Summer holidays are expected to look different for many Brits this year due to the ongoing war in Iran and the resulting increase in flight and package deal prices to European destinations.

Domestic Demand on the Rise

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer acknowledged last week that “people might change where they go on holiday this year,” as travel disruptions and economic pressures prompt a shift in holiday preferences. While the government insists there is no need to cancel flights, some Brits are opting to stay within the UK.

Booking.com and Airbnb have both reported increased demand for domestic bookings. Searches for May half-term UK holidays on Booking.com are up 20% compared to last year, while Airbnb sees a 15% rise in searches for UK stays during the May bank holidays.

Hidden Gems and Staycation Experiences

Travel and lifestyle content creator Eboni Dixon shared her experience of UK staycations, highlighting the beauty of the British Isles. The 34-year-old noted that many UK beaches rival those found abroad and shared her love for the Isle of Wight, which she described as “unreal,” with fields that look like Croatia.

Other top spots for Eboni include Alton in Hampshire, Hastings, and Folkestone in Kent. She emphasized that a holiday does not need to involve flying abroad to be enjoyable, and that there are plenty of interesting activities within the UK.

David Land and his wife Barbara. Who had planned a trip to the Maldives, opted for a staycation in Northumberland instead, the UK Foreign Office is advising against all but essential travel to the UAE, prompting the couple to book a trip to Northumberland in June. David described the area as “idyllic” and noted that while the temperatures may not match the Maldives, the experience offers a different type of holiday with history, walks, and local amenities.

Staycations and Local Exploration

Lizzy Stroud and her husband run self-catering accommodation in converted train carriages in Cornwall, offering a car-free holiday experience; Lizzy believes that the UK has much to offer and encourages people to explore their local areas. She noted that her area of Cornwall is off the beaten tourist track, with beautiful beaches and settings that are not crowded.

Lash and nail technician Lexie McGaughey recently tried glamping in Lincolnshire with her boyfriend, and the 20-year-old from Rugby found the experience enjoyable and noted that the cost of a short UK stay was comparable to going abroad. While she admits she won’t give up package holidays altogether, she found the convenience of a short trip appealing.

Glamping, which entered the Oxford English Dictionary in 2016, is becoming a popular trend — it combines the fun of camping with added comforts, offering a unique experience without the hassle of traditional camping.