MORE than 25million adults are not going on holiday abroad this year.
New research by National Rail has revealed that over 25million adults aren’t travelling abroad for a holiday this year, opting for staycations instead.
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Nearly half of Brits are not going on holiday abroad this year, turning to staycations instead Credit: Getty
The decision not to travel abroad is due to several factors but mainly including the cost of living, travel disruption, hassle of airports and the ongoing jet fuel supply shortage.
A poll of 2,000 Brits found that 48 per cent aren’t planning a foreign holiday for 2026, with the cost of living being the main reason (33 per cent).
Instead, many are choosing to stay in the UK, commenting that they want to see more of the country as well as not get stuck abroad.
In fact, over a third of those asked (34 per cent) revealed that the recent jet fuel supply shortages have impacted their holiday plans this year.
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In addition, 22 per cent said that they don’t mind that they haven’t booked a trip abroad yet and 19 per cent shared that they feel it is not worth booking holidays abroad at the moment.
Around a quarter of respondents said they were excited to explore the UK more this year, with 46 per cent agreeing that the country has a lot of great destinations.
Top places mentioned for planned staycations include the Lake District (17 per cent), Devon (15 per cent) and Cornwall (15 per cent).
Around 36 per cent of staycationers plan to travel on holiday by train as well, with reasons including that rail helps people to discover new places.
Top UK staycations spots include the Lake District, Devon, Cornwall Credit: Alamy
Of those asked, 82 per cent said that travelling by train on holiday is favourable, with picturesque views out of the window (35 per cent), the journey becoming part of the holiday (30 per cent) and being able to make time for things they enjoy – such as reading (25 per cent) listed as reasons why.
There’s also been a 10 per cent increase in rail ticket sales between April and mid-May for summer travel to Britain’s most popular coastal destinations.
Sarah Apps, for National Rail, said: “The research shows we’re seeing a real shift in how people are thinking about their summer holidays this year – with more looking to discover just how rewarding a Great British break can be.
“From breathtaking coastlines to vibrant cities and a peaceful countryside, there’s an incredible variety of destinations easily accessible by train.
“It’s great to see so many embracing the chance to discover places that feel a world away, without having to travel too far from home.”
Around a third of people feel that staycations allow them to create nostalgic memories as well, with 22 per cent saying you can’t beat a summer break in the UK.
The favourite reasons for having a staycation? Seeing more of their home country (35 per cent) and enjoying home comforts (29 per cent).
Sarah added: “Staycations can feel like a real home away from home, while giving people more time to connect with the people who matter most.
“Whether it’s discovering somewhere new or rediscovering an old favourite, it’s about making the most of the experience from start to finish.
“Travelling by train means your holiday can begin the moment you step on board – giving you time back to spend exactly as you choose.
“On the train you can relax with a good book, watch your favourite show, or chat and play games with family and friends.”
The top 20 reasons for not going on holiday abroad this year
Cost of living
Ease of travel in Britain
No airport hassle
I prefer holidaying in Britain
The general price of holidays abroad has risen
I want to see more of Great Britain instead
I don’t have a valid passport
I don’t want to risk getting stuck in another country
I don’t want to risk the flight being cancelled by airlines
I’d rather support the local economy
Due to the current fuel shortage
I truly relax on a holiday at home
I’m putting the money I’d spend on a holiday abroad towards something else instead
I’m focusing on my home instead e.g. home improvements, moving house
I have a fear of flying
You simply can’t beat Britain in the summertime
I’m concerned about the environmental impact of going abroad
I have young children so would rather be closer to home
I’d have to go during school holidays and it’s too expensive
I’m holidaying with relatives who struggle to go abroad (e.g., due to their age or health)
