A new survey of holiday home owners across the UK has revealed the reason Brits are opting for the ease and comfort of a ‘home away from home’ amid rising costs and difficulties of travel abroad. With over 20,000 monthly searches in the UK for ‘static caravans for sale’, up 53% from last year, it is clear that holiday home ownership is becoming more and more popular across the country. 

New research reveals nearly two-thirds of owners have felt their physical and mental health improve since owning a holiday home, as well as their relationships with their family. 

The Holiday Park Community Report from UK static caravan sales provider, Away Resorts, surveyed its owners across the UK to uncover why they bought a static caravan and how they’ve benefitted from owning a holiday home.

A time for digital detox: how holiday parks are becoming a no-screen zone for young families

Among owners with children or grandchildren, 72% say their screen time goes down when on park, compared to when at home, with 41% of them saying they use screens a lot less. 

The benefits are felt most by grandparents. 45% of owners over 65 say their children and grandchildren are off screens much more (and as a likely result, more present) when visiting their holiday homes. 

Why are Brits buying UK holiday homes?

The survey revealed that 60% of owners said that a guaranteed getaway whenever they wanted one was a primary reason for purchasing a holiday home. Over half (57%) said they wanted a home away from home.

The survey findings also reveal that priorities change depending on what stage of life owners are at. 68% of 45- 54-year-olds bought their holiday home to escape the stress of everyday life, with 59% of them looking to spend more quality time with family.

Those later in life prioritised having a place to build memories with their younger relatives. Nearly half (44%) of respondents over 65 saw their holiday homes as something for their children or grandchildren to enjoy.

How are Brits benefiting from owning a UK static caravan?

Almost a third of owners (31%) bought a holiday home with retirement in mind, and those who did seem to be reaping the benefits. Eight in ten (80%) of those who bought for retirement revealed that holiday home ownership has had a positive impact on their physical health.

Looking further into these benefits, the survey spotlights how holiday home ownership has helped owners across all age ranges improve their relationships with their families (56%-63% of respondents), improve their social life (42%-48%) and achieve a better work-life balance, reaching up to 58% for 55-64 year olds.

Kate Watts, spokesperson at Away Resorts, says:

“With static caravans for sale across the UK, owners can find themselves a home away from home all year round without the hassle of research and booking. Having a place that you can call yours, no surprises and surrounded by loved ones is the recipe for a perfect holiday.”