport (6%)