UK Tourism Survey proves reality of staycationing

Following figures from the UK Tourism Survey released by VisitEngland, the reality of the staycationing phenomenon has been proven. James Berresford, VisitEngland chief executive, confirmed that the staycation was not an invention of British travel companies and that holidaymakers had elected to remain within the UK, particularly over the summer months.

Despite the dismal weather, trips taken by Britons within the UK rose by 22% between June and August. And to dispel fears that people decided to stay at home rather than take a holiday elsewhere, spending over the period also rose by about 20%.

Berresford said: “With people tightening their belts and foregoing overseas travel for a break at home, the staycation stopped being about ’staying in your house and your own garden’ and became all about getting out there and enjoying the best of England, from exploring new towns and cities, camping, visiting attractions and enjoying a variety of activities.”

Between June and August, trips to the English seaside increased by 24% while family holidays saw a 33% growth compared with the same period in 2008. Similarly, a big winner of the staycation phenomenon was the self-catering sector, which enjoyed a robust 25% growth (21% growth for camping and caravanning).

VisitEngland also revealed that cost considerations were not the only reason pushing people to stay in Britain with a focus group research showing that there was a range of younger travellers who felt almost embarrassed at their lack of knowledge of the UK, which encouraged them to stay at home and explore.

And with no sign of recovery for the economy as yet, it would appear that staycationing will remain strong in 2010 as well.