Staycations are back, with over half of Irish holidaymakers (56%) planning a domestic trip this year, according to new research commissioned by Enterprise Mobility.

The findings show that freedom and flexibility are key priorities for Irish holidaymakers, with access to a car playing an important role in how people plan and enjoy trips at home: 

• 42% of respondents said the main benefit of having access to a car while on holiday is the freedom and flexibility to travel at their own pace.
• 26% said a car makes it easier to explore nearby towns and villages.
• 19% said it helps them access more rural, coastal or beach locations. 

The research also revealed Ireland’s must-see destinations, with the Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry and the Giant’s Causeway topping the list. With many of Ireland’s most popular staycation spots and scenic routes best explored by road, access to a vehicle allows holidaymakers to make the most of their time away. 

When asked to name their favourite county for a staycation, Kerry emerged as the top choice among respondents:

• Kerry led the way with 17% of the vote.
• Galway followed in second place with 13%.
• Dublin secured third place with 12%.
• Cork was chosen by 9% of respondents.
• Donegal also received 9% of the vote.

At a regional level, Munster was named the most popular staycation region, chosen by more than a third (37%) of respondents, ahead of Leinster at 27%, Connacht at 22% and Ulster at 14%.

The findings also show that, for those travelling by car with a group or extended family, planning the journey can make all the difference. While 30% of travellers identified traffic as a challenge, 22% cited navigating the journey and 18% pointed to the frequency of breaks. 

Another interesting finding from the research is the clear differences in staycation preferences across age groups. Kerry’s appeal is particularly strong among older respondents, rising to almost a quarter (23%) among those aged 65 and over. Dublin, meanwhile, performs most strongly among younger adults, with nearly a fifth (18%) of both 18–24-year-olds and 25–34-year-olds naming it as their favourite county for a staycation.

Commenting on the findings of the report, Brendan Grieve, Vice President and General Manager for Enterprise Mobility, Ireland, said: “The research shows that the Irish staycation is very much part of people’s summer plans. What stands out is the desire for flexibility. People want to explore at their own pace, often visit more than one place and make the most of the destinations on their doorstep.

“From Kerry and Galway to Dublin, Cork and Donegal, the top staycation counties all offer very different types of breaks. Whether it’s a coastal road trip, a city stay, a family visit or a few days exploring towns and villages, having access to the right vehicle gives people the freedom to shape the trip around them and enjoy a more comfortable, flexible trip.”

Staycation