Zoom Fatigued Brits Are Seeking a Digital Detox
- More than a third (36%) of Brits want a ‘digital detox’ from their screens
- More than a quarter (26%) want to include an activity or sport in their next break
- Adventure breaks set to be popular during the year of the “Great British staycation” as almost a fifth (18%) have become “more interested” in an adventure break
More than a third (36%) of Brits want to take a “digital detox” and enjoy time away from their phones, laptops and computers.
The research*, commissioned by Plas y Brenin, the National Outdoor Centre, suggests many Brits are feeling digital burnout after being reliant on technology for work, life admin and socialising since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Having turned to nature and the outdoors for respite, and to stay mentally and physically fit for more than a year, Brits appear to have awoken their adventurous side. More than a quarter (26%) want to include a sport or activity in their next break. Almost a fifth (17%) have booked or are close to booking an adventure trip or plan to take on a sporting challenge such as a marathon or bike race.
Walking and hiking holidays are likely to be the most popular adventure break this year with 20% of Brits planning one, followed by cycling (11%) and watersports trips (11%) while 27% are keen to try their hands at a new activity during their next break.
With 2021 the year of the Great British staycation, camping and glamping are likely to be more popular than ever as 39% of Brits plan to stay somewhere rural rather than urban for their next break.
Helen Barnard, Chief Instructor at Plas y Brenin, the National Outdoor Centre, commented: “While technology has been a lifesaver in keeping people in work and in contact with loved ones, we all need a break from it and lots of people will be feeling digital fatigue. After a difficult year, many Brits have turned to the outdoors to keep sane, healthy and happy, which seems to be a lasting trend as many of us are looking to include outdoor activities as part of our next break.
“It’s great to see that appetite for adventure has increased and so many people are enthusiastic about trying a new sport or activity while they take a break from work and the digital world. There are so many benefits associated with being outside and being active outside. Regardless of age or ability, there’s no doubt it will help us emerge from the pandemic happier and healthier.”
