UK holidaymakers shift to later bookings and domestic trips as costs rise
Poll of 2,000 adults reveals 67% want to avoid busy airports and 37% prefer road trips over overseas travel
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A poll of 2,000 UK adults reveals that rising costs and global instability are changing how people plan their summer holidays. The survey, commissioned by Enterprise Mobility, found that 22% of holidaymakers now arrange their getaways closer to their departure date. This marks a shift from previous years, when earlier bookings were more common.
The same poll reported that 67% of respondents want to avoid busy airports. Instead, many are opting for domestic travel, with 32% choosing destinations closer to home. More than a third, 37%, said they would prefer a UK road trip over an overseas holiday due to cost concerns.
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Staycations and road trips gain popularity
The survey found that 54% of adults have already booked a staycation for the warmer months this year. Popular destinations for domestic road trips include the Scottish Highlands, which 42% of respondents named as a top choice, followed by the Lake District at 40% and Cornwall at 37%.
Ryan Johnson, senior vice president at Enterprise Mobility, said the trends reflect a broader shift in travel habits. He told the Harrow Times that cost, convenience and flexibility are driving decisions. "This summer's travel trends paint a clear picture of how UK holidaymakers are approaching their summer holidays, with domestic travel, and road trips in particular, firmly at the forefront," he said.
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Reliability tops concerns for road trips
For those planning road trips, reliability is the most important factor when choosing a vehicle, with 46% of respondents prioritising it. Comfort and passenger space came second at 39%, while 33% cited fuel efficiency as a key consideration. Traffic was the biggest concern for summer road trips, with 54% of respondents highlighting it as a potential issue.
Johnson added that customers are increasingly seeking vehicles that match their travel needs. "Having the right vehicle in the right place at the right time is fundamental," he said. "Customers need a vehicle that is reliable, comfortable and well suited to the journey ahead."
Questions this report answers
+Why are more UK holidaymakers booking trips closer to departure?
Rising costs and global uncertainty are leading 22% of UK holidaymakers to book trips closer to their departure date. This shift allows them to avoid financial risks and adapt to changing circumstances, as reported by a poll of 2,000 adults.
+What are the top destinations for UK road trips this summer?
The Scottish Highlands, Lake District and Cornwall are the most popular destinations for UK road trips this summer. The poll found 42% of respondents chose the Highlands, 40% the Lake District and 37% Cornwall for their trips.
+What is the biggest concern for people planning summer road trips?
Traffic is the biggest concern for 54% of people planning summer road trips, according to the survey. Reliability of the vehicle is the top priority when hiring a car, with 46% of respondents citing it as the most important factor.
+How many people prefer domestic road trips over overseas travel?
37% of UK holidaymakers prefer domestic road trips over overseas travel due to cost concerns. The poll also found that 54% have already booked a staycation for the warmer months this year.
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