A bit of planning ahead can help to maximise a normal holiday in the UK and turn it into a luxury staycation.
Over the coming years more and more Brits are expected to stay in the UK for their holidays, in part due to the rising cost of living and cost of travelling abroad.
Almost three-quarters (73%) of Brits are more likely to opt for staycations in the UK over the next year as opposed to a holiday abroad, an increase of 59% on last year, according to Office of National Statistics and Visit Britain surveys.
While sky high inflation is making life very difficult for many, 90% of Brits asked said money would not stop them from taking UK breaks in the next couple of years.
With travellers seeing no sign of wanting to give up on their holidays at home anytime soon, they will be looking for the best tips and tricks to make the most of their staycations in the UK, especially if it involves saving a few pennies in the process.
James Maughan, managing director of self catering accommodation provider GroupAccommodation.com, has offered some tips about how to maximise your time spent on holiday in the UK.
Check them out below...
Do a bulk shop in advance
When you’re trying to enjoy your holidays, the last thing you want to do is have to pop out to top up your cupboards mid-way through your break.
While it may seem a little boring when there's a big holiday to think about, planning ahead and working out what food and drink you'll need is a solid way to avoid any waste and save money for the more fun things.
Order food subscription boxes
If maximising quality time with your family or friends is a priority, food subscription boxes can be a convenient way to spend less holiday cooking and shopping.
"The organisation and preparation that goes into cooking, especially if you’re on holiday with large groups, can be a hassle in itself," he said.
"Signing up for a food subscription box is a great way to not only spend less time making meals but to act as a teamwork opportunity that brings the family closer."
Often these subscription boxes have offers if you’ve never signed up before, meaning you can save a bundle, while most can be cancelled at any time, so you won't be forking out after the holiday is over.
The boxes are also a great way to try out different foods and all the ingredients are split into portions, meaning you won't have to bring a bunch of ingredients home with you at the end of the holiday.
You could even choose meals along a specific theme or from a particularly country, to really bring the holiday experience to your door.
Host your own wine tasting
If putting your taste buds to the test with a glass of fine wine is up your street, then you'll like know the cost of attending an organised wine-tasting event or a vineyard visit.
While walking amongst the vines whilst sipping a glass of vino may seem like a distant dream for those planning a UK staycation this year, there’s still a way holidaymakers can create the wine experience they’re looking for.
James recommends finding mixed wine cases “which can be purchased easily online or in wine retailers across the country” or even signing up for a subscription service, for those who consider themselves to be real savants.
These often offer a varied selection of different wines to sample from and, in some cases, you can even choose your preferences to ensure there’s nothing in your case that you won’t like.
If wine isn't your thing, the same model can be used for beer, whisky, chocolate or even sweet tasting, if you've got children in your midst or if you're a particular lover of sugar.
Bring an experience to your holiday home
To truly make your staycation experience unique, you can organise a local experience at your chosen property.
"If you choose a property with a large garden or living room, this offers ample space for you to host an experience or event," James notes.
"It’s a convenient way to have fun so that you can avoid having to venture somewhere else, which could be far dependent on the experience you’re looking to host, adding additional costs such as fuel or transport fares.”
From outdoor cookery classes to archery sessions, local companies and event organisations are great options to find something to entice all of your group. You could even bring in a local masseuse or nail specialist to turn the stay into a mini-spa break.
"And you’ll no doubt find that your holiday hosts will know of local companies and independent establishments that are able to organise experiences, meaning you’ll get only the best suggestions from those with local knowledge," he added.
Go for a unique property
For those planning on staying close to home for their next holiday rather than going abroad, this means you’ll likely have a bit of extra spending money for your getaway in the UK.
Finding a property that’s completely different to anything typical of a normal holiday home is a fantastic way to make your trip all the more memorable.
Whether it’s a quirky converted camper, a beachfront stay, or a hot tub haven, the more unusual the better to give your holiday plenty of character.
Buy national memberships
If a staycation has become a new normal for you, particularly since the pandemic began, there are a number of national memberships that you can make the most of to have amazing experiences during your stay.
Charities such as the National Trust or English Heritage are some of the best to sign up for. With hundreds of sites and landmarks spread across the country, they can accumulate a real saving when it comes to offering new and exciting things to do and see during days out on your staycation.
In some cases, you can make back the cost of your membership in only a handful of visits meaning that purchasing one of these can be particularly cost-effective in the long run.
Hire a local caterer
If your holiday overlaps with, or is for, a special occasion, a local caterer can be a great way to make this all the more special.
For those hosting and staying with large groups, catering makes this all the more possible and can be a cost-effective option given the time and energy it can take to cook for a number of people at once.
This is a fantastic way to take the pressure off of your trip so that everyone can equally enjoy your special occasion without anyone feeling the strain or having to divert their attention to catering for your group.
"Asking your host for local tips will undoubtedly give you an insider’s glimpse into the best food on offer nearby, allowing you to not only support local businesses but to also get real recommendations from people who have tried and tested the cuisine available," James said.
