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by Maia Noden / News
Staycation or holiday abroad? It’s a choice many travellers face, and one that isn’t always straightforward.
At Sykes Holiday Cottages, we know the importance of holidays and understand the different factors travellers consider when choosing between a UK staycation or a holiday abroad.
According to recent research by Go.Compare, 40% of people said they didn’t choose a staycation because they went abroad, implying that many travellers often can’t afford to do both.
Whether you’re hoping for sunny shores or the rolling British countryside, there are a few important things to weigh up before locking anything in. With money, time and convenience all playing a part, it’s more important than ever to choose a getaway that’s right for you.
Continue reading to discover whether a staycation or an abroad trip suits you best…
| 🧳 Factor | 🏡 Staycation | ✈️ Holiday Abroad |
|---|---|---|
| 💰 Cost | ✔️ No flights, fewer extras, better for budgets | ❌ Flights, insurance and extras quickly add up |
| 🛂 Convenience | ✔️ No airports, no queues, just drive and go! | ❌ Planning, passports and check-ins |
| 🌦 Weather | ❓ Can be unpredictable | ☀️ Often sunnier and more reliable |
| 🕒 Travel Time | ✔️ Quick getaways, no jet lag or long waits | ❌ Early check-ins, delays and long-haul travel times |
| 🗓 Flexibility | ✔️ Great for last-minute plans, weekend breaks and spontaneous stays | ❌ Needs more planning and tends to be harder to book on a whim |
| 🌍 Sustainability | ✔️ Low-carbon option, ideal for eco-conscious travellers | ❌ Flying increases your carbon footprint |
| 🏞 Experiences | ✔️ Castles, beaches, hiking trails, cosy pubs | ✔️ New cultures, cuisines and languages |
| 😌 Stress Levels | ✔️ Easier with kids, pets, and luggage | ❌ Airport stress, connections, new languages |
| 🧳 Factor | 🏡 Staycation | ✈️ Holiday Abroad |
|---|---|---|
| 💰 Cost | ✔️ No flights, fewer extras, better for budgets | ❌ Flights, insurance, and extras quickly add up |
| 🛂 Convenience | ✔️ No airports, no queues - just drive and go! | ❌ Planning, passports and check-ins |
| 🌦 Weather | ❓ Can be unpredictable, but UK summers are improving | ☀️ Often sunnier and more reliable |
| 🕒 Travel Time | ✔️ Quick getaways, no jet lag or long waits | ❌ Early check-ins, delays and long-haul travel times |
| 🗓 Flexibility | ✔️ Great for last-minute plans, weekend breaks and spontaneous stays | ❌ Needs more planning and tends to be harder to book on a whim |
| 🌍 Sustainability | ✔️ Low-carbon option – ideal for eco-conscious travellers | ❌ Flying increases your carbon footprint |
| 🏞 Experiences | ✔️ Castles, beaches, hiking trails, cosy pubs | ✔️ New cultures, cuisines and languages |
| 😌 Stress Levels | ✔️ Easier with kids, pets, and luggage | ❌ Airport stress, connections, foreign logistics |
While both options offer unique advantages, staycations clearly come out on top for cost, convenience and flexibility.
Staycations are ideal for those looking to save money, avoid airport stress or book a last-minute escape. That said, if guaranteed sunshine, cultural discovery and a complete change of scenery are high on your holiday wish list, then a trip abroad might still be the better fit.
Ultimately, it’s about choosing the getaway that suits your needs, budget and travel style best.
According to the 2025 Sykes Staycation Index, 63% of Brits took a UK break last year, with 34% planning to make it their main holiday in 2025. This highlights that staycations are no longer a short‑term trend, but a lasting shift in how people choose to travel.
This is reinforced by VisitBritain’s Domestic Sentiment Tracker, which found that 75% of UK adults still intend to take an overnight trip within the UK, while overseas travel intent has fallen more sharply to 58%. Together, these findings point to a growing preference for staying closer to home when planning a holiday.
Let’s unpack why a staycation might be better for you…
Imagine waking up, packing a few bags, loading the car, and setting off! Yes, you heard that right… no long security queues, no passport checks, and no stressful check-ins.
UK staycations offer a gentle way to ease you into your break. You can just leave the house and arrive at your accommodation with no jet lag or passport panic. It’s no wonder that 35% of people say UK breaks are simply less stressful than going abroad.
Picture arriving at a coastal cottage in Cornwall. Bags are unpacked by midday, and you’re heading to the golden sands of Porthcurno beach. Here, you can unwind, wander around Minack Theatre and enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing, just you and the sea breeze! Or, why not settle into the heart of the countryside in a cosy Lake District cabin, where the only queues you’ll face are for a hearty bit of pub grub?
For families, this ease of travel is invaluable. There’s no juggling suitcases, prams, and overtired kids in an airport. And for those with four-legged friends? The car boot becomes the perfect pet carrier straight to your getaway.
Compared to holidays abroad, staycations allow for spontaneity, perfect for when you’re just after a change of scenery. Fancy a weekend away in the countryside? You can be unpacked and exploring within hours.
With some of the best UK destinations reachable within a couple of hours, it’s far easier to plan a quick escape without all the hurdles that often come with travelling abroad.
This isn’t just our opinion either; our research found that 38% of Brits say holidays closer to home are simply easier. Go.Compare’s research supports this, with 11% saying they didn’t have enough time for a trip abroad. Our internal booking data also showed that lead times (time between booking and holiday start date) dropped by 8%, showing that the trend for short, flexible UK breaks is here to stay.
If I was planning a Friday evening escape, I’d head to Wales which offers a wealth of opportunities for a short weekend visit. It offers the chance to explore the coast of Pembrokeshire, admire the landscapes of Snowdonia National Park, or scrub up on some local history in the city of Cardiff.
There’s no need to worry about flights or Visas, just pick your spot and go. With memorable breaks closer than ever, it’s easy to see why quick UK getaways are becoming so popular.
With no flights or added airport extras eating into your budget, more of your holiday spend can go towards making memorable moments. Don’t just take our word for it; 35% of people say UK breaks are cheaper, and over a fifth say they can’t afford to go abroad at all.
The beauty of staying in the UK is that you can choose how you spend. You can holiday in style with a luxury property, one with unforgettable sea views or one with a bubbling hot tub.
Prefer to keep things simple? Check out our guide to booking a staycation on a budget which covers how you can choose a budget-friendly break that still has beautiful surroundings and things to do without the hefty price tag.
If you’re looking to save even more during your UK stay, take a look at these cheap UK holiday destinations and find the best location for you. From Southern Scotland and the North York Moors to North Wales and Anglesey, these cheaper destinations offer countless activities and experiences; there’s something for everyone.
Travelling with children or pets abroad can be… unpredictable. With flight delays, overwhelming airports and noisy resorts, it’s sometimes far easier for families and pet owners to stay within the UK.
Accommodation in the UK is often priced per property, not per person, meaning UK stays are usually more cost-effective for larger families and groups.
With amazing destinations for families, these trips are also a brilliant way to spend quality time together without the stress of long travel. Dorset is one of the most popular amongst families, with Bournemouth in particular offering everything from sandy beaches and funfair rides to arcades, live shows at the Pavilion Theatre and plenty of family-friendly amenities all within easy reach.
Plus, the UK is incredibly dog-friendly. At Sykes we know how many people are searching for the best dog-friendly destinations; in 2025 alone, we welcomed over 225,000 dogs on staycations!
A really popular UK holiday destination for dogs and their owners is the Lake District National Park. Windermere stands out as a particularly dog-friendly area, with lots of pretty walks and dog-friendly pubs, and lake cruises that welcome your furry friend on board for free; there’s lots to see and do with your pooch.
With so much choice (and far less of a faff), it’s easy to see why UK holidays are such a hit with families and furry companions alike.
From golden sands to rugged mountain landscapes, historic cities to bucket-list adventures, the UK is packed with variety. Travelling just an hour can feel like a whole new experience; uncover some of the best national parks, a range of English Heritage sites and some of the most exotic beaches right on your doorstep.
In the Lake District, you can enjoy thrilling watersports, discover incredible waterfalls, and explore with these amazing Lake District walks. You can also discover charming spots like Ambleside and Windermere offering something for everyone.
If dramatic scenery is your thing, the Scottish Highlands ensure breathtaking views, with remote lochs and unforgettable walking routes that are perfect for switching off. The majestic landscapes of Glencoe are sure to leave you in awe, with striking valley surroundings and pure serenity.
Not only is it incredibly scenic, but you can also explore the famous film locations from Harry Potter and Skyfall. A short journey away, you have the iconic Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, while Fort William sits at its base for those hoping for plenty of food options and a more relaxed pace.
The Cotswolds also remain a firm favourite when it comes to incredible landscapes thanks to its rolling hills, farm shops and walking trails through the countryside. Picture-perfect chocolate-box villages like Bibury and Bourton-on-the-Water make it a romantic and relaxing escape for you and your loved one.
There’s really no shortage of inspiration, so get exploring these beautiful UK destinations and find the perfect stay for you!
Staying in the UK means no language barriers, no international driving and fewer unknowns. For travellers with accessibility needs, it’s often much simpler to stay local, where you can be confident in the services and support available.
From step-free access at York Minster to accessible walking routes around Derwentwater in the Lakes, it’s easier than ever to plan ahead and feel confident about what to expect. In York, many of the historic streets are relatively flat and easy to navigate, while attractions like the National Railway Museum offer excellent accessibility and facilities.
The city also provides a range of guided tours and accessible routes, making it a confident choice for visitors of all abilities.
Around Derwentwater, you’ll find well-maintained paths that are suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, boasting tranquil lake views without the need for challenging terrain. Accessible boat trips across the lake also make for a relaxing way to take in the surrounding scenery.
Public transport networks like the West Coast Main Line and Great Western Railway make it simple to travel between key destinations, and accessible taxi services are available in most towns too.
Whether you’re exploring castle ruins, relaxing in a countryside lodge, or strolling along a level seafront promenade, UK staycations make it easier to travel on your own terms.
For environmentally conscious travellers, staycations often mean lower emissions, especially when avoiding flights. They also help boost the local economy. In fact, domestic tourism was forecast to contribute £24 billion to the UK economy last summer, supporting jobs and businesses across the country.
Plus, many UK holiday providers are offering more eco-friendly stays, with options like off-grid glamping escapes, cottages with EV charging points, or sustainable activities like wildlife walks and farm experiences.
Staying closer to home is a great way to enjoy a more sustainable holiday, reducing your overall environmental footprint. You’ll be supporting local economies and naturally spending less time travelling, especially when choosing eco-friendly cottages.
Ranked as one of the UK’s greenest cities, Bristol is a top destination for those wanting to make a difference. There are plenty of cycling networks, including the Bristol to Bath Railway Path and a wealth of green spots, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxed picnic lunches.
The city of Edinburgh is another fantastic choice for a more sustainable city break. You can visit many of its historic attractions, including Edinburgh Castle, while exploring on foot. The Royal Botanic Garden is also great for an afternoon out, and best of all, it’s free to enter!
So, while you unwind, you’re also doing something positive for the planet and the people who live in these beautiful places. There are also plenty of other sustainable tips for UK travel.
While staycations continue to grow in popularity, there’s no denying the big appeal of a trip overseas. For many people, holidays abroad offer the chance to break away from familiarity and explore somewhere completely new.
Whether it’s sun-soaked beaches, a fresh change of scenery or an entirely different culture, there’s plenty of reasons why millions of Brits still travel beyond the UK each year.
One of the most exciting parts of travelling abroad is the opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures; trying new cuisines, hearing different languages, and learning about local traditions. Whether you’re trying tapas in Spain, exploring street markets in Morocco, or roaming ancient ruins in Greece, it’s a world away from day-to-day life.
That being said, there are plenty of ways to experience different cultures without leaving the country. From the Celtic heritage of Wales and Scotland to the Cornish language and Northern Irish traditions, there are endless opportunities waiting to be explored.
Still, according to Go.Compare, 13% of people said they didn’t take a staycation because they weren’t interested in UK attractions or destinations, showing that interest in something completely different remains strong for some.
For many, the decision to head abroad comes down to one main factor; the weather. If you’re craving guaranteed sunshine, a UK holiday might not always deliver.
Popular destinations like Spain, Portugal and Italy offer consistent warmth and blue skies that are sometimes hard to come by at home. That said, the UK still has plenty to offer when it comes to enjoying the sunshine.
The South West and parts of Wales enjoy some of the UK’s best summer sunshine. When the sun does make an appearance, there’s nothing quite like a UK beach day. Seaside towns come alive in the sunshine, with ice cream in hand, fish and chips by the sea, and plenty of sandy castles. Nostalgia is in the air.
Plus, many UK breaks, including those with Sykes, now offer flexible cancellation terms, allowing you to cancel should the weather take a turn*.
*subject to flexible cancellation terms and conditions.
There’s truly no shortage of natural beauty in the UK, but travelling abroad allows you to experience entirely different types of landscapes. From volcanic islands and quaint old towns to tropical beaches with crystal-clear waters, the variety found abroad is often a big draw.
Still, in our opinion, the UK holds its own with plenty of UK destinations dupes, where you might just feel like you’re abroad.
Northumberland is home to some of the most unspoilt coastline in the UK, with vast stretches of golden sands and pretty surroundings. Bamburgh Beach is a standout, boasting sweeping views of the iconic castle and plenty of long walks.
Dorset‘s coastline is equally as impressive, known for its dramatic cliffs and famous landmarks along the Jurassic Coast. From Durdle Door to Lulworth Cove, it’s a superb destination for coastal walks and sea views.
With rugged mountains and quaint valleys, Snowdonia offers a completely different kind of beauty. It’s the perfect place for walkers to get lost in the beautiful rolling landscapes and enjoy an adventurous escape.
When it comes down to it, there’s no right or wrong answer. Holidays abroad offer guaranteed sunshine, cultural exploration and a complete change of pace, while staycations provide value, convenience and flexibility; great for those short on time or travelling with pets.
Recent industry data also shows that people are becoming more cautious, prioritising value, flexibility and ease when booking their getaways, which is why UK breaks continue to appeal to so many.
As specialists in UK travel, we certainly know how to make the most of a British break. Whether it’s uncovering the top hidden gems, finding the best dog-friendly beaches or securing great value at the last minute, we’re here to help you plan a staycation that ticks every box, whatever the weather.
The data referenced in this article is drawn from the 2025 Sykes Staycation Index, which combines booking insights and consumer research to analyse holiday trends among UK travellers.
Booking data is sourced from Sykes Holiday Cottages, using internal insights from holiday bookings across the UK to identify patterns in staycation demand, traveller behaviour and destination popularity.
This is complemented by consumer research conducted by OnePoll in April 2025, which surveyed 2,000 UK adults about their holiday preferences, travel plans and attitudes towards staycations versus holidays abroad.
Additional insights referenced in this article are informed by Go.Compare’s analysis on UK getaway pricing, published in their blog “How do Staycation Costs Compare to Holidays Abroad?”, which explores the relative costs of domestic holidays compared with overseas trips. We’ve also used the findings of VisitBritain’s Domestic Sentiment Trackers for March 2026.
Together, these sources provide a combined view of real booking behaviour, consumer sentiment and broader travel cost comparisons to inform the insights presented in this article.
Ready to start planning your next escape? Explore our collection of all available UK holiday cottages and secure your dream stay today!
by Maia Noden / News
Hi! I'm Maia, and I have been working in UK travel since January 2024. I’m originally from Chester, and I studied Journalism at ...
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