Trips to the beach voted best value by UK parents

Visiting the beach has been voted the best value for money day out in a recent survey of over 2,500 UK parents.

The survey, carried out by Bobatoo.co.uk, found that UK parents feel the beach offers better value for money than other popular days out such as theme parks, local parks, the zoo and museums.

The days out that offer the worst value for money were certain theme parks, the cinema and city breaks.

During the summer, parents paid most of their budget for family days out on entry tickets, food and travel – so it’s easy to see why the beach has become a favourite for parents who want to enjoy some quality family time without paying over the odds.

As well as being a cost-effective option, trips to the beach can be tailored to suit families in a way other days out, weekends away or family holiday choices cannot.

Whether it’s a private and secluded beach, a beach suited to sports and games, a place to have a family picnic or just to relax and enjoy the time spent together, families can customise their beach getaway in any way they like – and manage the costs according to their budget.

Along with identifying beach trips as the best value for money day out, the survey by Bobatoo uncovered some other interesting findings.

Apparently, Dad’s spend more money on days out with the kids than Mum’s – spending £200 - £400 compared to the £100 - £300 spent by Mum’s.

With 60% of parents taking their children on five or more days out over the summer, it seems the pattern is that parents look for value for money with the most common amount spent over the summer being £200 - £300.

However, despite the rising costs of everything from entry tickets to food and fuel for travel, UK parents are planning to spend more over the summer holidays next year. 46% of survey respondents said they would spend more on days out next year, with less than a third (30%) saying they would spend less.

 Announcing the results of the survey, a spokeswoman for Bobatoo said:

“It is clear from these findings that, while families may be looking to save money and not overspend this year, they are optimistic for the future.

“With the current levels of financial uncertainty, it is no surprise parents opted to spend more time over the summer on domestic days out that offer value for money. It will be interesting to see if this trend continues into next year – when the economic impact of Brexit should be more apparent to UK consumers.”

Luckily for parents thinking of arranging a beach holiday for the family, the UK is spoilt for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches that cater to all tastes. With so many coastal cottages and self-catering holiday homes up and down the country’s coast line to choose from, a trip to the beach is the perfect choice for a short break with the family.