A record number of British holidaymakers are expected to be travelling this weekend despite the predictions of a slowdown because of fears over the war in Iraq and the outbreak of Sars in south-east Asia.

The Association of British Travel Agents estimates that 1.8 million people will leave the country over the Easter weekend. More than one million will be flying on scheduled or charter flights while more than 500,000 will be travelling by ferry or through the Channel Tunnel.

The Canary islands, Spain and Turkey are the most popular short-haul destinations while further afield, Florida and the Caribbean have been selling strongly.

VisitBritain estimates that 2.6 million people will be taking a domestic break over the weekend, spending some £400 million.