UK staycations set to break records as jet fuel crisis grounds flights
Interest in Devon holidays spikes 61% in April as International jet fuel costs increase at record levels.
As global jet fuel prices hit record highs in April, UK holidaymakers are turning toward the beauty of the British coast for summer getaways. Analysis of the latest Google Search trend data by Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks shows interest in domestic stays has hit a five-year high.
At the beginning of April the benchmark European jet fuel price hit an all-time high of $1,838 (£1,387) per tonne, and holidaymakers responded accordingly, with searches for Devon staycations surging by 61% year-on-year in April.
Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks’ own data backs this up, with weekend bookings in June already up 28% compared to this point last year. Bookings for the first two weeks of the Summer Holidays are also up 20%.
The increasing interest in Devon is no surprise; Woolacombe is regularly voted among the best beaches in the UK and Europe. It offers three miles of unbroken golden sands, world-class surf, and breathtaking UNESCO-protected coastal paths.
Kevin Darvill, head of sales & marketing at Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks commented: "British families are looking at the aviation headline news and asking themselves if the airport hassle and skyrocketing flight costs are really worth it.
“The data shows a massive shift in mindset. Holidaymakers are deliberately moving away from hyper-frenetic itineraries and high-emission short-haul flights. Instead, they are choosing to stay longer in one place, slow down, and truly immerse themselves in the local environment.
“People want reliability, they want value, and they are rediscovering that we have world-class beaches right here on our doorstep. We’ve had so much interest in May and it shows no sign of slowing down any time soon.”
As peak booking season accelerates, Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks is urging British travellers to lock in their summer plans now to secure the best spots on the coast. The holiday parks have recently spent £4m on new caravans, extended the Surf Village, upgraded the Seaview Farmhouse and built a new outdoor activity tent for the EXplorers ranger-led nature activities at Twitchen House to weather-proof them.
ENDS
About Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks
Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks is one of the leading operators of holiday parks within Devon and the UK. A family-run business, they are passionate about reinvesting back into their Parks so that the customer gets the best possible holiday at a reasonable price. They offer caravans, lodges and camping/touring pitches so you can find the right accommodation for your stay.
Data sources
Staycation search metrics sourced from Google Search Trends regional insights (April/May 2026 YoY analysis) and the 2026 Domestic Travel Desires Report. Aviation cost tracking via IATA Fuel Price Monitor (2026).
Contact:
For more information on the story please contact Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks’ PR representative David Foy.