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The biggest travel trends of 2023

Brits are looking to save money on their holidays next year, according to a survey of 1,000 customers by Verdant Leisure. The results highlighted that many people (84 per cent) are more likely to head out on a staycation next year, with more than half (56 per cent) of respondents saying the cost of living crisis will be the main factor steering them away from a trip overseas.

The survey explores both industry and internal booking data to show the biggest travel trends for the upcoming year. It’s not all about staycations, though. Read on to find out more about the top items on the travel agenda for 2023.

Budget holidays are on the rise

There are, on average, over 7,000 monthly Google searches for ‘cheap holidays’, showing a clear desire for affordable getaways. The current state of the economy has been felt by everyone across the UK, so it comes as no surprise that Brits are looking to make the most of every penny.

The data from Verdant Leisure showed that almost half of respondents had a staycation budget of under £200 per person, while 76 per cent make value for money the number one priority when looking to book a holiday.

Scotland is at the top of the bucket list

We’ve written about Scotland a lot here at CaravanTimes. It’s no coincidence either – Scotland really does have it all. It’s a beloved holiday destination, offering unbeatable scenery, breathtaking hiking trails, deep-rooted culture and everything from impressive mountains to boundless coastline.

In fact, Scotland saw people travel for more than three million domestic overnight stays in 2021. The survey data reflected consistent demand for Scottish tourism, with 40 per cent of respondents highlighting the beautiful land as the most desired UK holiday destination.

Holidaymakers want to explore the outdoors

Current research suggests the most popular spots for domestic UK holidays are those along the coast. Verdant Leisure’s survey revealed almost two-thirds of Brits are hoping to head to the coast next year, while 30 per cent are eager to explore the countryside.

We know our readers are especially interested in the Great British outdoors, so the results don’t come as a shock. Almost half of the respondents said they’d like to visit more national parks in 2023 and it’s brilliant to see a strong appetite for the UK’s brilliant and varied landscape.

Romantic getaways are on the cards

Heading on tour is mostly about escaping from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Getting away with your partner can provide the perfect backdrop for some well-deserved unwinding. As a result, cosier, romantic options for accommodation, such as lodges, are becoming highly desired.

From the data, roughly three in five people (58 per cent) said they were most likely to book a UK holiday with their significant other next year. Perhaps a romantic trip to the Scottish coast?

Man’s best friend

Across the world, people can’t get enough of their furry friends. Brits are no exception to this and perhaps hold an even greater affinity for pets. As such, it comes as no surprise that 40 per cent of us are making pet-friendly destinations a priority.

Animals love many of the same things we’re looking for in a great holiday – playing on the beach, splashing around in the sea and running around the woods. So, it makes perfect sense that people are looking to bring them along for the ride.

Photo credit: Engin Akyurt / Pexels