Why More Brits Are Choosing Touring Holidays Instead of Flying Abroad

Why More Brits Are Choosing Touring Holidays Instead of Flying Abroad

durness beach north coast 500

 

For many people planning holidays in 2026, the idea of flying abroad is starting to lose its shine. Long queues, flight delays, baggage limits and rising costs are pushing travellers to rethink how — and where — they spend their time off.

Instead, a growing number of UK holidaymakers are turning to touring holidays, choosing the freedom of motorhomes and campervans over airports and fixed itineraries.

Recent research highlighted at the Scottish Motorhome, Caravan & Holiday Home Show shows just how strong this shift has become — and why Scotland, in particular, is perfectly placed to benefit.

Touring Holidays Are Now the First Choice for Many Brits

A nationwide survey of UK adults found that over half of holidaymakers now prefer touring-style holidays — using motorhomes, campervans or caravans — rather than flying abroad.

This isn’t about giving something up. For many, it’s about gaining something better.

Touring holidays allow travellers to:

  • Set their own pace
  • Avoid rigid travel schedules
  • Explore multiple destinations in one trip
  • Travel with everything they need already onboard

Rather than rushing between airports and hotels, the journey itself becomes part of the holiday.

Freedom, Flexibility and Fewer Hassles

One of the strongest reasons people are choosing touring holidays is freedom.

Survey respondents highlighted that touring offers:

  • The ability to change plans at short notice
  • No dependency on flight times or cancellations
  • More control over daily routines and stops

Add to that the chance to wake up somewhere different each morning — from lochs and beaches to forest parks and Highland glens — and it’s easy to see the appeal.

For many travellers, especially couples and families, motorhome and campervan holidays offer a calmer, more relaxed way to travel.

Scotland: Made for Motorhome and Campervan Travel

Scotland consistently ranks as one of the UK’s most rewarding touring destinations — and for good reason.

With its dramatic landscapes, quiet coastal roads and extensive network of campsites, Scotland is ideal for exploring by motorhome or campervan. Highlights include:

  • The Highlands and Islands
  • Scenic coastal routes
  • National parks and remote glens
  • Historic towns and villages
  • Dark skies, wildlife and open space

Unlike city-based breaks, touring Scotland allows visitors to experience places that simply aren’t accessible by public transport — all while keeping accommodation, kitchen and storage in one comfortable space.

Pet-Friendly Travel Without Compromise

dog friendly motorhome hire

 

Another major factor driving the popularity of touring holidays is the ability to bring dogs along.

Many holidaymakers find kennels expensive, stressful or simply undesirable. Motorhome and campervan hire offers a genuine alternative — allowing pets to travel comfortably with their owners.

For dog owners in particular, touring Scotland means:

  • Open spaces and long walks
  • Pet-friendly campsites
  • No restrictions on luggage or accessories
  • Familiar routines, even while travelling

It’s no surprise that pet-friendly motorhome holidays continue to grow in popularity year after year.

Cost-Effective, Comfortable and Well Equipped

While touring holidays offer freedom, they also make strong financial sense.

With accommodation, transport and cooking facilities combined, many travellers find motorhome and campervan hire provides excellent value, particularly for longer trips.

Modern motorhomes are designed for comfortable, off-grid travel, with features such as:

  • Onboard bathrooms and showers
  • Heating and hot water
  • Solar power and leisure batteries
  • Fully equipped kitchens
  • Plenty of storage

This means fewer daily expenses — and more flexibility on where and how you stay.

Discover Touring at the Scottish Motorhome Show

Interest in touring holidays continues to grow, and events like the Scottish Motorhome, Caravan & Holiday Home Show reflect that enthusiasm.

Held annually in Glasgow, the show brings together motorhomes, campervans, accessories and travel inspiration under one roof — giving visitors a chance to explore touring options and see how holidays on wheels really work.

For first-time tourers, it’s often the moment where curiosity turns into a plan.

Is a Touring Holiday Right for You?

If you value:

  • Flexibility over fixed itineraries
  • Experiences over schedules
  • Comfort without constant packing and unpacking
  • Exploring Scotland at your own pace

Then a motorhome or campervan holiday could be the perfect fit.

At Atlas Motorhome & Campervan Hire, we see first-hand how touring holidays allow people to reconnect with travel — and with Scotland itself — in a way that feels unhurried, personal and genuinely enjoyable.

🚐 Ready to explore Scotland your way?

Motorhome and campervan hire gives you the freedom to travel without compromise — wherever the road takes you.