Rising fuel costs are driving millions of Brits to ditch long drives and foreign holidays in favour of UK summer breaks closer to home, according to a new survey. A poll of 2,000 adults who have taken a UK holiday found that on average, families are venturing just 85 miles from home for their getaway.
Shift to Local Breaks
The research, commissioned by Halfords, revealed that one in four of those planning a holiday have swapped a foreign trip for a UK staycation. However, 62% admitted that the expense of travel and petrol has been a key factor in bringing this year's staycation even nearer to home. David Howells, camping and travel expert at Halfords, 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."
Popular Staycation Types
A third of respondents are booking a seaside getaway, 27% fancy a countryside camping retreat, and 23% will be enjoying day trips from home. The data, collected by OnePoll.com, also found that 65% of those surveyed said that staycationing closer to home still feels like a 'proper' holiday.
Cost-Saving Measures
Beyond petrol costs, 32% have had to shorten the duration of their trip, while a further 32% will scale back on activities and dining out. Nevertheless, 35% said taking a break nearer to home reduces overall stress, and 31% appreciate being more adaptable with their plans.
Essential Gear Needed
Many Brits lack essential equipment for their staycation: 69% do not own roof boxes or bars, 59% lack tents, and 23% have no folding chairs. A fifth need to purchase new items specifically for their trip, including camping stoves (30%), sleeping bags (23%), and cool boxes (23%).
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."
