ENVIRONMENTALLY conscious motorists who turn their backs on air travel this summer could be in line for a nasty surprise.

Their smaller, fuel-efficient cars may be too small to carry the family luggage for UK driving holidays, according to research from AA Personal Loans.

At a time when there is growing concern over the environmental impact of short-haul flying, the AA’s Deals on Wheels study has revealed that 20 per cent of people are considering a UK driving break for environmental reasons this summer.

Environment factors are also shaping car buying decisions for millions of motorists. Between March 2006 and March 2007 the proportion of people saying they will buy a car on environmental grounds increased three-fold from six per cent to 20 per cent.

Small family models such as the Ford Focus, VW Golf or Honda Civic are among the favourites, accounting for 28 per cent of planned car purchases this summer.

This is welcome news for the environment but has thrown up a basic problem for the green-conscious UK family. Most of them now own cars that are simply too small for all the gear they want to take on a camping or European driving holiday.

Noting the increasing popularity of camping and driving holi days this summer, AA Personal Loans asked a sample of 2,000 adults what they planned to take with them on their family travels.

AA Personal Loans director Lloyd East, says: “People’s decisions to respect environment issues in terms of driving holidays and buying small cars are welcome but UK holiday makers will have to think twice about what they take or consider fitting a roof container or trailer.’’

Key findings

Four people will travel in the family car

12 per cent of families will take their dog

They will attempt to cram 14 items into the boot

Three quarters plan to take two or more large suitcases

Towels, bedding and cosmetic bags are vital items.

Books, laptops, iPods, portable televisions and games consoles are all set for the holiday drive.

More than ten per cent will take their BBQ and 42 per cent will take their own food.

Children’s toys, child seats, pushchairs, cricket sets, tennis rackets and bicycles are also popular items.

Whilst sun umbrellas and beach wind breaks make the car boot, less than half plan to take a raincoat or Wellingtons.