Too hot to stay: UK Staycations fall sharply this Summer as UK temperatures soar

There was once a time when UK adults had domestic ‘staycation’ holidays to avoid soaring temperatures abroad, but new research suggests that this trend is now reversing itself – with more people this year holidaying abroad to escape the stifling heat in the UK.

With temperatures in parts of the UK hitting record highs in recent days, new research undertaken in the last week by InsureandGo reveals that the percentage of UK adults planning a ‘staycation’ over the next two months has fallen sharply – from 59% in June 2024 (and 55% last year) to 45% in June 2026.  In contrast, the percentage of people planning a short-haul summer holiday to the Med and Southern Europe has risen from 44% to 51% in just a year.

Garry Nelson, Head of Corporate Affairs at InsureandGo comments: “in the last few years, the human experience of wildfires and extreme heat in parts of mainland Europe made around one in two holidaymakers rethink summer holiday plans, whether considering cooler destinations – such as the UK – or holidays at a different time of year. Now the UK is experiencing record temperatures, the tables are turning back again, as more people are looking to head abroad over the next few months, with fewer even considering a UK holiday. In recent days, the UK has been hotter than many popular European destinations, but there is also the more fundamental issue that the UK, as a country, is considerably less well-prepared to cope with extreme weather.”

The InsureandGo research looked at holiday trends for the future, in light of rising temperatures over recent summers. Nationally, 22% of young people (under 25) think that the UK will be too hot to consider having a holiday in in five years’ time – as a result of rising temperatures.

With health risks an issue during periods of extreme heat, InsureandGo shares 10 simple travel tips* on how UK holidaymakers can be safe in extreme heat when abroad:

• Avoid outdoor activities if air pollution is high:Use air quality apps to keep track of levels.
• Stay indoors during the midday hours of peak heat and humidity.
• Look for accommodation with air conditioning to stay cool.
• Stay hydrated – dehydration can increase heart strain, so drink plenty of fluids.
• Avoid heavy meals -opt for lighter meals and moderate activities.
• Wear light-coloured, loose clothing.
• Avoid extreme exercise.
• Limit outdoor activities during hours of peak heat:Avoid heat-induced stress by staying indoors during the hottest part of the day.
• Declare all your medical conditions when buying travel insurance – be sure to check what your insurance covers you for before you travel.
• Pack travel essentials – such as high factor sun cream, a sun hat and sunglasses before you travel abroad.

*Check with your medical professional regarding your individual circumstances 

Garry Nelson, Head of Corporate Affairs at InsureandGo comments: “Despite recent heatwaves and geo-political tensions, the UK Government has reassured travellers that there is currently no need to cancel or change holiday plans this summer. Our survey shows that demand for holidays abroad remains strong this summer. While successive summers of extreme heat and wildfires have presented challenges for many, our research suggests many people are adapting to the new normal of sizzling summers across Europe. Some are looking to change plans on where and when to go, whilst others are adapting and focusing on how to be safe in soaring temperatures.  Wherever you are travelling, make sure you have sorted your travel insurance so that you can go without the doubt.”