Travel agents and airlines saw smaller contractions of 26.9% and 28.1% respectively in October, compared to a decline of 45.4% and 49.5% in September.

Barclaycard described the statistics as "encouraging news" for the travel sector, as overall consumer card spending grew by 14.2% last month compared to October 2020. 

Jose Carvalho, head of consumer products, said the "expensive festive period" combined with "ongoing concerns around the impact of inflation and supply chain shortages" has led to a "steady yet cautious" spending from consumers in October.

"While the uncertainty around rising household bills appears to be weighing on Brits’ minds, the encouraging growth we’ve seen in entertainment and international travel shows that consumers are still keen to enjoy leisure activities and holidays," he added.

"As the nation continues its Christmas shopping and gears up for Black Friday and other sales, we’re confident that November should bring some welcome cheer to retailers."