Move over, staycations—there's a new travel trend taking Britain by storm, and it's just received the ultimate linguistic endorsement. 'Coolcation' has been officially named Collins Dictionary's Word of the Year 2024, cementing its place in the British lexicon and highlighting a significant shift in holiday preferences.
What Exactly Is a Coolcation?
For those not yet in the know, a coolcation represents a fundamental rethinking of traditional summer holidays. Rather than chasing the sun to overcrowded Mediterranean resorts, British travellers are increasingly opting for cooler destinations during the peak summer months.
The trend has gained remarkable traction as climate change makes traditional summer hotspots increasingly uncomfortable, with Brits discovering the joys of escaping extreme heat while exploring more temperate locations.
Beyond Coolcations: Other Travel Words Making Waves
Collins Dictionary's annual list reveals several other travel-related terms that have entered common usage:
- Touron: A blend of 'tourist' and 'moron' describing visitors who behave recklessly or disrespectfully at destinations
- Hush trip: Working remotely from a holiday destination without informing employers
- Gig tripping: Travelling specifically to attend concerts or music festivals
- Spaghetti tourism: The practice of queueing for hours to visit overcrowded attractions
Why Coolcations Are Reshaping British Travel
Several factors are driving the coolcation phenomenon that's captured the nation's imagination:
- Climate Adaptation: With European heatwaves becoming more intense, cooler destinations offer relief from sweltering temperatures
- Crowd Avoidance: Popular southern European destinations are struggling with overtourism during peak season
- Cost Considerations: Travelling outside traditional peak seasons and to less conventional destinations can offer better value
- Sustainability: Many travellers are seeking more environmentally conscious holiday options
The Future of British Holidays
The recognition of 'coolcation' as Word of the Year signals more than just linguistic evolution—it reflects a fundamental change in how Brits approach travel. From the Scottish Highlands to Scandinavian capitals, travellers are discovering that sometimes the coolest holiday isn't the hottest one.
As travel continues to evolve, these new terms provide the vocabulary to describe our changing habits, proving that how we talk about travel is just as important as where we choose to go.
