WHILE AT ONE time a Christmas trip into the North was customary, it seems the tradition may have run its course.

The weakening of the euro over the past year means that there is little value for the average shopper in making the trip.

This Christmas only 7% of the population are likely to make the journey, a drop off from the 27% who headed north in search of bargains back in 2008.

xe.com How the euro has fared against the pound over the past 10 years xe.com

This comes as part of new research from the AA, which asked more than 5,000 of its customers about their plans for the festive season.

Where are people doing their shopping?

Along with a decline in the number of people travelling north, there has also been a dip in those going to a number of other countries to stock up on presents.

The 13% of people that would have been in a salubrious enough position to venture off the island of Ireland in 2008 has now dropped to 10%.

North America, Great Britain and Europe are the most common destinations for this group.

Of those still travelling into Northern Ireland for shopping, a large majority are coming from the border counties, with big numbers of Donegal, Monaghan, Leitrim, and Louth residents all saying they would make the trip.

Any value in travelling?

While the overall benefit of having a strong euro may have vanished, there is still value to be had when it comes to buying food and alcohol.

In a price comparison last year, The Guardian found that products sold in Tesco in Ireland were much costlier than the same products sold in the supermarket’s UK branches.

The AA has issued a warning for those travelling to stock up on supplies.

Speaking about this, the AA’s director of consumer affairs Conor Faughan said:

From a motoring perspective, the AA advises drivers not to stockpile too much – your car has limits, and overloading the boot can cause serious damage to your axel, tyres and suspension.

Read: Why the Japanese are suddenly panic-buying pencils

Also: Planning some Christmas shopping in Dublin? Check this site before you head in

Making a difference

A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

For the price of one cup of coffee each week you can make sure we can keep reliable, meaningful news open to everyone regardless of their ability to pay.

Support us Learn More