British holidaymakers are discovering that jetting off to sunny European destinations for a weekend can now cost significantly less than staying at home. According to new data, the average Brit spends up to £127.10 on food, drink, and activities during a typical weekend in the UK. In a surprising twist, travel company On the Beach has launched innovative all-inclusive trip packages that undercut this domestic expenditure.
The Rise of the Budget-Friendly Weekend Escape
The online travel agent has reported a remarkable 100 per cent year-on-year increase in bookings for these economical short breaks. Dubbed the 'All-Inclusive Weekender' by the company, this emerging trend allows travellers to depart on Friday afternoon, enjoy two full nights of unlimited food, drinks, and sunshine, and return home in time for work on Monday morning.
How the Numbers Stack Up
These packages can cost as little as £60 per day, making destinations like Crete, Faro, Rhodes, and the Canary Islands accessible without straining finances or consuming excessive annual leave. For instance, a two-night all-inclusive weekend in Majorca with return flights from Bournemouth is priced at just £115 per person. This represents a saving of £12 compared to the average UK weekend expenditure.
The specific itinerary for this deal involves flying out at 12:55 PM on Friday, April 24th, and returning at 11:45 AM on the following Sunday. Market research indicates that an overwhelming 88 per cent of Britons would consider booking such a cost-effective getaway.
Availability and Booking Options
On the Beach has created a dedicated 'All-Inclusive Weekender' page on their website to help customers find affordable weekend trips. The platform features numerous deals for short-haul destinations suitable for two-night stays. Current offers cover various dates in April and May, with departure routes available from Manchester, Edinburgh, Bournemouth, East Midlands, and London airports.
Industry Perspective on the Trend
Caspar Nelson, a holiday expert at On the Beach, explained the concept behind these packages. 'We’ve basically taken the British weekend and upgraded it,' he stated. 'Same time, same spend, but instead of a pricey pint and a takeaway, you’re getting flights, sunshine and unlimited drinks.'
Nelson vividly described the weekend experience, painting a picture of relaxation by the pool before returning to the office. 'You leave work on Friday and before you know it, you’re by the pool,' he continued. 'By Monday morning, you’re back at your desk and when that familiar "what did you get up to this weekend?" question comes round, you’re talking about pints by the pool in 25-degree heat, while everyone else is talking about how they did a few jobs around the house.'
This innovative approach to weekend travel demonstrates how changing consumer habits and competitive pricing are making international short breaks more accessible than ever before. As the cost of domestic leisure activities continues to rise, these all-inclusive packages offer a compelling alternative for budget-conscious travellers seeking sunshine and value.
