Camping and caravanning is now officially more popular than bed and breakfasts, according to the latest figures.
Data from the Office for National Statistics has shown that more people are now camping than staying in other forms of overnight accommodation.
It revealed that 5.43 million camping trips were taken during 2009 – a 29 per cent year-on-year rise.
Camping and Caravanning Club spokesperson Jon Dale explained that the situation is helped by the continuation of poor exchange rates and increased environmental awareness.
He noted that Brits are looking for the most cost-effective option and “going back to basics”.
“I think people realise that in this country you can’t guarantee bright sunshine every day, but they use our campsites as a base to get around and explore local countryside and help the local economy at the same time,” Mr Dale said.
A recent survey carried out on behalf of Argos found that TVs, laptops, ironing boards and games consoles are among the top things that Brits are willing to go without while camping.
