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Brits prefer several UK-based micro-cations across the year – over a holiday abroad

More than four in 10 now prefer several UK-based micro-cations throughout the year – over one annual holiday, according to research.

A poll of 2,000 adults found they’d rather put the money one big getaway would cost towards multiple tiny breaks throughout the year.

With 20 per cent planning one of these short breaks – set within 100 miles of their home – this bank holiday weekend.

It emerged 76 per cent appreciated these types of holidays as they’ve helped them discover local hidden gems, such as historical landmarks, coastal towns, and British countryside.

Over two in five (44 per cent) are now taking more micro-cations than they were five years ago, compared to only 27 per cent who are upping the number of overseas trips.

The study, commissioned by Smart Energy GB, also found 49 per cent have taken a micro-cation in the past year alone, while 58 per cent agreed micro-cations are now part of their annual travel plans.

And 44 per cent would choose them as a first-choice option rather than a backup.

Victoria Bacon, director at Smart Energy GB, said: “With household budgets under pressure, shorter breaks closer to home offer the chance to relax, recharge and create lasting memories without travelling far and often at a lower cost.”

The study also found 69 per cent agreed a micro-cation was more affordable than visiting somewhere overseas, and of those who have swapped a holiday abroad for a micro-cation, 67 per cent did so to cut down on costs.

Of those who’ve saved money by doing this type of holidaying, 34 per cent have used the extra cash to take more short breaks, while 47 per cent put it straight into savings.

The study also polled 593 EV drivers and found almost half (47 per cent) said owning an electric vehicle has made them more likely to take a micro-cation.

Two in five (39 per cent) enjoyed the simplicity of leaving home with a fully charged car, and not having to hunt for a service station or public charging point.

Based on public data verified by New Automotive, a 200-mile round trip costs £36.57 in fuel in an average family car.

While it costs as little as £14.92 to charge an EV at home on a standard electricity tariff to cover the same distance – a saving of 59 per cent.

Smart meter owners could reduce costs even further by turning that already-lower cost of £14.92 into just £4.57 on average by charging overnight on a flexible EV tariff.

The OnePoll.com data also revealed 37 per cent of electric car drivers are already displaying this behaviour, versus only 14 per cent who choose public charging points.

Victoria Bacon added: “By using a smart meter to access an EV tariff that fits your needs best, you can save a significant amount on travel costs by charging during cheaper, off-peak periods.”

Double Olympic champion and EV enthusiast, Helen Glover OBE, said: “Some of our best family adventures haven’t involved travelling hundreds of miles – they’ve been spontaneous trips that are less than a couple of hours away by car.

“Whether it’s the rolling countryside of Devon, the dramatic coastline of Cornwall or the peaceful trails of Dartmoor, there are so many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

“As an EV driver, those local adventures can be more affordable, convenient and sustainable too.”

HELEN’S BUDGET-FRIENDLY TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF A MICRO-CATION:

• Plan ahead: Pack the essentials and plenty of equipment – from a picnic to bikes or paddleboards – so you can enjoy a full day out and keep active without breaking the bank.
• Swap expensive attractions for the great outdoors: Some of the best days out don’t cost a thing.
• Save before you set off: For those who drive an EV, charging at home with a smart meter can unlock access to flexible tariffs, meaning you can charge when electricity is cheaper, keeping travel costs down before you even leave the house.