As the saying goes, the world is your oyster. But with so many places to visit, a lifetime simply isn’t enough to do it all.
Rather than pick and choose which holiday or city break to book, forward-thinking travellers have come up with a better solution: do more in less time to fit it all in.
Gaining momentum on social media, the trend for extreme daytripping has skyrocketed. Several Facebook have been formed to share tips and advice, while Google searches are up 1182% in the past quarter.
Essentially, the idea is to visit an overseas destination within 24 hours – saving time and money while learning to be sharper, smarter and savvier along the way.
So how is it possible?
Although the hours might be unsociable for some, budget flights topping and tailing the day allow travellers to spend maximum time in a destination and come at a far more affordable price tag. By avoiding the need for accommodation, you won’t have to fork out on an expensive hotel either.
“Before planning your trip, tourists should conduct research into the different activities available through local tour operators, ideally prioritising those high-impact experiences that will be memorable to look back on,” says Samuel Jefferies, senior growth marketing manager at booking platform Bókun.
“Booking in advance and checking seasonal schedules and opening hours will ensure that you don’t end up disappointed, while researching local customs and events could see you discover some cool events during your visit.
“Once you’ve mapped out your itinerary, make sure to browse reviews from other travellers on platforms like Tripadvisor to ensure you feel confident about your selections.”
In terms of destinations, options range as far Agadir in Morocco. For example, a Ryanair flight departs Manchester at 6.20am and easyJet returns at 19.15, giving you nine hours on the ground – enough time to visit Souk El Had market and relax on the beach.
According to a review of guest reviews on Tripadvisor, other popular 24-hour hops include Dublin in Ireland, Valletta in Malta and the Algarve in Portugal.
But – in the long run – does hard and fast fun come at an environmental cost?
Taking more flights means producing greater carbon emissions and potentially exacerbating issues of overtourism in already popular destinations.
One solution to the problem is to invest in carbon offsets. Another option is to ditch planes altogether and travel by train. The Eurostar, for example, connects Paris and Rotterdam with London.
Besides, advocates argue the largely solo-led trend is far less damaging than cruising, where guests also visit cities on day trips but do so en masse.
So for now, the trend for extreme daytripping is set to stay.
