OVERNIGHT stays away from home are not allowed under England's second lockdown rules, meaning even staycations are off the cards this Autumn.

Travel outside of your local area is discouraged under lockdown restrictions, which come into force on Thursday, November 5, and, while there are some exceptions, holidays are not one of them. 

Whether you were planning a caravan trip to Whitby or flying to Spain, overnight stays away from your primary residence will not be allowed come Bonfire Night.

It also means you cannot stay in a second home, if you own one, or stay with anyone you do not live with or are in a support bubble with. 

You can, however, travel or stay in the UK or abroad for work and education.

Michael Gove told Andrew Marr: “Sadly, we’re saying that when it comes to international travel – of course if international travel is required for work or for other critical reasons, there are legitimate exemptions – but from Wednesday night, Thursday morning, our message is that people should stay home.”

Approved reasons to travel:

  • travelling to work where this cannot be done from home
  • travelling to education and for caring responsibilities
  • hospital GP and other medical appointments or visits where you have had an accident or are concerned about your health
  • visiting venues that are open, including essential retail
  • exercise, if you need to make a short journey to do so

Those already abroad do not need to come home immediately but should check with their airline for any updates. 

Meanwhile, people in Wales will not be allowed to travel outside of the country without a reasonable excuse when the firebreak lockdown ends on November 9. International travel from Wales will also not be allowed while lockdown restrictions remain in force in England.

People in England will not be able to travel into Wales without a reasonable excuse during the month-long lockdown.

Mark Tanzer, chief executive of travel trade organisation Abta, said: “Today’s announcement that holidays in the UK and abroad will not be allowed under lockdown in England will mean a complete shutdown for travel businesses which have already been severely damaged by the pandemic – but public health must come first.

“We’re pleased to see the Government has recognised the significant impact the latest lockdown will have on businesses and has extended the furlough scheme until the start of December.

“The Government must also make good progress with the Global Travel Taskforce, ensuring a testing regime is ready to go as soon as lockdown is lifted.

“Anyone due to travel imminently on a package holiday should speak to their travel company to discuss their options.”