Britons' Wanderlust: Abroad Or Homebound?

In 2023, UK residents made a total of 86.2 million trips abroad, up from 71.8 million in 2022. This is still slightly less than the peak number of visits made before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2019, which was 93.1 million. According to an annual survey, around 45% of British respondents made a holiday abroad between September 2021 and August 2022, indicating an increase of 29% compared to the previous year during the pandemic.

UK residents spent an estimated £72.4 billion overseas in 2023

According to the Office for National Statistics, UK residents spent an estimated £72.4 billion on visits abroad in 2023. This was an increase of £13.9 billion compared to 2022 and a 16% increase compared to 2019. The average spend per visit was £839 in 2023, which was 2% more than in 2022 and 25% higher than in 2019. The average spend per day rose from £75 in 2022 to £81 in 2023. These figures do not factor in inflation.

The high spending in 2023 could be attributed to the cost-of-living crisis in the UK, as well as an increase in the number of visits abroad. UK residents made 86.2 million visits abroad in 2023, compared to 71.0 million in 2022. This was a return to the pre-coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic travel pattern; however, the number of visits was still lower than the pre-pandemic level of 93.1 million in 2019. Disruptions at UK airports due to staff shortages and air traffic control issues may have been a factor in the lower number of visits.

Holidays were the most common reason for travelling abroad in 2023, with 55.5 million holiday trips made, accounting for almost two-thirds of visits. UK residents spent £50 billion on holidays, with an additional £13.9 billion spent on visiting friends or relatives. Other reasons for travel included business trips (6.3 million) and miscellaneous purposes such as sporting events and shopping (2.5 million).

The most popular overseas destination for UK residents in 2023 was Spain, with 17.8 million visits, followed by France (9.2 million), Italy (4.9 million), Greece (4.1 million), and Portugal (4 million). Europe as a whole accounted for 77% of all trips abroad by UK residents. Outside of Europe, the most popular destination was the USA, with 3.9 million visits.

While the number of trips abroad by UK residents has increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, there are still many Brits who have never travelled outside of the UK. A 2016 study revealed that nearly a quarter of British adults have never been on a plane, and 10% have never left the UK. The main reasons given for not travelling abroad include the expense and complexity of travel.

55.5 million holidays were taken by UK residents in 2023

In 2023, UK residents took 55.5 million holidays, making up 64% of all trips abroad. This is a 5% decrease from 2019, when there were 58.4 million holidays taken by UK residents. The decrease in holidays taken might be attributed to the disruption at some UK airports in 2023, caused by staff shortages and air traffic-control issues.

Holidays were the most popular reason for travelling abroad in 2023, with 22.5 million visits made to see friends and family and 6.3 million international business trips. The average number of holidays taken per UK resident in the 12 months between September 2021 and August 2022 was 1.3, which is an increase from the previous year but still below pre-pandemic levels.

The most common destination for UK residents in 2023 was Spain, with 17.8 million visitors, followed by France with 9.2 million, Italy with 4.9 million, Greece with 4.1 million, and Portugal with 4 million. These top 5 destinations are all in Europe, which was the most popular overseas destination, accounting for 77% of all trips abroad.

In 2023, UK residents spent an estimated £72.4 billion overseas, with 70% of that amount spent on holidays. This is an increase of £13.9 billion compared to 2022 and 16% more than in 2019. The increase in spending might be attributed to the cost-of-living crisis, as well as more visits being taken.

22.5 million visits were made to friends and family overseas in 2023

In 2023, 22.5 million visits were made by UK residents to friends and family overseas. This figure represents a 20% share of the total estimated £72.4 billion spent by UK residents overseas that year. This large number of visits to friends and family abroad is part of a broader trend of Brits travelling abroad, with a total of 86.2 million trips overseas in 2023, up 21% from 2022. This increase may be due to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, as in 2021, only around 45% of Brits surveyed had made a holiday abroad in the previous 12 months.

The most common reason for Brits to travel abroad in 2023 was for holidays, with 55.5 million holidays taken, constituting 64% of all trips abroad. This was followed by 22.5 million visits to friends and family, and then 6.3 million international business trips.

In 2023, the top destinations for Brits travelling abroad were all in Europe, with Spain in first place (17.8 million visitors), followed by France (9.2 million), Italy (4.9 million), Greece (4.1 million), and Portugal (4 million). The USA was the most popular destination outside of Europe, with 3.9 million visits.

80% of UK residents have never seen the Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, a 305-foot-tall monument in New York City, is a worldwide symbol of freedom. However, it seems that many people in the UK have never seen it. In fact, a survey found that 80% of UK residents have never laid eyes on this iconic statue.

Travel Trends in the UK

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the number of Brits travelling abroad. According to an annual survey, 45% of British respondents reported taking a holiday outside the UK between September 2021 and August 2022, reflecting a 29% increase from the previous year. This trend is also reflected in the number of trips abroad, with UK residents making a total of 86.2 million trips overseas in 2023, up from 71.8 million in 2022.

Popular Destinations for Brits

So, where are Brits going when they travel abroad? Here are some of the top destinations:

• Spain: With 17.8 million visitors in 2023, Spain is the most popular choice for UK travellers.
• France: Coming in second place is France, attracting 9.2 million British visitors in 2023.
• Italy, Greece, and Portugal: Rounding out the top five European destinations, these countries are also favourites among UK holidaymakers.
• USA: Outside of Europe, the USA is the top pick for Brits, with 3.9 million visits in 2023.

With the USA being a popular choice for UK travellers, one might wonder why more Brits haven't seen the Statue of Liberty. There could be several reasons, including the cost and complexity of travel. In a survey, 30% of Brits cited travelling as being "too expensive", while 20% found it "too complicated". Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted travel plans, as more than half of Brits (52%) reported being unable to take an international trip in 2016.

The Appeal of New York City

New York City, home to the Statue of Liberty, is a global hub of culture, finance, and tourism. It is the most populous city in the United States and offers a diverse range of attractions, from iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty to the bright lights of Broadway. With its rich history, world-class cuisine, and vibrant nightlife, it's no wonder that New York City continues to captivate travellers from around the world.

20% of UK residents have never visited a beach

A survey conducted by Kayak.co.uk in 2016 revealed that 20% of British adults have never visited a beach in their life. This figure is surprising, given that the UK is an island nation with a rich maritime history and a plethora of coastal destinations to explore.

There could be several reasons why a significant number of UK residents have never been to a beach. One of the main barriers to travel, in general, is cost, with 30% of respondents in the Kayak survey citing travel as being "too expensive." This is especially true for those who wish to travel with their families, as the cost of accommodation, transportation, and activities can quickly add up. In addition, 20% of respondents found travelling "too complicated", which may be a reflection of the time and effort required to plan a trip, particularly for those who are new to travelling or have limited experience.

The appeal of UK beaches

Despite the number of people who have never been to a beach, it is important to note that UK beaches hold a special appeal for many residents and tourists alike. In fact, approximately 271 million visits are made to English coastlines each year, with walking being the most popular activity. Beach trips are not limited by socio-economic status, and people from all walks of life enjoy spending time in these environments. The coast is particularly important for physical activity, with older adults and females more likely to take coastal walks.

The benefits of beach visits

In addition to the recreational and social aspects of beach visits, spending time in natural environments, including coastal areas, has been linked to improvements in health and wellbeing. This highlights the importance of UK beaches, not just as tourist attractions, but also as spaces that promote the health and wellbeing of the nation.

International travel trends

While 20% of UK residents may have never visited a beach, it is worth noting that international travel has been increasing. In 2023, UK residents made a total of 86.2 million trips abroad, up from 71.8 million in 2022. Spain was the most popular destination, with 17.8 million visits, followed by France, Italy, Greece, and Portugal, indicating a preference for European destinations.

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