As the cost of living in the UK continues to rise and energy prices loom, many Brits are opting to stay home for their vacations. A recent survey found that a third of British citizens are choosing to stay grounded this year and holiday within the UK. This trend, known as staycations, has been growing in popularity for several years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated it.
After a summer of airport mayhem, cancelled flights, and travel restrictions, it’s not surprising that many people are hesitant to venture abroad. A survey by the Office of National Statistics found that nine out of ten passengers reported disrupted travel during the early part of the summer, with half of those experiencing longer than normal queues in the airport and when waiting for luggage. Concerns about airport chaos and travel disruptions are just one factor driving the popularity of staycations.
Another factor is the high cost of international travel. With the cost of living crisis hitting many households hard, people are having to think twice about whether a holiday in the sunshine is a priority this year. In a recent survey of 2,000 adults by popular hotel chain Travelodge, one fifth of those questioned felt that going abroad was too expensive. A third of respondents said they would be taking their main holiday within the UK this year.
However, the rise of staycations is good news for the UK’s tourism industry. Bookings in the UK jumped a massive 300% after lockdown restrictions were lifted last year, and the trend is continuing this year. The hashtags #UKStaycation and #StaycationUK have gathered a combined total of over 400,000 posts on Instagram.
Many travellers are taking the opportunity to explore the countless hidden gems that the UK has to offer, as experts Manor & Ashbury Resorts can attest to. The report found that seaside destinations, like Dorset and Cornwall were the most popular, likely helped by the record heatwaves experienced by much of the country and of course, recent social media trends showcasing impressive beauty spots. Durdle Door in Dorset, for example, was overwhelmed by a massive influx of tourists looking to snap a perfect Instagram shot of its picturesque beach.
However, the rise of staycations is not just about the beaches. Many people are taking the opportunity to explore the UK’s stunning countryside, with the Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District, and the Scottish Highlands among the most popular destinations. Others are opting for city breaks, with London, Edinburgh, and Bath among the most popular destinations.
The rise of staycations is not just limited to the general public. Even celebrities are getting in on the trend, with Tom Hardy, Tina O’Brien, Carol Vorderman, and even Hugh Grant all opting to vacation in the UK this year. Social media has played a significant role in promoting the trend, with many travellers sharing their experiences on platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
The benefits of staycations go beyond just supporting the UK’s tourism industry. By staying local, people are reducing their carbon footprint and supporting local businesses. According to a report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR), domestic tourism contributes £80 billion to the UK economy annually, with 1.6 million people employed in the sector. By supporting local businesses, travellers are helping to boost the UK’s economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The rise of staycations also offers an opportunity for people to discover more about their own country and to appreciate what it has to offer. With the UK’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, there is something for everyone. By staying local, people are also discovering that they don’t have to travel far to experience a sense of escape and relaxation.