Is your student budget keeping you grounded this Spring / Summer term?
The team at Liv Student has researched and sought out the best staycation ideas in the UK, so that you can enjoy a well-deserved break – without breaking the bank!
Here’s why you should choose a UK staycation this year…
Why choose a staycation?
Staycations saw a huge rise in popularity during the pandemic and have remained a go-to for students and families alike owing to the diverse and exciting range of activities and destinations available on home turf, here in the UK.
Not only do staycations open up a world of UK-based adventure that you didn’t know was available, but they are considerably more affordable owing to the lack of travel costs, visas, etc.
What actually is a staycation?
Now, before we dive into our pick of staycation ideas and things to see, do, and experience this Spring/Summer season, a quick definition. Because while most of you will have at least heard the term ‘staycation’ used by budget-conscious travellers, knowing what a trip like this involves is another thing entirely.
A staycation is a holiday or trip which takes place on home soil – i.e., here in the UK. It can involve anything from a city break to a coastal retreat, an adventure in one of our many national parks, or an adventurous expedition climbing mountains and traversing clifftops.
As long as it doesn’t involve travel overseas, then it is classed as a staycation.
And while, yes, some UK hotels are even more expensive than the combined cost of flights and a hotel somewhere hot and sunny in Europe or further afield, there are plenty of affordable options for students on a budget.
Coastal staycation ideas
The UK is an island, and as such is surrounded on all sides by coastal retreats and beachside escapes.
While many concentrate their coastal trips on the south coast owing to the marginally warmer climate and the plethora of tourist-friendly towns and villages, you can enjoy a beach staycation anywhere in the UK.
Brighton, for example, is popular with students thanks to its exciting nightlife and quirky surrounding culture. Blackpool is a notoriously popular staycation spot with the pier and beach activities which will take you right back to your childhood. Or you can combine days on the beach with walks in the forest and trips over to the IOW with a staycation based in the New Forest.
From a budget point of view, the beach and any kind of coastal staycation is a good idea because many activities – sunbathing, swimming in the sea, and walks – are all free to enjoy! So, once you’re there, you can settle into the environment and all it offers without spending much extra cash!
City breaks in the UK
A city break is going to fall on the more expensive end of the spectrum when it comes to staycations, as even once you’re there you will find yourself paying for different experiences, meals, and more.
Having said that, wandering around the city is completely free – and if you get your timings right and opt for a midweek stay, you will likely find that many of the hotels and local B&Bs offer cheaper rates.
For students in particular, a city break tends to be packed with energy and things to see and do at all hours – meaning that if you consider yourself a night owl, you won’t miss out on activities or sightseeing. What’s more, a city break doesn’t have to mean London (contrary to popular belief!)
In fact, there are cities worth visiting dotted across the UK, with some of the most popular among students including Brighton, Liverpool, Edinburgh, Winchester, and more.
Exhilarating adventures for thrill seekers
From a day at Go Ape to a long weekend spent in Center Parcs, the UK is packed with adventure-based staycation ideas.
You can also look at taking on your own adventure and challenge on one of the UK’s many mountain walks and extensive hikes, following rural trails, hiking over mountain ranges in Scotland and Wales, or taking on other sporting ventures including canoeing trips and more. Most of these kinds of trips can be enjoyed while camping, staying in a portable motor home, or from local B&Bs and Airbnbs.
As is the case with any trip, preparation is key – especially for an adventure trail, hike, climb, or trek. Check the weather forecast before setting off and make sure to have a full bag with gear for all weather eventualities (you are staying in the UK after all, and we’re not known for extended periods of sunshine!)
Traveling solo vs. going as a group
Suffice it to say, there are lots of choices for prospective staycations in the Spring and Summer.
But should you travel as a group or go it alone?
Well, this entirely depends on the kind of trip you want to enjoy and what you want to get out of it. If you want to celebrate the arrival of the warmer weather and the winding down of the university year with friends, then booking an Airbnb or campsite together can be a fun way to make the very act of going somewhere new more exciting and fun.
Having said that, if you are looking to unwind and spend a little time relaxing, then it may be that you book a staycation for yourself and enjoy the luxuries of doing what you want when you want.
Regardless of your reason for booking a staycation and the destination you choose, staying on home turf affords you the benefit of being able to plan your trip or book last minute; making the most of the views, attractions, and exciting things to do within our small but mighty country.
For more guides like this, covering university life, study, revision, and how to maximise your time as a student, follow us at Liv Student online.
