Feeling the need to get away but don’t have anything planned? When a standard holiday abroad isn’t on the cards, staycation holidays are the next best thing. What’s not to love about sleeping in, eating delicious food and having complete freedom to explore the great outdoors? The UK is filled with great holiday spots for every traveller – whether you’re hoping for relaxation or adventure. But what is involved in planning a staycation? Our last-minute staycation guide is filled with top tips on planning a staycation, including what to pack for a staycation and what to do on a staycation.
Planning A Staycation
When it comes to planning the best staycation, the trick is to treat it like any normal holiday. Leave your work at home, take some time away with friends and family and use the time off work to relax. If it’s possible, we recommend turning off your devices and limiting your time with technology, to make sure you have a chance to really take in the views! Follow our staycation ideas to help you plan the perfect trip for you – whether that’s up in the Scottish Highlands or down by the coast in Devon.
What Are The Best Staycation Locations?
The first step in planning a staycation is choosing the right location. Whether you’re planning a fun family weekend away or a last-minute staycation for yourself, there are a number of locations across the UK that offer up some of the best staycation holidays:
- Lundy Island. Off the coast of North Devon, Lundy Island is adorned with cliffside views, diverse wildlife and unspoiled views. If you’re looking for peaceful staycation holidays, this peaceful location is your best bet, with 23 holiday properties to choose from.
- The Lake District. It’s no secret that this is one of the best staycation locations. With a range of popular tourist destinations and more quaint towns, there’s a place for every explorer.
- The Jurassic Coast. Starting in Exmouth and spanning across the coastline to Swanage, the Jurassic Coast is filled with iconic towns and natural sites to explore, as well as valuable rocks, fossils and landforms.
- Cornwall. From the Eden Project to the Minack Theatre, there are a range of wonderful tourist spots to choose from in Cornwall – not forgetting the delicious Cornish pasties and coastal views!
Looking for more UK staycation ideas? From luxurious beach-side breaks taking in the sea air, to countryside rambles and hiking up the fells, we’ve listed 10 of the best UK staycation ideas to help you decide where to go for a change of scenery. And thanks to the various options of hotels, AirBnb’s, bed & breakfasts, holiday rentals and campsites to choose from, you should never be short of places to stay – even for those last-minute staycations.
What To Pack For A Staycation
Wondering what to pack for a staycation? The beauty of staycation holidays is not having to worry about weight limits and baggage allowance – meaning you can pack anything and everything for your trip. But first of all, you need luggage to store all of your belongings. Other than the usual clothes, toiletries and essentials, here are a few extra items we recommend when it comes to planning a staycation:
- Packing cubes – ideal for keeping your clothes fresher for longer if you don’t have access to a washing machine
- Sunscreen – make sure you keep yourself, and your skin, protected, even on those cloudier days!
- A book – the perfect companion for any holiday
- Family games and/or a pack of cards – wind down in the evening with a few fun activities
- Eye mask – what’s a relaxing holiday without undisturbed sleep?
- Waterproof jacket – to accompany the unpredictable British weather
- Walking boots or shoes – your feet will need protection and support while you explore
- Rucksack – in addition to your luggage, a smaller rucksack is ideal for days out and about
Browse our full range of travel accessories online to make sure you have everything you need for your trip.
What To Do On A Staycation
The best staycation holidays are the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration – in the morning you’re out hiking or walking on the beach and in the afternoon, you’re chilling at a café or snuggled up on the sofa with a book. Everyone has a different idea of what to do on a staycation, but here are a few of our favourite activities to take part in:
- Support local businesses. Shop in local stores, eat in local restaurants and cafés, try out local activities. If you’re heading to Edinburgh, for example, check out some of the best places to visit in the city.
- Explore the area. From walking through the countryside to strolling through town and down the beach, taking in the sights is the best staycation activity.
- Go hiking. Whether you’re an outdoorsy person or not, a hike is a great way to take in the fresh air and feel a sense of accomplishment. But don’t forget your hiking trousers to ensure a comfortable trip.
- Go to an attraction or theme park. The ideal spot for families, theme parks are a great option for a fun-filled adventure.
Are you planning an active, last-minute staycation filled with hikes, long walks and lots of adventure? Make sure you have the best gear to help keep you on track with Craghoppers. The British weather is unpredictable, so make sure you cater for all occasions with our men’s outdoor clothing and women’s outdoor clothing. Travelling with the family? We also have a great selection of kids’ outdoor clothing too!