The hot summer has seen increased spending on summer-related items; from day trips to caravan holidays, according to thisismoney.co.uk.

A study from Barclaycard has noted that the hot temperatures have caused people to be freer with their wallets, with consumers rushing out to buy barbecues and other outdoor-related paraphernalia or visit British attractions.  

In what has been Britain's first heatwave in six years - or what some would simply call 'summer' - Barclaycard found a 39.9 per cent increase in sales at campsites and caravan parks.

An associated 5.5 per cent increase in food and beverage sales implies that many of the campers were enjoying al fresco dining also, caravantimes.co.uk suggests.

The findings are great news for the British tourism economy, not to mention the fact that the weather allows people to take hard-earned breaks in the sunshine far more easily.

However, sun-drenched holidaymakers mustn't get complacent and forget to secure their temporary accommodation. Fitting caravan security products should prevent opportunists from breaking-in, while not leaving valuables in tents should dissuade thefts.

Speaking about the research, Barclaycard CEO Valerie Soranno Keating said: "Consumers took full advantage of the recent warm weather by getting out and about, spending much more than last year on enjoying themselves.

"Sales at camp sites and caravan parks were up just short of 40 per cent and nearly 20 per cent at UK tourist attractions."