Nostalgia Travel: Why ‘90s Family Holidays Are Making a Comeback

Bucket and spade in hand, Tupperware sandwiches, cassette tapes playing on repeat, and the scent of sun cream in the air — for many, this was the recipe for the perfect ‘90s family holiday. And now, those retro getaways are making a big comeback. Welcome to the era of nostalgia travel.

In a world full of screens, fast-paced itineraries, and luxury escapes, there’s a growing desire for simpler, more familiar breaks. Families are rediscovering the magic of classic British holidays — the kind that involved car journeys to the coast, soggy fish and chips on the pier, and entire days spent in seaside arcades.

🏖 Back to Basics, Back to Joy

Why the sudden shift? Part of it is driven by the current appetite for authenticity and slower travel. There’s comfort in the familiar – and nothing feels more familiar than the destinations and traditions of childhood. From caravan parks in Cornwall to camping in the Lake District, parents are now recreating their own childhood memories for the next generation.

These holidays didn’t need five-star resorts or fast Wi-Fi. They were about togetherness: family games on the beach, staying up late to watch the stars, or cramming into a tent during an unexpected downpour. And that nostalgia brings more than memories – it taps into a feeling of freedom, of connection, and of being truly present.

🛶 Retro Is the New Trend

Nostalgia travel isn’t just about where we go – it’s how we travel too. More people are embracing road trips over flights, board games over tablets, and DIY fun over packaged experiences. There’s a certain joy in rediscovering the humble joys of a bucket and spade, or teaching your kids to skim stones just like you did.

Classic destinations like Skegness, Whitby, and the Isle of Wight are enjoying a resurgence. Traditional seaside resorts, nature escapes, and unplugged adventures are topping travel wishlists once again. And it’s not just about the price tag — it’s about the priceless feeling of stepping back into a simpler time.

So this year, consider going old-school. Revisit those retro holiday spots, pack the car full of snacks, and relive the magic of the ‘90s family getaway — because sometimes, the best holidays are the ones that take you back.