With the summer holidays approaching fast, new research from Enterprise Mobility reveals how travellers are reimagining their ideal getaway. And the results are clear: it’s all about flexibility, discovery, and making the most of time with family and friends.
According to our survey of over 500 UK residents with summer travel plans, 78% are preparing for at least one overnight leisure trip, with August shaping up to be the peak month. Nearly half (45%) are looking for a mix of relaxation and adventure – not just lazing poolside, but truly exploring.
And more people are doing that by car. Around 41% will hit the road to reach their destination, with 15% planning to rent a vehicle – either for the full journey or once they arrive. It’s all about freedom to roam, discover hidden gems, and break free from fixed itineraries.
“Renting a car offers unmatched flexibility,”
says Jasmine Harman, TV presenter of A Place in the Sun and long-time advocate for immersive travel.
“You can head off the beaten path, explore places that public transport doesn’t reach, and enjoy spontaneous adventures – whether it’s stumbling across a secluded beach or stopping at a scenic village pub.”
The findings from Enterprise’s Summer Travel survey echo Jasmine’s sentiments. Among summer renters, 64% say having a car lets them explore the local area more freely, and over half use it to visit places off the tourist trail. And Jasmine speaks from experience: as a frequent traveller, she’s also a loyal Enterprise customer:
“I’ve used Enterprise Rent-A-Car for years. It’s my go-to for hassle-free travel. Whether I’m on holiday or just heading out for a quick getaway, it’s always easy to pick up a car wherever I am - and the service is consistently great. And let’s be honest, I’m a bit of a last-minute planner! Life gets busy, and sometimes you just have to grab the moment. I love throwing everything in the car, not worrying about baggage limits, piling in with the kids, playlist on, and off we go."
And while the UK – especially the South West, Scotland and Wales – remains a top choice for summer travel, many are of course venturing abroad. Spain and France continue to be favourites, and car rental plays a key role there too, offering the same sense of spontaneity and access to harder-to-reach locations.
Jasmine adds:
“My top tip for a last-minute summer trip? Take a road trip. Plan a loose itinerary...and leave room for serendipity. Some of the best memories come from unexpected detours. And don’t forget to create a great playlist – music and memories go hand in hand!”
Whether you're exploring Cornwall’s coastline, the lavender fields of Provence, or the rolling hills of Tuscany, Enterprise Rent-A-Car has you covered. With more than 1,500 branches across Europe and a fleet of over 290,000 vehicles in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa , we have the right vehicle, in the right place, at the right time – whatever your dream holiday looks like.From roomy SUVs for family adventures to eco-conscious hybrids for sustainable getaways, Enterprise Rent-A-Car offers a wide range of options to suit your travel style. After all, it’s not just about where you go – it’s about how you get there.
Wherever your dream holiday takes you this summer – we’re here for it.