Domestic holidays wilt as heatwave sends more Britons abroad

The summer heatwave has encouraged more UK holidaymakers to head abroad rather than holiday in Britain, according to consumer research.

A survey of 2,000 UK adults on behalf of AllClear Travel Insurance in June found 91% planned some kind of holiday this summer, broadly in line with the last two years, but of these 45% planned a UK holiday – down from 54% in 2024.

All but three percentage points of those planning an overseas trip (51%) said they would take a short-haul holiday, up from 44% last year – with long-haul travel down year on year.

AllClear suggested the figures “challenge the belief that hot UK summers encourage more people to holiday at home”, arguing: “Travellers appear to be opting for destinations better equipped for prolonged high temperatures, with air-conditioned hotels, restaurants and public transport.”

It noted: “The trend is particularly pronounced among older travellers.”

The research found the intention to take a UK holiday among over-55s was down from 56% in 2024 to 45% in June, with the intention to take a short-haul European break among the same age group rising from 44% two years ago to 49% this summer. 

AllClear identified a similar trend among those with pre-existing medical conditions, with the desire for UK holidays falling from 61% in 2024 to 46% this summer, while the intention to travel abroad within Europe rose from 39% to 48%.

Commenting on the findings, AllClear Travel Insurance head of corporate affairs Garry Nelson said: “Holiday demand remains incredibly resilient, but we’re seeing a clear shift towards European destinations and away from UK breaks.

“Many travellers appear to be deciding that if they’re going to spend a week in 30-degree temperatures, they would rather do it somewhere that is built for it. 

“Hotels, restaurants, public transport and attractions across much of southern Europe are designed to cope with prolonged summer heat, with air conditioning and shaded spaces. The UK simply isn’t equipped in the same way.”

Nelson noted: “Extreme heat can put additional strain on the body, especially for those with existing medical conditions.”

He advised travellers: “Make sure you accurately declare your medical history when arranging travel insurance.”

The research for AllClear was carried out by UK Omnibus Group among 2,000 adults in June.