UK Staycations on the Rise and the Car is Key

Driver Advice

Recent research shows that over a third of Brits would now choose a UK holiday over travelling abroad, highlighting a continued shift towards staycations. From coastal escapes to countryside retreats, the appeal of exploring closer to home is stronger than ever. Britain’s stunning coastlines rank as the number one reason people enjoy staycations, followed by green countryside, shorter travel times, and avoiding the hassle of airports. Traditional experiences like pub lunches, scenic drives, and visiting historic landmarks also feature highly, reinforcing the unique charm of UK travel.

Posted on 14 May 2026 Posted by Jess Stanbrook

Where Brits Are Going

  • 62% prefer coastal getaways
  • 50% enjoy city breaks
  • 28% choose camping or glamping

Top destinations include the Southwest of England at 21%, followed by Scotland at 15% and Wales at 11%.

On average, Brits travel around 206 miles per trip, making road travel the most practical and popular option.

Why the Car Dominates Staycations

It is no surprise that 80% of Brits choose the car as their main mode of transport for UK holidays. The flexibility, comfort and ability to explore at your own pace make it ideal for everything from coastal drives to rural escapes.

Nearly nine out of ten people say they enjoy scenic drives as part of their trip, turning the journey itself into an important part of the holiday experience.

What Makes the Ideal Staycation Car

When choosing a car for a UK getaway, practicality and comfort matter most. The top features Brits look for are:

  • Comfortable seats at 51%
  • Large boot space at 41%
  • Good fuel economy or electric range at 38%
  • Built in satellite navigation at 35 
  • A spacious cabin at 19%

British weather also plays a major role, with 78% saying it can make or break a trip. Features such as heated seats, climate control and panoramic roofs can significantly improve comfort in changing conditions.

The Rise of Electric and Efficient Travel

Sustainability is becoming more important for UK travellers.

  • 15% have been encouraged by family to travel more sustainably
  • 9% actively prioritise environmentally friendly travel
  • 77% of electric vehicle drivers say charging access at accommodation is important

For many trips, modern electric vehicles offer more than enough range to comfortably cover the average 206-mile journey, with rapid charging making longer journeys easier.

Budget and Behaviour

The average spend per UK trip is £391.11

Half of respondents say rising travel costs are making them more likely to stay within the UK

This shift makes cost effective travel by car even more appealing.

 

What Brits Love Most About Staycations

Some of the most popular reasons people enjoy UK holidays include:

Stunning coastlinesGreen countrysideFish and chipsWildlife watching
Shorter travel timesAvoiding airportsScenic drivesTaking the dog
Visiting historical landmarksWoodland walksPub lunchesSupporting local businesses
Watching sunsetsExploring familiar culture and foodLocal festivals and eventsFarmers markets and regional produce

Example Cars Well Suited for UK Staycations:

1

Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai offers a comfortable ride, practical interior space and strong efficiency for everyday trips and longer UK journeys.

2

Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage stands out with its spacious cabin, modern technology and smooth drive, making it ideal for family staycations.

3

Hyundai Tuscon

Hyundai Tucson combines bold design with comfort and reliability, offering plenty of space for passengers and luggage.

4

Ford Kuga

Ford Kuga delivers a balanced mix of practicality, comfort and efficiency, well suited to both city driving and longer road trips.

5

Peugeot 5008

Peugeot 5008 provides excellent space with its seven seat layout, making it perfect for larger families and luggage heavy holidays.

6

Tesla Model Y

Tesla Model Y offers impressive electric range, a large boot and advanced technology, making it a strong choice for longer UK journeys.

7

Kia EV6

Kia EV6 offers strong electric range, rapid charging and a spacious interior, making it ideal for longer UK road trips.

8

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Hyundai Ioniq 5 combines futuristic design with excellent comfort, fast charging and plenty of cabin space for relaxed journeys.

Summary

Staycations have become a preferred choice for many Brits. With shorter journeys, lower costs and greater flexibility, travelling by car remains central to the experience.

Choosing the right vehicle can make a significant difference. Whether it is a spacious SUV, an efficient electric model or a practical estate car, the right choice helps turn a simple trip into a comfortable and enjoyable UK adventure.

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