- Over a third of Brits (35%) plan to holiday in the UK, with 30% admitting it’s more cost-effective than holidaying abroad
- August overtakes June as the peak month for UK stays
- Almost half of 18-24 year olds turn to Instagram and TikTok for holiday inspiration
As 2025 comes to an end, Travelodge’s third annual Travel Trends Report*, surveying 2,000 British adults, has revealed the biggest shifts in the nation’s 2026 escape plans.
The findings confirm that UK staycations are front of mind, with 52% of Brits confirming they will take a domestic holiday alongside one abroad in 2026 – a jump from 43% last year. Almost one in five (19%) said they’re only planning a UK holiday in 2026.
Just over half (53%) of respondents said they plan to take two to three additional trips on top of their main holiday, with 15% planning four or more additional trips.
August has overtaken June as the most popular month for UK travel, compared to 2025. The 2026 report has revealed that 14% of Brits are pushing back their holiday to later in the summer in August, with 13% choosing June and 11% opting for July.
Coastal (35%) and city breaks (18%) dominate the top five holiday types Brits are planning, followed by rural breaks, activity holidays and heritage / historical trips. Over half of 18-34 year olds are opting for a city break (58%), choosing culture and nightlife over sand and sea.
Good old-fashioned recommendations from friends and family still win as the preferred source of travel inspiration (39%), but social media is rapidly gaining ground for destination hunting, with almost half (49%) of 18-24 year olds turning to Instagram and 42% to TikTok.
Location (52%), value for money (50%) and visiting new places (32%) remain the most important planning factors for travellers.
Over a third of Brits (35%) confirmed they are choosing to holiday in the UK as it’s easier than going abroad and 30% admitted it’s more cost effective. A quarter (25%) of Brits will choose cheaper accommodation, such as budget hotels, to manage their holiday spend. For 18-44 year olds, value for money is the single most important factor when choosing a getaway, whereas for 45-54 year olds, location comes out on top (63%).
Over a third of Brits (36%) confirmed they will be travelling to their chosen holiday destination by car this year, with the most popular UK destinations being:
- Cornwall 6. Peak District
- Lake District 7. Cotswolds
- London 8. Manchester
- Edinburgh 9. York
- Devon 10. Isle of Wight
A Travelodge spokesperson said: “Location and value for money are generally front of mind when it comes to planning a holiday and next year looks no different. It’s fantastic to see the great British getaway not only holding strong but actively growing, with the tradition of exploring our stunning coastline, historic cities and national parks set to thrive in 2026.
“Whether you’re chasing that perfect viral Instagram view or simply seeking a reliable, cost-effective base for a family trip, our nationwide network of over 610 UK hotels means there is always a Travelodge nearby to support your staycation.”
Travelodge has upgraded approximately two-thirds of rooms across its UK hotels with its new next-generation design featuring king-sized Dreamer beds, blackout curtains, USB charging ports and a comfy armchair, perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing or travelling.