A new survey reveals a shift in the travel preferences of young British holidaymakers, with partying no longer a top priority. The research, conducted by SkyParkSecure, surveyed 1,000 individuals aged 18-to-32, uncovering a trend away from the traditional image of British youth as party-seeking travelers.
Changing Travel Preferences
Contrary to the stereotype of young Brits being notorious for rowdy behavior abroad, only 5% of respondents expressed interest in a party holiday. Instead, a significant portion—46%—indicated a preference for traveling with family over friends, and 14% even planned solo trips. The appeal of nightclubs and bars also seems to be waning, with only 14% considering proximity to nightlife an important factor in choosing a destination.
A Focus on Culture and History
Young travelers like 23-year-old Tom, who has explored cities like New York, Dublin, and Lisbon, reflect this changing attitude. Tom shared, “I’ve never done a cheap party holiday such as Zante, and I don’t plan to. I just rather spend my money on visiting a city full of history.” This sentiment is echoed by the 29% of young people who prioritize visiting famous landmarks over indulging in party-oriented resorts.
A Shift in Holiday Destinations
While the 26-32 age group still shows some interest in party destinations like Ibiza and Zante, the majority of younger travelers (18-25) prefer more culturally enriching experiences. Only 23% of respondents would consider a beach holiday, and just 10% are interested in couples’ or adventure holidays. Reflecting a broader trend towards “small tourism,” holidays in big cities appeal to only 9% of those surveyed.
Factors Influencing Travel Choices
Weather and price remain significant factors in destination selection, with 40% and 36% of respondents, respectively, citing these as important. When it comes to financing their trips, nearly 30% of young travelers use credit cards, spending an average of £750 (€892) per trip. A majority (65%) dip into their savings to afford their vacations, while a fortunate 10% are able to splurge on holidays costing over £2,000 (€2,380).
This survey highlights a notable shift in the travel habits of young Brits, who are increasingly favoring cultural and family-oriented trips over the traditional party holiday.