TopicUk Business Magazine

Staycation vs abroad

The Editor -

For many UK residents, summer getaways for 2020 are set to look a little different to what we’re more commonly used to.
Many of us have unfortunately had our 2020 holidays plans cancelled after a turbulent start to the year, but can we still get that R&R we crave?

With the hospitality industry, both in the UK and in many abroad destinations, finally getting the green lights when it comes to reopening their doors to the public, the big question has arisen. Staycation or abroad?

A survey conducted by Swift Go, the UK's No.1 leisure vehicle brand, found that almost 70% of participants had unfortunately had an abroad holiday cancelled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic with more still being cancelled after the latest travel restrictions for Spain.

With 65% of the population still not feeling safe travelling abroad, will we see a larger increase in staycations than initially expected?

Most popular staycations 2020:

With the majority of abroad holidays being cancelled, over 70% of participants have now considered a UK holiday instead, with the following being their preferred type of staycation.

  • Countryside cottage (66.8%)
  • Caravan/ motorhome (45.4%)
  • Camping (35.2%)
  • Beach holiday (34.2%)
  • City breaks (27.7%)
  • Spa break (16.7%)
  • Park resort (16.4%)

With many rules still in place, linked to the pandemic, holidays that allow for more distance between holidaymakers and offer a self-catered option are preferred.

As well as an increase in a one off UK holiday, an increase has been found within holiday home ownership. Interest and sales into holiday homes have seen a large increase over the last month, with Park Holidays seeing it double compared to the previous year.

“Staycations are certainly here to stay. Travelling abroad, whether people are concerned about health, the hassle or the increased cost has meant people will turn more to the UK as a preferred destination.

Being able to jump in your car and be on holiday in an hour or two whenever you choose is very appealing to people who have been locked down for several months.”