Travel Trends
UK Holidaymakers Embrace ‘Last-Minute, Local, Shorter Stays’ Breaks: The Surge in Bookings for Domestic Stays as Cost of Living and Hot Weather Shape Travel Trends
Published on
August 8, 2025 |
By: TTW News Desk
As the cost of living continues to rise and global travel faces unpredictable challenges, British holidaymakers are increasingly opting for last-minute, shorter, and more localized trips within the UK. This shift in behavior, largely influenced by a desire to save money while making the most of hot weather, has become a dominant trend in 2025, with many booking domestic getaways later than usual, often with just days’ notice.
This phenomenon has not only changed the way Britons are vacationing but is also reshaping the dynamics of the UK travel and tourism sector. Travel companies, including major platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb, have reported a surge in searches for UK-based trips, with a growing number of travelers seeking spontaneous breaks close to home.
In this article, we delve into the impact of this shift on the UK travel industry, exploring why Britons are booking “later, closer, and shorter” stays, and how these trends are affecting the broader tourism landscape.
Booking Trends in 2025: The Rise of Spontaneous Getaways
One of the most striking trends in the UK’s travel sector in 2025 is the increase in last-minute bookings for domestic holidays. Platforms like Booking.com report a 28% rise in searches for UK trips made within six weeks of departure, compared to the previous year. Similarly, Airbnb has noted an uptick in Britons “embracing spontaneous getaways close to home.”
The rising popularity of short breaks is in part a response to economic factors, with more travelers opting to stay closer to home to save on the costs of international flights, accommodation, and other travel expenses. According to Pitchup.com, a site that advertises over 3,000 UK campsites, nearly a quarter of bookings for 2025 were made with just two days’ notice. The convenience and affordability of last-minute booking options are appealing to many, as they allow for more flexibility in uncertain times.
These trends also highlight a shift in holiday preferences, with more Britons opting for shorter, more frequent breaks rather than longer stays abroad. This is especially evident among families who are finding that short domestic holidays allow for a refreshing change of scenery without the added stress or expense of international travel.
The Impact of the Cost of Living Crisis on UK Travel Choices
The ongoing cost of living crisis in the UK has had a profound effect on travel behavior. As household budgets become tighter, many Britons are reassessing their travel plans and looking for more affordable options. Shorter breaks, close to home, allow families and individuals to enjoy the benefits of a getaway while keeping costs manageable.
One of the key factors driving this trend is the desire to avoid the additional costs associated with overseas holidays, such as flights, currency exchange, and expensive international travel insurance. Domestic travel eliminates these expenses, making UK holidays more attractive in the current economic climate. Additionally, many travel providers are responding to the demand for more budget-friendly holidays by offering tailored packages for families, such as all-inclusive resort stays or weekend camping options, which help keep costs predictable.
Airbnb has also noted that more people are booking shorter stays in quieter, more affordable destinations. This shift suggests that travelers are seeking out less crowded, lower-cost alternatives to major tourist hubs like London or Edinburgh, instead opting for regions with a more relaxed pace and lower costs. This trend reflects a growing desire for a balance between leisure and practicality, with travelers prioritizing value without sacrificing experience.
The Influence of Hot Weather on Domestic Travel
In addition to financial considerations, hot weather is playing a significant role in the shift toward shorter, more spontaneous holidays. With the UK experiencing increasingly warmer summers, many Brits are opting to make the most of sunny spells by booking domestic breaks at short notice. This trend is particularly prominent in coastal regions, countryside areas, and popular spots like Cornwall, Norfolk, and the Lake District.
The recent trend of heatwaves across the UK has encouraged many families to look for local getaways that offer a chance to enjoy the sun without having to travel too far from home. AirBnB and other booking platforms have reported increased demand for properties located near the coast or in rural areas, where holidaymakers can take advantage of both the warm weather and the proximity to nature.
With international travel often requiring months of planning, the flexibility of booking local, last-minute holidays in the UK has become a more attractive option for those eager to seize opportunities for outdoor activities, beach days, or peaceful retreats when the weather is favorable.
Changing Preferences in Family Travel: Shorter Stays and Closer Destinations
The shift toward “later, closer, shorter” breaks has been particularly noticeable among families. Shorter holidays within the UK offer a convenient way to take a break from routine without the stress and expense of international travel. For many families, the ability to book a trip on short notice and take advantage of warm weather is a significant draw.
Butlin’s, one of the UK’s largest holiday park chains, has seen a marked increase in last-minute bookings, with a 22% rise in reservations made in the final two weeks before the holiday date. This trend indicates that more families are opting for flexible, short stays in well-established, affordable domestic resorts where all-inclusive packages offer convenience and value for money.
Shorter UK breaks also offer families more opportunities to reconnect with nature and enjoy the outdoors. The popularity of camping, in particular, has surged as families look for budget-friendly ways to spend time together. Companies like Manor Wood Country Caravan Park have reported an uptick in bookings, with more people choosing to enjoy the UK’s natural beauty on their terms. The affordability of camping and glamping options, coupled with the ability to book on short notice, has made it a more appealing choice for families who want a break but need to stay within their financial means.
The Revival of UK Camping: A Growing Trend
Camping has made a significant comeback in the UK, as many travelers are opting for the simplicity and affordability of this holiday style. Camping offers a break from the stresses of modern life, allowing individuals and families to reconnect with nature without the high costs associated with international travel.
Decathlon and GO Outdoors, two of the UK’s leading camping retailers, have reported significant increases in sales of camping equipment. Decathlon has seen a 60% increase in the sales of family tents compared to the previous year, while GO Outdoors has experienced a 20% increase in camping equipment sales. Many families are upgrading their camping gear, adding comforts like mattresses, carpets, and furniture to enhance their experience and make camping more enjoyable.
The appeal of camping lies in its flexibility. With camping sites scattered across the UK, families can easily find a destination that suits their needs, from coastal locations to rural retreats. Furthermore, the affordability and simplicity of camping mean that it’s an attractive option for those looking for short breaks close to home.
The Future of UK Travel Trends: Shorter, Closer, More Affordable
The trend of booking shorter, closer, and more affordable UK breaks is likely to continue in the coming years, as economic pressures and the desire for flexibility in travel planning remain significant factors. Travel providers, from holiday parks to hotels and campsites, are adjusting to these changes by offering more flexible booking options, value-driven packages, and last-minute deals designed to appeal to today’s cost-conscious traveler.
The increased demand for domestic breaks is reshaping the UK’s tourism sector, with more businesses catering to short-term, spontaneous bookings. As international travel remains uncertain for some and domestic options become more appealing, UK tourism is benefiting from the growing preference for local holidays.
Additionally, with the ongoing popularity of “staycations,” the UK tourism industry will likely continue to focus on creating unique, memorable experiences within its borders. From coastal getaways to countryside retreats, and from luxurious resorts to simple camping trips, the UK offers a wide variety of experiences for every type of traveler, regardless of budget or time constraints.
Conclusion: A New Era for UK Holidays
In conclusion, the shift toward “later, closer, shorter” UK breaks in 2025 reflects a changing landscape in the British travel market. As holidaymakers prioritize affordability, spontaneity, and local experiences, the tourism industry is evolving to meet these demands. With last-minute bookings becoming the norm, the UK’s diverse holiday offerings, from seaside resorts to countryside escapes, are set to see continued success. As travelers embrace the flexibility of domestic holidays, the future of UK tourism looks poised for growth, providing more opportunities for individuals and families to create lasting memories, no matter how short or spontaneous the trip may be.
SANTO DOMINGO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) announces a strengthened partnership with the Dominican Republic to enhance cruise tourism and generate long-term benefits for the country’s economy, communities, and cruise guests.
During a series of high-level meetings between FCCA leadership and the Dominican Republic’s tourism and port authorities, both parties committed to a shared vision: to position the Dominican Republic as a premier cruise destination in the Caribbean by delivering exceptional guest experiences, supporting local communities, and driving sustainable growth.
FCCA President Adam Ceserano.
“This partnership goes far beyond cruise calls,” said Michele Paige, CEO of FCCA. “It’s about creating long-term opportunities for the people of the Dominican Republic. Together, we’re identifying actionable ways to improve the guest experience, increase economic benefits, and support infrastructure development that will position the country as a regional leader.”
The collaboration includes plans for improving the quality and consistency of shore excursions, integrating more locally made products and cultural experiences into the cruise offering, enhancing workforce training, and addressing key port and operational improvements.
FCCA also emphasized the importance of cost containment to ensure continued growth, including competitive port pricing and sustainable tourism development strategies that will encourage more cruise lines to invest in long-term deployment.
“This alliance will help the Dominican Republic harness the full economic potential of cruise tourism,” added Paige. “By working hand-in-hand with the government, ports, and private sector, we are building a model of collaboration that benefits everyone – from cruise lines and passengers to local vendors and communities.”
Dominican Republic’s Minister of Tourism David Collado.
The strengthened partnership forms part of the FCCA’s Strategic Partnership Program, which works with destinations to identify needs, match opportunities, and build long-term relationships between the cruise industry and local stakeholders.
With this strengthened alliance, the Dominican Republic is clearly emerging as a powerhouse in cruise tourism. By partnering with FCCA, the country now has a strategic path forward to achieve its goals – from enhancing the visitor experience to maximizing economic opportunities and promoting sustainable tourism development.
As a testament to this growing relationship, the Dominican Republic will also host FCCA’s prestigious PAMAC Destination Summit, which will take place in June 2026 and join key cruise executives with destination and tourism leaders to further strengthen ties and explore new opportunities for growth.
The article FCCA and Dominican Republic strengthen partnership to boost cruise tourism first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
WASHINGTON – Starting Thursday, Aug. 28, customers can travel on Amtrak’s NextGen Acela – America’s high-speed train – connecting the Northeast Corridor between Washington, D.C., New York City, and Boston.
This historic launch introduces:
- More trains: 28 brand-new trains entering service through 2027
- More seats: 27% more seats per departure
- More service: Expanded weekday and weekend schedules
“NextGen Acela is more than a new train—it’s an evolution of travel,” said Amtrak President Roger Harris. “In just a few weeks, history will be made with the debut of NextGen Acela as we launch a new standard for American train travel.”
What to expect
- How to book your seat: Amtrak offers a simple and flexible approach to booking, seat selection, itinerary management, and even changes in the event of disruptions through the Amtrak mobile app, Amtrak website, and at station kiosks. As the official launch date approaches, customers should look for more information from Amtrak about how to locate and select the NextGen Acela train options. In the coming months, Amtrak will be operating both the current Acela equipment and the NextGen Acela trains as the new trains transition into the fleet.
- Premium onboard features: The new NextGen Acela offers an elevated experience, with features and amenities that today’s savvy travelers expect, plus everything they need to be productive along the way: free, high-speed 5G-enabled Wi-Fi, as well as individual power outlets and reading lights.
- More trains on the way: Five sleek new trainsets will be in service initially, with more trains joining the fleet through 2027.
Built in America, for America
-
The NextGen Acela fleet was assembled at Alstom’s facility in Hornell, NY by skilled Machinists Union workers, using components from over 180 suppliers across 29 states – creating approximately 15,000 U.S. jobs.*
Part of a bigger transformation
-
NextGen Acela is a key component of Amtrak’s broader fleet modernization plan, which includes:
– New Amtrak Airo trains debuting on the Amtrak Cascades, Northeast Regional, and East Coast routes
– New, more efficient Long Distance locomotives
– Upgraded interiors in Coaches, Dining Cars, Sleepers, and Sightseer Lounges—featuring new seat cushions, upholstery, lighting, and finishes
Amtrak plans to introduce all 28 new NextGen Acela trains by 2027 – broadening travel opportunities throughout the Northeast Corridor.
*Calculation based on the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) 2020 analysis, “Economic Impact of Public Transportation Investment” which estimates that $1 billion of public transportation spending creates 12,600 jobs. Total estimate adjusted for inflation and provides general scale of impact.
The article Amtrak NextGen Acela debuts on August 28 first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
Following more than a year of preparatory work, American Airlines has announced that it will resume its non-stop flight between Budapest and Philadelphia from May 2026. The flight, suspended during the pandemic, was very popular with both American and Hungarian passengers., The service quality of the daily Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners satisfies the needs of both leisure and business travelers, so the new connection can further strengthen Budapest’s position in the business tourism market.
From 21 May 2026, there will once again be a direct flight to North America from Budapest, as, after a 6-year hiatus, American Airlines will resume its direct Budapest-Philadelphia service in the summer schedule. One of the largest carriers in the world will thus reconnect Hungary with the United States. The launch of the flight is particularly significant, as American Airlines is the first US carrier to return and operate a direct flight to Budapest after the coronavirus pandemic. The decision is the result of more than a year of preparatory work, with the aim of reconnecting the Hungarian capital with major cities in the United States.
The flight will operate daily between 21 May and 5 October 2026 between Ferenc Liszt International Airport and Philadelphia International Airport. The modern, 234-seater Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft will depart from Budapest at 11:25 a.m. local time and arrive in Philadelphia at 3:00 p.m., while the return flight will depart from the American city at 6:50 p.m. and land in the Hungarian capital at 9:25 a.m. the following morning. The aircraft will have business, premium economy and economy classes. With the resumption of the flight, American Airlines will offer 3200 seats per week between the two cities, as well as excellent connections for passengers departing from Budapest to more than 100 other destinations in North America and the Caribbean. Philadelphia is not only a city of historical significance in the United States, but also one of American Airlines’ most important hubs. The direct flight to Budapest was already operating with a high load factor before the pandemic, so its return is not only another milestone, but also the restoration of a long-awaited route.
François Berisot, the CEO of Budapest Airport, part of the VINCI Airports network, emphasized: “The direct flight to Philadelphia is of huge significance for tourism and trade, and I am proud to welcome American Airlines back among our airline partners. A lot of hard work and months of preparations preceded the resumption of North American flights. Budapest Airport is continuing to work hard to develop more and more destinations from Budapest, including transatlantic flights.”
“This new direct service further strengthens Budapest’s position as one of Europe’s fastest-growing and most exciting city destinations, where visitors can enjoy not only historical heritage, but also a vibrant, modern urban experience. A key asset in supporting the decision-making process was the availability of detailed market insights, based on data from the National Tourism Data Supply Center (NTAK) and other sources, while targeted, data-driven promotional efforts measurably increased demand from American travelers – helping to establish the attractiveness of the new route.” said Olivér Csendes, the CEO of Visit Hungary.
“The customer demand for flights to and from cities rich in culture continues to grow. We’re increasingly seeing customers flock to cities they can immerse themselves in centuries of heritage, exploring history and culture beyond anything experienced before,” said José A. Freig, Vice President – International and Inflight Dining Operations, American Airlines. “With this route, our customers in Hungary will also have access to one of our fastest growing U.S. hubs in Philadelphia, from where they can explore more than 100 destinations in the U.S and beyond.”
Tickets for the 2026 summer season will be available for purchase starting 11 August 2025 on the American Airlines website and mobile application, as well as through official travel partners.
The article American Airlines to resume Budapest-Philadelphia flight from May first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.
-
Brand Stories3 weeks agoBloom Hotels: A Modern Vision of Hospitality Redefining Travel
-
Brand Stories2 weeks agoCheQin.ai sets a new standard for hotel booking with its AI capabilities: empowering travellers to bargain, choose the best, and book with clarity.
-
Destinations & Things To Do3 weeks agoUntouched Destinations: Stunning Hidden Gems You Must Visit
-
Destinations & Things To Do2 weeks agoThis Hidden Beach in India Glows at Night-But Only in One Secret Season
-
AI in Travel3 weeks agoAI Travel Revolution: Must-Have Guide to the Best Experience
-
Brand Stories1 month agoVoice AI Startup ElevenLabs Plans to Add Hubs Around the World
-
Brand Stories4 weeks agoHow Elon Musk’s rogue Grok chatbot became a cautionary AI tale
-
Brand Stories2 weeks agoContactless Hospitality: Why Remote Management Technology Is Key to Seamless Guest Experiences
-
Asia Travel Pulse1 month agoLooking For Adventure In Asia? Here Are 7 Epic Destinations You Need To Experience At Least Once – Zee News
-
AI in Travel1 month ago‘Will AI take my job?’ A trip to a Beijing fortune-telling bar to see what lies ahead | China
You must be logged in to post a comment Login