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Brits staying within 85 miles for staycations as fuel costs hit summer holidays

Rising fuel costs are reshaping the great British summer getaway, with millions of Brits planning to stay within just 85 miles of home for their 2026 staycation.

[Multi-Generation Family Walking Along Shoreline Of Beach By Waves Together]

Families are choosing to stay closer to home amid rising costs(Image: Getty Images)

Staycations are becoming increasingly local in 2026 as soaring fuel costs force families to rethink their summer plans. A survey of 2,000 adults who have enjoyed a UK holiday revealed millions are planning to make the most of their immediate surroundings travelling just 85 miles rather than venturing further away.

The research shows one in four of those planning a getaway have ditched a foreign holiday in favour of a UK break. But a striking 62% confessed the cost of travel and fuel has been the key factor in keeping this year's staycation much nearer to home.

A third are opting for a seaside getaway, 27% fancy a countryside camping adventure, and 23% will be indulging in day trips from their front door.

[A full shot of a father, mother, and their two young daughters walking together through tall dunes near the coast]

Brits don't need to travel far to enjoy a 'proper' holiday(Image: Getty Images)

David Howells, camping and travel expert at Halfords which commissioned the study, said: "Summer holidays don't always have to involve a week-long stay somewhere on a plane, but this year we're seeing a real shift towards people rediscovering what's on their doorstep.

"With travel costs front of mind, many are rethinking what a summer break looks like and embracing the charm and convenience of staying closer to home,"

Beyond fuel expenses, 32% have been forced to shorten their trips, while another 32% will need to slash spending on activities and dining out during their stay.

Nevertheless, the research also revealed a bright side, with 35% saying a break nearer to home will cut the overall stress, and 31% can enjoy greater flexibility with their arrangements.

What's more, 65% insisted staycationing closer to home will still feel like a 'proper' holiday to them, according to the OnePoll.com data.

[A charming seaside scene in Southwold, where colourful beach huts, families on the sand, capture the relaxed essence of a classic British coastal day.]

Many families will escape to the coast(Image: Getty Images)

However, hitting the road appears to be some way off yet, as those planning a trip don't currently possess the necessary kit such as roof boxes or bars (69%), tents (59%), or folding chairs (23%).

Precisely a fifth need to make fresh purchases specifically for their forthcoming UK break, with items like camping stoves (30%), sleeping bags (23%), and cool boxes (23%) on the shopping list.

David Howells added: "It seems people are clearly making more considered choices this summer and cutting back on time away and extras once they get there to keep costs under control.

"However, looking at it more positively, staycations near home are giving people the freedom to be more flexible whether that's changing plans last-minute or fitting trips around everyday life.

"A UK break still delivers that all-important sense of escape, proving you don't have to travel far or spend big to enjoy a proper holiday. ".

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