Quick summary: New research reveals that UK searches for domestic staycations have surged by 45% alongside a massive 138% rise in digital detox queries as families actively seek to escape modern technological distractions. Data shows that 91% of families admit to using electronic devices during shared time, a habit that relationship experts warn reduces meaningful interaction and leaves loved ones feeling unseen and unimportant. For public policy and mental health, prioritizing screen-free coastal holidays offers a vital intervention towards resetting fractured family dynamics, lowering collective stress levels, and restoring emotional well-being through genuine human connection.
UK searches for staycations have surged by 45% in the past month, according to new research, as families look to recreate classic seaside holidays and step away from digital distractions.
Ongoing uncertainty around overseas travel has played a role in this growing demand, but new research from Parkdean Resorts points to a deeper desire for nostalgic, back-to-basics family breaks by the coast.
With the peak holiday season approaching, Parkdean’s new campaign, “Parkdean Unplugged“, revealed that 75% of families are open to the idea of a nostalgic, back-to-basics holiday. This comes at a time when only 32% of families manage to spend uninterrupted time together each day.
The survey findings suggest that the pressures and distractions of modern life could be to blame, with 91% of families admitting to using their devices during shared family time. This highlights the challenge of being fully present with loved ones, and many parents report that constant device use during holidays reduces meaningful interactions.
This has driven a massive increase in interest in digital detoxes. Over the past year, UK searches for “digital detox” have increased by 138%, while worldwide searches for “digital detox retreat” have risen by 1,358%. Meanwhile, UK searches for “best UK seaside towns” have increased by 196% in the past quarter, reflecting growing interest in domestic coastal destinations.
What families want from an unplugged holiday
According to the research, the specific elements that appeal most to families about a screen-free break include
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Spending better quality time: Highlighted by 38% of respondents.
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Feeling more present: Valued by 28% of respondents.
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Improving mental well-being: Pointed to by 21% of top respondents.
To understand how an unplugged holiday can provide these benefits, Parkdean partnered with relationship expert and So Synced co-founder Jessica Alderson, who explained the importance of putting down screens.
“You feel more present,” Alderson said. “Putting your phone down and unplugging is one of the best ways to make sure you’re present with your family or partner. If someone is constantly checking their phone, it can subtly communicate that there are more important or interesting things going on.”
Alderson noted that breaking this habit makes loved ones feel seen. “There are exceptions, such as urgent work situations, but if you’re constantly checking your phone when you’re with loved ones, it can leave them feeling unseen, unheard, and unimportant. This isn’t about never looking at your phone, but rather finding a balance that lets the people around you know they come first.”
Addressing the reality of modern habits, Alderson added: “You feel more connected to one another. It’s understandable that 91% of families use devices during shared family time. Life doesn’t stop just because you’re on holiday. But there’s a difference between a quick check and constantly disappearing into your phone in ways that affect how present you are and disrupt how connected you are.”
Recreating the traditional seaside experience
Anthony Reilly, Marketing Director at Parkdean Resorts, also commented on the rise of nostalgic, screen-free holidays.
“Creating opportunities for families to spend quality time together is at the heart of what we do,” Reilly said. “We want to make it easy for guests of all ages to step away from the distractions of everyday life, connect with one another, and create memories that will stay with them for years to come.”
“For many of us, some of the most treasured childhood memories were made on family holidays by the coast, playing games, exploring outdoors, and being carefree,” Reilly continued. “We really want to encourage people to rediscover that feeling by putting down their phones and spending time together.”
Parkdean, which operates multiple parks across the UK offering caravan holidays, entertainment, and beachside locations, is using the campaign to encourage simple activities such as beach games, nature walks, and shared meals without digital interruptions.
The long-term benefits of detoxing
Independent experts note that digital detox periods can actively help reset family dynamics. Reduced screen time during holidays often leads to better sleep patterns, lower stress levels, and stronger emotional bonds.
An unplugged approach also allows children to engage more in outdoor play and face-to-face conversations. These effects are particularly valuable for children whose attention is frequently divided by notifications and entertainment apps, providing benefits that extend well beyond the trip itself.
The findings add to growing interest in digital detox holidays and screen-free family experiences as more travellers seek opportunities to disconnect from technology and reconnect with one another.