Airport chaos and cost-of-living crisis has British holidaymakers choosing staycations for 2022
Despite restrictions on international travel ending last year, the majority of Brits would prefer a UK staycation for their 2022 holiday, according to a new survey.
The research, which was commissioned by Greene King Inns, found that just 13% of Brits would choose a holiday abroad over a UK staycation, with two thirds of people (63%) going on to say that travelling abroad has become less appealing since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Over half of British holidaymakers (52%) cite recent airport disruption as a contributing factor for their desire to stay on home soil, while 64% say the cost-of-living crisis has had an impact on their desire to travel abroad.
Despite the nation’s preference for staycations, data has revealed that Gen Z are the most likely to prefer is stay in familiar surroundings, two fifths (40%) of 18–24-year-olds having never left their hometowns, four times more than any older generation.
Meanwhile, over a third of Brits (37%) struggle to find new and exciting places to holiday in the UK, with the number increasing to over half (56%) of 18–24-year-olds.
With so many destinations to choose from and explore in the UK, the Greene King Inns team has created a brand-new Staycation Calculator, an online tool that allows Brits to enter their dream holiday activities (e.g. music, art, beach etc) before offering users the perfect town or city location – complete with a relevant hotel.
When it comes to what people want from a staycation, preferences vary depending on age. According to the data, among 55–64-year-olds, picturesque scenery is the most important factor, with over two thirds (69%) citing scenery as key.
Sprawling views appear less important for the younger generation, according to the findings, with under a third of 18 – 24-year-olds (30%) saying they choose their getaway locations for the views. Beaches are the most important factor when Gen Z are looking for a UK break, with almost four in ten (39%) sharing this view.
The survey also found Millennials to be the biggest foodies. Almost half of 35 – 44-year-olds (49%) choose their staycation locations for the excellent food and drink choices above all else.
Liane Hunt, marketing manager for Greene King Inns said, “There are so many choices when it comes to holidaying in the UK, it can sometimes be tricky to find the right location for your dream break. Our new Staycation Calculator is the perfect tool to whittle down the options so you can get your next staycation booked.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re after a busy city break or a nice relaxed countryside hotel, we’ve got a range of great options for your 2022 staycation.”