Are 'EDTs' The Best Way To Enjoy More Mini Breaks In 2026?

‘Extreme day trips’ are having a moment.

Parents editor at HuffPost UK

There’s no denying plenty of us love a nice long holiday to unwind and unplug from the stresses of modern life. A fortnight next to the beach? Bliss!

But being able to take huge chunks of time off work, or take the kids out of school (’cause summer holiday travel can be pretty extortionate), isn’t a luxury lots of us have. Plus, some of us want to see more of the world – and only have so much time to do so.

It’s perhaps unsurprising then that travel companies are seeing interest in EDTs – or extreme day trips – in 2026.

Fuelled by low-cost flights, high-speed rail connections and a desire to see more of the world on a budget (all while preserving precious annual leave), EDTs involve travelling to other cities early in the morning, spending a full day sightseeing, eating and exploring, before returning home that evening.

In fact, one in four millennials and Gen Z travellers plan to take a one-day international trip in 2026, according to Expedia.

The benefit is you save on accommodation costs while getting to explore a new place. You can also enjoy several trips without breaking the bank – or ploughing through PTO (paid time off).

Although it may sound ambitious – and perhaps even a little tiring – Kayak reports that 66% of UK travellers plan to take several shorter trips this........

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