Value-for-money drives summer plans as Brightonians seek ways to cut costs on days out
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Brighton families are becoming increasingly cost-conscious when planning summer activities, with almost a third (28%) actively seeking more discounts and deals on attractions and experiences compared to a year ago.
New research from Boundless found value for money is now the leading consideration for people in Brighton when choosing a day out, with 42% ranking it as their most important factor.
Brighton families are set for a busy summer, with more than half (54%) expecting to take three or more UK day trips over the summer holidays. Affordability remains a priority, with 42% of Brighton residents citing cost as a key factor when choosing a day out.
Darren Milton at Boundless, the membership club for public sector and civil service workers and retirees, based in Brighton, said: “Families are clearly looking for ways to make their cash go further this summer, with value for money now the top consideration when choosing a day out and more people actively searching for discounts than a year ago.
“What’s encouraging is that people aren’t cutting back on experiences altogether. Instead, they’re looking for smarter ways to enjoy quality time together, whether that’s visiting destinations closer to home or making the most of offers and membership benefits.”
Locally, there are plenty of days out to enjoy this summer. The internationally renowned Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at Brighton Museum & Art Gallery is on display until 6 September, as well as the Into the Blue exhibition until 20 September.
At Brighton’s Royal Pavilion, visitors can discover the Dragons exhibition plus Dragon's Den storytelling sessions, which run until 21 August. Boundless Plus members enjoy unlimited entry to these venues and exhibitions with their National Art Pass benefit.
Just a short journey away at WWT Arundel, the Dragonfly Foot Safari runs from 23 July to 31 August, alongside dragonfly-themed face painting on 28 and 30 July, live storytelling on selected dates and the Pondemonium Silent Disco from 3 to 5 August. Boundless and Boundless Plus members can enjoy unlimited entry.
Personal finance expert Lynn Beattie, known as Mrs Mummypenny, said: “Families want to make summer memories, but the cost of living is squeezing household budgets tighter than ever.
“Even a simple day out can spiral once you add travel, food, parking and entrance fees, so parents are being far more selective about where and how they spend.”
According to the study, the top summer experiences for Brighton residents remain firmly rooted in classic British traditions. More than two in five (42%) said beaches were among the destinations they were most likely to visit this summer, ahead of countryside attractions (31%), hiking experiences (24%), heritage sites (21%) and wildlife attractions (16%).
Boundless, the membership club for working and retired public sector and civil service workers, provides a range of deals and discounts to help its members make the most of their free time. Membership is available from £45 per year.
To find out more, please visit: www.boundless.co.uk.
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Editors notes
Research methodology:
The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,000 British residents in June 2026. Censuswide is a member of the Market Research Society (MRS) and the British Polling Council (BPC), and a signatory of the Global Data Quality Pledge. It adheres to the MRS Code of Conduct and ESOMAR principles.
About Boundless:
Boundless is a membership club for civil service and public sector workers who are looking for inspiration on getting the most out of their free time. With a heritage and expertise dating back more than 100 years, Boundless offers its 150,000+ members deals on hundreds of unique experiences, events, volunteer activities and things to do. It’s also mutual, so all profits go straight back into the club to benefit members.
About Mrs Mummypenny:
Lynn Beattie, otherwise known as Mrs Mummypenny, is a single mum to three boys and one cat, living in Hertfordshire. Lynn has been a personal finance expert for 10 years and regularly writes for newspapers and magazines, as well as appearing on BBC TV/radio, Channel 5, and Sky News regularly.
Visit her website at: https://www.mrsmummypenny.co.uk/
