Camping holidays in the UK are less stressful than exotic holidays abroad, a study has revealed. Researchers have found families who stay local instead of jetting off to sunny foreign climes are more likely to arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy their holiday.
Holiday-goers also find it easier to unwind without the worries of passports and visas, the language barrier and bugs and insects.
The study found almost half of families who have been on both local camping and international breaks believe a foreign jaunt is more stressful, with just 20% saying the same about a camping trip.
Louise White, spokeswoman for the insect repellent brand Jungle Formula which commissioned the research, said:
''When looking at glossy holiday brochures, a holiday abroad can seem like a dream. But sometimes, it is much easier and less stressful to stay in the UK.
''Not only is the journey usually shorter, but you don't have to navigate your way around airports, worry about delays and cancellations or deal with the endless queues at check-in and security.
''You also don't have to worry about interpreting a language you don't understand or forgetting your passport.
''Depending on where you go, a foreign holiday can also mean having vaccinations against various diseases which aren't an issue in the UK.
''So while the sunshine might not be as guaranteed in the UK, if you want a less stressful break, it seems like a back to nature camping or caravan trip is the way to go.''
The study of 2,000 Brits who have been on camping trips in the UK and holidays abroad found that 57% reckon not having to deal with passport control or navigate their way through airports make things less stressful on a camping holiday.
28% find it more relaxing in a country they are familiar with where they know the culture, with another 34% claiming they find it easier to unwind without having to worry about the language barrier.
A third simply find it easier to pack and prepare for a UK break, with less restrictions on luggage.
However, researchers also found:
- A holiday abroad sees an average of more than seven hours spent travelling, with 76% saying they find it hectic.
- In comparison, a break in this country will mean an average journey lasting just three hours and 37 minutes;
- Almost one in ten travelling for less than an hour to get to their UK destination.
It's not just the journey that leaves Brits favouring a UK camping break:
- 58% of people are more likely to worry about falling ill when holidaying abroad;
- Half of Brits have actually suffered some sort of injury or illness when on an exotic holiday overseas;
- One in five have had a foreign break ruined by insect bites;
- 16% said their holiday abroad was wrecked by travel delays.
The research marks the launch of new product, Jungle Formula Outdoor & Camping, designed specifically for 'staycations' to counter British bugs in outdoor situations such as at a bbq, picnic, while gardening or during a camping trip.
Top ten most stressful things about holidaying abroad:
1. Having to deal with airports/passport control
2. The expense/cost
3. It's stressful packing everything you need to go abroad
4. The language barrier
5. Having to deal with animals/insects which aren't an issue in the UK
6. Having to have vaccinations
7. Being so far away from home
8. I don't feel as confident letting my kids explore as much as I would in the UK because they don't know the area/culture
9. The kids are still able to watch TV/play their computer games
10. Children want to join kids clubs so don't want to do anything as a family
