With summer 2026 on the horizon, many Britons are turning their attention to planning a cost-effective holiday closer to home. Choosing a staycation in the UK eliminates the need for flights and passports, but rising living costs mean savvy planning is essential.
Nick Drewe, a discount expert at the online coupon platform Wethrift, has shared his professional insight on securing the best deals. "Choosing to holiday in the UK can take a lot of stress out of planning a vacation," Drewe stated. "However, with the cost of fuel on the rise, train ticket prices more expensive than ever, and the cost of living crisis continuing - it is important to save money wherever you can." He confirms that a few simple strategies can lead to a significantly more affordable break.
Smart Booking for Travel and Accommodation
Drewe's first piece of advice focuses on transport. If travelling by rail, he emphasises that booking train tickets far in advance is crucial, as prices surge closer to the travel date. Using apps like Trainline to compare fares quickly can also yield savings.
When it comes to where to stay, the landscape has shifted. While Airbnb was once synonymous with value, Drewe suggests it's now vital to check hotel comparison sites like Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Trivago. These platforms often reveal room rates cheaper than Airbnb listings, though larger groups may still find value in splitting a whole property.
Signing up for hotel loyalty schemes, such as IHG, is another shrewd move. A one-off membership can unlock exclusive member rates and allow you to accumulate points for future discounts, alongside perks like early check-in.
Planning and Packing to Cut Costs
Failing to plan your daily activities can be a fast route to overspending, particularly for families. Drewe recommends researching in advance, noting that many museums, art galleries, National Trust properties, and public parks offer free or low-cost entertainment, especially in the summer months.
One of the biggest expenses on any trip is food. To combat this, the expert advises bringing your own food and prioritising packed lunches for day trips. If booking an Airbnb, ensuring it has kitchen access allows you to prepare meals, dramatically reducing dining-out costs.
The Power of Flexibility
Finally, Drewe highlights the significant savings available to those who can be flexible with their dates. Travelling outside of peak school holiday periods is always cheaper. Utilising the 'flexible dates' search option on accommodation websites can reveal the most affordable travel windows for your 2026 staycation.
By following these expert tips from Nick Drewe, holidaymakers can look forward to a relaxing and memorable UK break in summer 2026 without straining their finances. Proactive planning and clever booking are the keys to unlocking a budget-friendly escape.
