20 February 2023 , 14:34
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Blackpool, Cardiff, and Liverpool have topped a list of the best budget staycation spots around the UK.
As the cost-of-living crisis continues to squeeze expenses, one in three Brits (34%) are planning to book a staycation trip this year, while 23% have already done so.
And with 75% saying that they hope to make their money go further when it comes to accommodation, one iconic seaside town came out above the rest – home of the world-famous illuminations, Blackpool.
The poll of 2,000 adults saw the north-western destination take the lead across four categories – accommodation, activities, eating out, and transport.
Other beach break locations that made the top 10 list included Brighton, Skegness, Whitby, and Scarborough.
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And three Northern favourites rounded out the top 10 budget holidays – Newcastle, Morecambe, and York.
And Cardiff ranks highest for best cheap city breaks (SWNS)Graham Donoghue, chief executive of holiday letting agency Sykes Holiday Cottages, which commissioned the research, said: “Blackpool is an iconic British holiday destination. Not only does it encapsulate the best of a quintessential seaside staycation, but it also offers great value for money.
“With the rising cost of living continuing to put a squeeze on budgets, many holidaymakers will be looking to see where they can get the best value for money on holidays this year.
“Making travel plans closer to home could be an ideal solution, as it is easier to stick to a holiday budget while still spending quality time with loved ones.”
The research also revealed 27% of holidaymakers are more likely to book a staycation this year due to the rising cost of living.
A massive 94% said it is important to them that they are getting good value for money when booking a holiday – however, 26% of those who are planning to go away this year said their holiday kitties have decreased because of the rising costs they are contending with.
The study, conducted via OnePoll, found the average traveller will set aside nearly £1,800 for their trips this year.
To help keep within their budgets, one in three will book their getaways out of peak seasons, while 29% will spend more time researching the best deals.
And 28% will book self-catering accommodation so they can keep the cost of meals down while away.
But despite having less money than usual to go away with, almost two-thirds (64%) will not let it deter them from having a memorable trip.
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Graham Donoghue added: “Despite the cost-of-living crisis, millions of Brits are still eager to get away in 2023, with many opting to stay in the UK instead of heading abroad on their holidays to keep costs down.
“But who can really blame them when there is much to love about going on staycations?
“Throughout the UK, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to a diverse range of landscapes, activities, and history to enjoy, offering multiple opportunities to create lifelong memories for all groups of travellers, no matter what your budget is.”
To help holidaymakers looking for an affordable getaway this year, Sykes Holiday Cottages has compiled a roundup of the UK's best value destinations, alongside tips and insights on how to stick to a budget, which can be found here.
TOP 10 BEST BUDGET STAYCATION HOTSPOTS:
- Blackpool
- Cardiff
- Liverpool
- Brighton
- Skegness
- Scarborough
- Newcastle
- Morecambe
- Whitby
- York