A poll of 2,000 adults who have had a UK holiday found millions are planning on making the most of their local areas – travelling only 85 miles – instead of further afield. According to research, one in four of those planning to go away have swapped a holiday abroad for a UK break.
Two thirds admitted the cost of travel and fuel has been a deciding factor in bringing this year’s staycation even closer to home. A third are booking a seaside escape, 27% would like to get away on a countryside camping retreat, and 23% will be enjoying day trips from home.
David Howells, camping and travel expert at Halfords which commissioned the study, said: “Summer holidays don’t always have to involve a week-long stay somewhere on a plane, but this year we’re seeing a real shift towards people rediscovering what’s on their doorstep.
“With travel costs front of mind, many are rethinking what a summer break looks like and embracing the charm and convenience of staying closer to home.”
Aside from fuel costs, 32% have had to reduce the length of their trip, while a further 32% will have to cut back on activities and eating out once they are there.
Nonetheless, the research also found there is a silver lining as 35% said taking a break closer to home will reduce the overall stress of it, and 31% can be more flexible with their plans.
What’s more, 65% said staycationing closer to home will still feel like a ‘proper’ holiday to them, according to the OnePoll.com data.
However, packing up the car seems like a long way off yet as those planning a trip don’t currently have the necessary essentials such as roof boxes or bars (69%), tents (59%), or folding chairs (23%).
Exactly a fifth need to make new purchases specifically for their upcoming UK holiday, with things like camping stoves (30%), sleeping bags (23%), and cool boxes (23%) on the list.
David Howells added: “It seems people are clearly making more considered choices this summer and cutting back on time away and extras once they get there to keep costs under control.
“However, looking at it more positively, staycations near home are giving people the freedom to be more flexible – whether that’s changing plans last-minute or fitting trips around everyday life.
“A UK break still delivers that all-important sense of escape, proving you don’t have to travel far or spend big to enjoy a proper holiday.”
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
