Planning a road trip? Get a move on, there’s only six weeks left of summer!
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Today marks just six weeks until the official end of summer. That means British holidaymakers looking to head away on a summertime trip need to get planning right away, or risk losing out.
But last-minute planning can result in higher-than-usual travel and accommodation costs, meaning the long-awaited summer trip could burn a hole in many Brits’ pockets. For those looking for a more affordable way to travel this summer, a road trip could be the solution.
Research from Irish Ferries, Ireland’s award-winning ferry operator, has revealed over half (57%) of British holidaymakers plan to head on a road trip this summer. Following recent airport chaos, there’s no sign of this slowing down over the second half of summer. With airport delays (22%), cramped cabins (12%) and waiting for either security or for baggage (18%) named as the most frustrating things about flying, those looking to book a last minute summer holiday should consider skipping the airport and costly care hire all together and instead opt for a road trip.
What’s more, over half (52%) are keen to enjoy the spontaneity a road trip offers – with no pressure to stick to a prescribed route, roadtrippers are free to meander between towns as they wish and stumble upon the off-the-beaten-track experiences they are seeking.
This year, it is authentic experiences British holidaymakers are seeking this summer with over three quarters (77%) of survey respondents revealing they are keen to explore new places and over two thirds (67%) looking to taste local cuisines.
Plus, over half (58%) of respondents state ‘the driving itself’ is the most attractive pull of a road trip holiday, while three quarters (75%) of those commonly known as ‘passenger princesses’ enjoy using the time in the car to switch off and listen to music and over half (55%) simply enjoy looking at the scenic views from the window.
France secured the top spot as the most popular destination for roadies with one in three (30%) stating this as their road trip destination of choice. Coming in a close second is Ireland, with almost a third (29%) of roadtrippers naming the destination as the top place to visit.
Plus, without the petty luggage restrictions of an airline (which 12% of respondents found seriously frustrating) travellers can ferry the loadwith all the essentials for the road ahead – a car full of snacks which four in five (81%) put at the top of their road trip packing list whilst for others a happy holiday is all about a good night’s sleep, with 36% packing their own pillow.
David O’Connor, Head of Holidays at Irish Ferries states: “Road trips are emerging as the ultimate way to holiday this summer and for good reason – they add a whole new layer of freedom and simplicity, and for families and groups in particular, they can offer a much more affordable way to travel.
“With many amazing road-tripping destinations on our doorstep steeped in history, culture and natural beauty, hopping across the English Channel or Irish Sea in your own car is simply the best way to travel without fuss.”
Inspired to get crambootin and head on a seasygoing road trip? With Irish Ferries it’s never been easier. Ferryfares to Ireland start from just £144 each way for a car and driver, or to France from £78 each way for a car and up to nine passengers.
Book today at www.irishferries.com or call 03717 300 400.
