Summer staycation on the agenda for UK motorists: Road trip vacations are the preference for many this year.
British holidaymakers are gearing up for a summer of road trips, with a staggering 61% of motorists considering a UK adventure[1]. According to Skoda's 2025 survey, the trend leans towards coastal resorts, national parks, and countryside locations, reflecting a strong interest in spontaneous travel within the UK.
The survey reveals that the picturesque Scottish Highlands top the list of desirable destinations, with 42% of respondents expressing interest[1]. The Lake District follows closely, with 40% of respondents yearning to visit. The Yorkshire Dales and St Ives in Cornwall are also popular choices, with 36% and 35% of respondents, respectively, expressing interest[1].
The emphasis on regional travel within the UK's scenic and traditional holiday spots is evident. More than half (55%) of respondents said they would be happy to travel more than 300 miles for a road trip[1]. Good weather, scenic routes, and the in-car company are important factors for more than two-thirds (68%), 64%, and 53% of respondents, respectively[1].
The survey also indicates that driving is seen as a more affordable option than flying by exactly a third (33%) of respondents[1]. Good snacks are an important factor in a successful road trip, according to 34% of respondents[1].
Interestingly, 13% of drivers expressed an interest in fitting a roof tent for their road trip[1]. Skoda equipped two Octavia vRS Estates with Tentbox Lite roof tents for potential road trip options[2]. A Czech-designed EGOE box camping unit has been installed in the Octavia Estate's 640-litre boot[2].
The ongoing cost of living challenges are a factor for 33% of survey respondents thinking about a UK road trip[1]. Additionally, 37% of respondents said a road trip would allow them to incorporate seeing friends and family into the holiday[1]. More than half (52%) of survey respondents want to be more adventurous and explore places they have never experienced before[1].
High travel volumes indicate these destinations will be busy during peak holiday periods[3]. With school holidays and summer breaks driving record-breaking midweek and weekend travel volumes, it's clear that these popular routes to scenic destinations will be in high demand[3].
In summary, the UK road trip is set to be a popular choice for British holidaymakers in 2025. With a focus on spontaneity, regional travel, and scenic destinations, it's an exciting time for those planning their summer adventures.
- British motorists are considering electric vehicles (EVs) for their summer road trips, as the trend leans towards sustainable motoring.
- The survey suggests that SUVs and cars are the preferred vehicles for UK road trips, with a strong emphasis on affordability and good fuel efficiency.
- Long driving hours will be a part of many road trips, as more than half of respondents are willing to travel over 300 miles.
- Traffic congestion can be expected on popular routes to scenic destinations such as the Scottish Highlands, the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and St Ives in Cornwall.
- For some drivers, the van lifestyle is an attractive alternative for their summer road trips, with 13% expressing an interest in fitting a roof tent.
- Travellers planning their summer road trips should be mindful of the ongoing cost of living challenges, as a third of respondents cited affordability as a factor in their decision-making process.
