By James Rodger

Copyright birminghammail

More than 15 million are being put off European holidays because of new EU digital border rules. New research commissioned by Co-op Insurance has found that more than 15 million adults in the UK would be put off European Union holidays because of the new EU digital border launching on 12th October. Two in three UK adults are unaware that the Entry/Exit System (EES) will be introduced next month. The EES is the new digital border control system that’s designed to replace manual passport stamping for non-EU travellers, including UK passport holders, entering the Schengen Area. Indeed, of those who would be ‘put off’ travelling to EU countries, more than a third say that they don’t like the idea of having their biometrics on file, whilst one in 10 in the UK would be deterred by the potential for long delays at the border. READ MORE UK households told to stock up on heating essential before October 1 Just over one in five of those who would be ‘put off’ are concerned that it would mean less time to relax at the airport. A fifth say that going through security makes them feel ‘stressed’, whilst one in six are left feeling anxious. 13 per cent of UK adults go to Europe three or more times a year as it stands. Ellis German, Head of Travel at Co-op Insurance said: “Ahead of the introduction of the EU’s Entry/Exit System, it’s important that travellers are aware of the changes so that they can plan their travel plans accordingly. “Our research suggests that most people in the UK are unaware of the introduction of the digital border system with some feeling apprehensive about how the changes will impact their travel plans. “However, we are encouraging holidaymakers heading to EU countries after October 12th to familiarise themselves with the new border system so that they are well prepared for their trip and enjoy a smooth airport experience.”