Add a digital detox to your summer vacation

This year 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.

26% want to include a sport or activity in their next break.

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. 

20% of Brits planning a walking or hiking trip. 

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.

About Plas y Brenin

Plas y Brenin National Outdoor Centre was founded in 1955 and is a world-renowned provider of adventure sports training. From a base in the scenic heart of Snowdonia, Plas y Brenin’s work is focused on developing inspiring coaches, instructors and leaders in adventure sport, be they volunteers or working professionally in the sector, to better support people, from all backgrounds, to get active in the outdoors.

The centre also offers an extensive programme of personal skill development courses in rock climbing, hillwalking and mountaineering, kayaking, canoeing, sea kayaking and mountain biking. The centre also delivers a diverse and vibrant events programme, with adventure talks, environmental lectures, mountain safety lessons and sector-leading conferences. 

Owned by Sport England, Plas y Brenin is operated on their behalf by the educational charity, the Mountain Training Trust (MTT); a not-for-profit charity founded by the British Mountaineering Council, Mountain Training UK and Mountain Training England. The charity was formed specifically to run the centre and ensure delivery of world-class training and encourage more people to get active in the outdoors, regardless of their abilities or experience.

To find out more about Plas y Brenin’s comprehensive course programme, facilities, business and educational services please visit www.pyb.co.uk