New tool helps you maximise festival experiences without breaking the bank

Research has unveiled that Gen Z’s dream summer would include five festivals and four overseas trips, despite having less than £1,000 to spend.

They aspire to enjoy seven beach days and embark on four staycations during the year’s warmest three months. A visit to a theme park is also a summer essential for 23%.

However, 79% are uncertain they’ll be able to afford all their desired activities – hence, nearly four in 10 are devising cost-effective travel strategies to maximise their budget.

Nonetheless, 23% are adamant about securing tickets to at least one music festival this summer, and a holiday abroad with friends is ‘non-negotiable’. Yet, 24% won’t budge on ensuring comfortable and reliable transport to any events they attend.

Quality transport between events is deemed crucial by three quarters of respondents, as they seek comfort on long journeys and aim to kick off their trip on a high note.

A useful tool has been developed to help festival-goers maximise their experiences without breaking the bank. Created by National Express, simply enter your postcode and that of your favourite party companion, and it will display all the summer festivities you could attend.

John Boughton, commercial director for National Express, which sponsored the research, commented: “While the appetite for adventure is sky-high, the reality of rising costs means many young people are having to balance their dreams with what’s actually doable.

“As our tool shows, we are lucky enough to have hundreds of festivals and events around the UK at our fingertips, but a big blocker is the cost of an entertainment-filled weekend in a field – the prices can be well into the hundreds.

“That’s why we’re seeing Gen Z getting smart with their spending-being selective, savvy and seeking out ways to make the most of their money, with the travel there and back being key.”

The study also revealed that Gen Z plans to attend six BBQs this summer and enjoy fish and chips by the seaside six times, while 29% would prefer to spend more on dining out or takeaways to avoid the hassle of cooking.

One in five have made plans to splurge on one or two major items this summer. However, three-quarters now view enjoying the summer as a ‘luxury’.

Despite this, almost half still believe it’s more important to have fun in the sun, than be sensible.

John added: “Ultimately, Gen Z aren’t prepared to sit the summer out. They’re finding clever ways to stay in the moment, prioritise what matters most, and still have an unforgettable time and it is encouraging that they are looking for affordable, reliable and comfortable travel to get the most out of their summer.”