Over the past few years, since the end of the pandemic, the “sunbed wars” have been getting increasingly tense in top destinations such as the Balearics and other parts of Spain, not to mention on board cruise ships, and a recent study has revealed that visitors from the West Midlands are most likely to aggressively claim loungers, while those from Yorkshire and the South West are deemed most courteous. But it is not just the British, the Germans also have expert sunbed operations and tactics which needless to say can lead to tension.
“Sunbed wars” are a prevalent summer, tourist-driven phenomenon, particularly in Spanish resorts like Mallorca and Tenerife, where 51% of British travelers report stress over securing pool loungers. Research indicates 70% of disputes impact overall holiday enjoyment, with 28% of UK adults (43% of 18-25 year olds) using sunbeds.
Experts attribute the scramble to territorial instincts, fear of missing out (FOMO), and the desire for security, with 61% of tourists finding the conflict frustrating. 80% of holidaymakers find securing a bed stressful, with 84% reporting discomfort with standard sunbeds. Tourists often rise before breakfast to reserve spots with towels, or even queue before pool areas open, sometimes breaking barriers. Mallorca, Tenerife, and Barcelona are identified as the most challenging destinations for sunbed availability.
The battle is viewed as a way to create order out of chaos and secure a comfortable, familiar space, notes psychologist Barbara Horvatits-Ebner. According to Horvatits-Ebner: “It’s often about the fear of missing out or not belonging. Many act from a desire to avoid failure - and this provides security.”
The expert suggests that this behaviour is driven by territorial instincts and the need to secure preferred spots around the pool.
The psychologist notes that the visible placement of towels serves as a non-verbal communication method, helping tourists avoid direct confrontation over lounger ownership. “The need for conformity strongly guides behaviour,” she adds, pointing out that when several loungers are already marked with towels, other guests feel increased pressure to follow suit. Despite policies against reserving, many hotels struggle to enforce rules, leading to, in extreme cases, fines or the removal of items. And over 25% of holidaymakers have admitted to having confrontations with others over loungers.