Planning The Perfect UK Staycation
In a cost of living crisis for some it’s just not possible to be jetting off to another country, however, a lot more people have taken to staycations which is great for a little break and the economy in the United Kingdom. We thought it would be good to talk about UK staycations and what they actually are.
A lot of people get caught up in prices and locations and that’s not always something to worry about, it depends on how you want to enjoy your time and sometimes you can be in the middle of nowhere, with a cabin and a hot tub and have an amazing staycation away from the rest of the world!
Staycation Meaning
A staycation refers to a period of time in which an individual or a family chooses to stay at home or nearby instead of traveling to a distant location for a vacation. It involves taking time off from work or daily routines to relax, unwind, and explore local attractions, activities, or leisure pursuits within one’s own region or community. Staycations are often chosen as a more budget-friendly or convenient alternative to traditional vacations, allowing individuals to enjoy downtime without the hassle or expense of long-distance travel.
Thankfully, the UK isn’t as big as countries like America so it doesn’t take as long to get to places and we have public transport that can take you pretty much everywhere if you don’t drive.
Why Staycations Are Better
There are many opinions on staycations and not all of them are positive. It’s important to note where you want to go and for how long so that you can find the best staycation deals before you book anything. Always shop around for the best price and of course when children are out of school prices will increase weather you’re a parent or not.
- Cost-effective: Staycations typically involve lower expenses compared to traditional vacations involving travel, accommodation, and dining out. By staying close to home, individuals can save money on transportation and accommodation costs.
- Convenience: Staycations eliminate the stress and hassle of planning and executing a long-distance trip. There’s no need to deal with packing, airport security, or long hours of travel. It allows for a more relaxed and convenient vacation experience.
- Time-saving: Staycations save time that would otherwise be spent on travel, allowing individuals to maximise their vacation time for relaxation and enjoyment.
- Exploration of local attractions: Staycations offer an opportunity to discover and explore nearby attractions, landmarks, and activities that may often be overlooked. It allows individuals to appreciate the beauty and offerings of their own region.
- Support for the local economy: Opting for a staycation can contribute to the local economy by spending money at local businesses, restaurants, and attractions, thereby supporting the community.
- Flexibility: Staycations provide greater flexibility in terms of duration and scheduling. Individuals can plan their activities according to their preferences and interests, without being bound by fixed travel itineraries.
Overall, staycations offer a convenient, affordable, and flexible way to relax, unwind, and enjoy leisure time close to home.
Why Staycations Are Popular
Staycations have gained popularity for several reasons:
- Cost-effectiveness: Staycations typically involve lower expenses compared to traditional vacations involving travel, accommodation, and dining out. By staying close to home, individuals can save money on transportation and accommodation costs, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers.
- Convenience: Staycations eliminate the stress and hassle of planning and executing a long-distance trip. There’s no need to deal with packing, airport security, or long hours of travel. It allows for a more relaxed and convenient vacation experience, particularly for those with limited time off or family obligations.
- Flexibility: Staycations offer greater flexibility in terms of duration and scheduling. Individuals can plan their activities according to their preferences and interests, without being bound by fixed travel itineraries. This flexibility allows for a more personalised and customised vacation experience.
- Exploration of local attractions: Staycations provide an opportunity to discover and explore nearby attractions, landmarks, and activities that may often be overlooked. It allows individuals to appreciate the beauty and offerings of their own region, fostering a sense of connection to their local community.
- Support for the local economy: Opting for a staycation can contribute to the local economy by spending money at local businesses, restaurants, and attractions. This support helps sustain and promote local tourism, benefiting the community as a whole.
- Environmental impact: Staycations typically have a lower carbon footprint compared to long-distance travel, as they involve less transportation and reduce the use of fossil fuels. Choosing a staycation can be seen as a more environmentally friendly option for vacationing.
Overall, the cost-effectiveness, convenience, flexibility, and opportunity for local exploration make staycations an appealing choice for many individuals and families looking to relax and unwind without the need for extensive travel. It does all depend on where you are going and how much your budget is but there are some amazing staycation locations that can be explored for a budget friendly price.
Cheap UK Staycation Locations
Cheap UK staycation locations offer budget-friendly options for travellers seeking affordable getaways without the need for extensive travel. Here are some budget-friendly staycation destinations in the UK:
- Northumberland: Known for its stunning coastline, historic castles, and picturesque countryside, Northumberland offers affordable accommodation options ranging from cosy cottages to budget-friendly B&Bs. Explore attractions such as Alnwick Castle, Hadrian’s Wall, and the Farne Islands.
- Peak District: With its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and scenic walking trails, the Peak District is a budget-friendly destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Stay in affordable guesthouses or campsites and explore attractions such as Chatsworth House, Mam Tor, and the picturesque villages of Bakewell and Castleton.
- Yorkshire Dales: The Yorkshire Dales National Park offers affordable accommodation options, including campsites, hostels, and budget-friendly B&Bs. Explore scenic hiking trails, visit charming market towns like Hawes and Skipton, and discover natural attractions such as Malham Cove and Aysgarth Falls.
- Brecon Beacons: Wales’ Brecon Beacons National Park offers budget-friendly accommodation options, including campsites, bunkhouses, and budget-friendly guesthouses. Explore scenic walking trails, visit waterfalls like Sgwd yr Eira and Henrhyd Falls, and discover historic sites such as Carreg Cennen Castle.
- Norfolk Broads: The Norfolk Broads offer budget-friendly accommodation options, including affordable B&Bs, campsites, and self-catering cottages. Explore the scenic waterways by boat or kayak, visit charming market towns like Wroxham and Horning, and enjoy wildlife spotting in this picturesque area.
- Cornwall: While Cornwall can be a popular tourist destination, there are still budget-friendly options available, especially if you avoid peak tourist seasons. Look for affordable accommodation options in towns like Newquay, St. Ives, and Falmouth, and explore attractions such as St. Michael’s Mount, the Eden Project, and the South West Coast Path.
- Isle of Wight: The Isle of Wight offers budget-friendly accommodation options, including campsites, budget-friendly B&Bs, and self-catering cottages. Explore attractions such as Osborne House, the Needles, and the island’s scenic coastal walks and beaches.
- Scottish Highlands: The Scottish Highlands offer budget-friendly accommodation options, including hostels, campsites, and budget-friendly B&Bs. Explore stunning landscapes, visit historic sites like Urquhart Castle and Eilean Donan Castle, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic drives along the North Coast 500 route.
These are just a few examples of cheap UK staycation locations that offer affordable accommodation options and plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy without breaking the bank.
Are Staycations Worth It?
Whether staycations are worth it depends on individual preferences, circumstances, and the goals of the trip. Here are some factors to consider:
- Cost: Staycations can be more affordable than traditional vacations involving flights and accommodation in far-off destinations. By saving on travel expenses, individuals can allocate their budget to other activities, dining experiences, or treats during their staycation.
- Convenience: Staycations eliminate the need for travel logistics such as booking flights, arranging transportation, and dealing with time zone changes. This can reduce stress and allow individuals to maximise their time off without the hassle of travel-related disruptions.
- Exploration: Staycations provide an opportunity to explore local attractions, landmarks, and hidden gems that may be overlooked in day-to-day life. Residents can discover new restaurants, parks, museums, and cultural events in their own city or region.
- Relaxation: Staycations offer a chance to unwind and recharge without the pressure to sightsee or keep to a strict itinerary. Individuals can enjoy leisurely mornings, lazy days by the pool or beach, and evenings spent at home or exploring nearby neighbourhoods.
- Support the local economy: Opting for a staycation can contribute to the local economy by supporting small businesses, hotels, restaurants, and attractions in the community. This can help sustain jobs and businesses, particularly during times of economic uncertainty.
- Environmental impact: Staycations typically have a lower carbon footprint compared to long-distance travel involving air or road transportation. By reducing travel-related emissions, individuals can minimize their environmental impact and contribute to sustainability efforts.
Ultimately, whether a staycation is worth it depends on personal preferences, interests, and goals. For some, the convenience, affordability, and opportunity to explore local surroundings make staycations a valuable and enjoyable experience. Others may prefer the adventure and novelty of traveling to new destinations.
Staycation Deals
Depending on where you’re looking to stay, staycations can be a little expensive. That’s why it’s always important to find staycation deals. There are various ways to do this but we would always suggest shopping around before booking anywhere and using websites such as TopCashBack to get money back from your purchases.
o find staycation deals in the UK online, you can explore various platforms and websites dedicated to travel and accommodation. Here are some popular options:
- Booking.com: Booking.com offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and vacation homes across the UK. You can filter your search by location, price, and amenities to find staycation deals that suit your preferences.
- Expedia: Expedia provides a comprehensive platform for booking hotels, flights, and vacation packages. You can search for staycation deals in specific cities or regions in the UK and take advantage of special promotions and discounts.
- Airbnb: Airbnb offers unique and often budget-friendly accommodation options, such as private rooms, entire homes, and even glamping sites. You can explore listings in various UK destinations and filter your search based on price, location, and property type.
- Travelzoo: Travelzoo specialises in sourcing exclusive travel deals and offers for its members. You can sign up for free to access discounted staycation packages, hotel stays, and activities in the UK.
- Secret Escapes: Secret Escapes curates luxury hotel stays and holiday packages at discounted rates. You can browse their selection of UK staycation deals and book accommodation in top destinations at reduced prices.
- Groupon: Groupon features deals and vouchers for a wide range of products and services, including travel and accommodation. You can search for staycation offers in the UK and save on hotel stays, spa breaks, and dining experiences.
- Lastminute.com: Lastminute.com offers last-minute deals on hotels, flights, and vacation packages in the UK and worldwide. You can find discounted rates on staycation accommodation and book spontaneous getaways at short notice.
By exploring these platforms and keeping an eye out for special promotions and flash sales, you can find great deals on staycations in the UK and enjoy a memorable holiday without breaking the bank.
Types Of Staycations
There are various staycations you can have depending on your lifestyle. The great thing about having a UK staycation is that you don’t have to board a plane and if you have pets they can be in the car without having to cost a fortune on vet trips and transportation related costs that you’d get if you used a plane or Eurostar type transport.
Staycation For Dogs
There aren’t as many places to have staycations with dogs but thankfully that is improving. You can still find some amazing destinations to enjoy, Scotland has some amazing dog-friendly staycation locations with the great outdoors around them so there’s plenty of places to go for long walks.
Staycation For Family
You will find that the majority of staycations available are for families. There are also places such as Butlins and Centreparcs that offer staycations for families with live entertainment and more activities to do, however, these can be very expensive and even more so on the school holidays.
Staycation For Couples
If you’re looking for a staycation as a couple we would suggest going for somewhere where there’s a hot tub and an area that normally doesn’t have children, so avoid the holiday parks or the more built-up areas otherwise your romantic getaway may be squashed with screaming children running around.
Staycation To Bring List
If you’re going on a staycation you need to make sure you are fully packed. The United Kingdom isn’t Greece and you’re going to need to pack for the location you’re heading to and the right time of year. Take a look below at some of the suggestions we have when it comes to your own staycation to bring list and pack correctly.
DenTek
If you’re looking at planning the perfect staycation then you’re going to want to make sure you look after yourself in the process and that includes oral hygiene. Thankfully DenTek have some amazing travel sized products that fit right into your toiletry bag. You don’t want to leave home without their easy brush, eco-friendly interdental sticks and their comfort picks makes it easy to get any food out of your teeth before the camera starts flashing.
DenTek also have the amazing Temparin Max repair kit that can easily fix any fillings that may have came out, fit any tooth repairs and stick a crown back in until you can see a dentist. We’ve asked our dentists and they’ve all said that the Temparin Max is a great tool to use in case of emergencies until you can see a dentist, what’s not to love.
HayMax
The United Kingdom can be one of the worst places for hay fever and you never know who has stayed in a location before you and if they had pets. Allergies like this are bound to ruin any staycation and that’s why it’s important to take the right medication to ensure you have a safe and fun trip.
HayMax offers protection against allergies such as dust (and we all know some places don’t clean as well as they could) and pet allergies. They are an organic, drug-free allergen barrier balm. They’ve won over 40 awards which is a credit to how amazing they work and they’re travel sized so you don’t have to fiddle about with huge bottles or take any weird pills, what’s not to love!
If you’re looking for a quick, easy and affordable solution to hay fever, dust or pet allergies while you’re enjoying your staycation, HayMax is the way to go!
Warrior Snacks
A staycation will probably mean a journey at some point and who doesn’t want high-protein snacks on a long car journey? Something to keep you full until you hit the next service station and get something to eat. Thankfully, Warrior have some amazing snacks that you can sink your teeth into.
We love their chocolate brownie flapjack and their white chocolate flapjack is to die for. If you want something to tide you over which is also healthy at the same time as delicious, Warrior bars are the way to go!
Children’s Products For Staycations
Keeping children entertained during staycastions can be a challenge but thankfully we have some of the best games that are going to keep them busy, entertained and best of all not complaining that they’re bored.
Bananagrams
Experience the thrill of BANANAGRAMS, the ultimate word game for kids! Race against friends to build word grids and become the “Top Banana.” No pens, paper, or boards are needed—just grab the portable pouch and enjoy endless fun at home or on staycation adventures. Perfect for ages 7 and up!
The Original Telestrations Game
Unleash your child’s creativity and laughter with the hilarious game of drawing and guessing! Get ready for unpredictable fun as you sketch what you see and try to guess the doodles in this exciting staycation game. Perfect for family gatherings and guaranteed entertainment for kids of all ages! It’s also fun for the whole family!
The Sock Game
Embark on a thrilling adventure with the Giant Sock Challenge! Can you feel your way through thirty hidden objects inside the sock? Test your dexterity and have a blast with this hilarious game, ideal for keeping kids entertained during staycations and family gatherings. Perfect for children to play by themselves or for adults to join in and make some amazing memories.
Staycation To Do List
No matter where you go there’s bound to be something fun to get up to. Staycations offer the opportunity to relax and explore your local area without the need for extensive travel. Take a look at the general ideas below for some suggestions on what you could get up to on your staycations;
- Explore Local Attractions: Visit museums, art galleries, historical sites, and landmarks in your city or nearby towns. You might discover hidden gems and learn more about the history and culture of your area.
- Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of parks, nature reserves, hiking trails, and beaches for outdoor adventures. Go for a hike, have a picnic, go birdwatching, or enjoy water sports like kayaking or paddle boarding.
- Culinary Adventures: Treat yourself to local cuisine by dining out at restaurants, cafes, and food markets. Try new dishes, sample street food, or indulge in a gourmet meal at a top-rated eatery.
- Relaxation: Book a spa day or wellness retreat for pampering and relaxation. Treat yourself to massages, facials, and other spa treatments to unwind and recharge.
- Staycation Activities at Home: Transform your home into a vacation retreat by creating a cozy atmosphere. Have a movie marathon, host a game night, or try out new recipes with a cooking or baking session.
- Cultural Experiences: Attend live performances, concerts, theatre productions, or local events happening in your area. Check out music festivals, art exhibitions, or theatre shows for entertainment and cultural enrichment.
- Day Trips: Take day trips to nearby attractions, scenic spots, or neighbouring towns. Explore charming villages, visit botanical gardens, or go on a wine-tasting tour at a nearby vineyard.
- Outdoor Dining: Enjoy al fresco dining experiences at restaurants with outdoor seating or set up a picnic in a scenic location. Pack a picnic basket with your favourite snacks and beverages for a delightful outdoor meal.
- Staycation Activities for Families: Plan family-friendly activities such as visits to amusement parks, zoos, aquariums, or indoor play centres. Organise fun-filled outings that cater to the interests of everyone in the family.
- Staycation Challenges: Create themed staycation challenges or itineraries to make the most of your time off. Challenge yourself to try new activities, complete scavenger hunts, or explore different neighbourhoods in your city.
With a bit of creativity and planning, you can enjoy a rewarding and memorable staycation experience filled with relaxation, adventure, and discovery.