Value-for-money drives summer plans as more Bristolians seek ways to cut costs on days out
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Bristol families are becoming increasingly cost-conscious when planning summer activities, with almost half (44%) 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 Bristol when choosing a day out, with almost four in ten (39%) ranking it as their most important factor.
The appeal of staying closer to home is also growing, with one in five Bristolians (20%) saying the rising cost of overseas holidays is making UK days out more attractive this summer.
Darren Milton at Boundless, the membership club for public sector and civil service workers and retirees, 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.”
Bristol families are set for a busy summer, with almost three in five (59%) expecting to take three or more UK day trips over the summer holidays. Affordability remains a priority, with 36% citing cost as a key factor when choosing a day out.
Locally, there are plenty of days out to enjoy during the holidays. The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) is hosting its Dance Out exhibition until 9 August, celebrating dance as a natural part of everyday life. Boundless Plus members receive 50% off exhibition entry with their National Art Pass benefit.
Just a short journey away at WWT Slimbridge, the Dragonfly Festival runs from 18 July to 3 September. Families can take part in daily dragonfly safaris and pond dipping, alongside crafts, silent discos and circus skills workshops. Boundless and Boundless Plus members 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 Bristol residents remain firmly rooted in classic British traditions. More than half (56%) said beaches were among the destinations they were most likely to visit this summer, ahead of heritage sites (31%), theme parks (24%), rural attractions (24%) and wildlife parks (22%).
Miriam Swithinbank, Bristol-based NHS nurse and Boundless member, said: “Finances are always tight, so our family makes savings through membership clubs like National Trust and Boundless.
“We often go to WWT Slimbridge together with our children in the holidays, which offers free entry for Boundless members. With Slimbridge not being too far from Bristol, we go about four times a year.”
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/
