Alison Hammond’s new travel show with son Aidan proves that ‘Florida can absolutely be done on a budget’

Alison Hammond loves a Florida holiday. From enjoying the summer sun to chasing an adrenaline rush at one of the state’s world-class theme parks, the Sunshine State is a destination that keeps her coming back for more.

However, in her new BBC Two series Alison Hammond’s Florida Unpacked, the Great British Bake Off host and former Big Brother star is doing Florida completely differently than she ever has before. With her 19-year-old son, Aidan, by her side, she’s exploring the continental USA’s southernmost state in a totally new way.

“When I was younger, Florida was all about the big theme parks for me, but there’s so much more to explore beyond that,” says Alison, 49, from Birmingham.

“This trip was eye-opening – we visited some stunning, historical places that I never knew existed. It was absolutely beautiful, and I loved every minute of it.

”The Hammond family’s adventure goes off the beaten track while also being budget friendly, as the duo adopt the ‘home on wheels’ approach and hire an RV for their travels. With everything they need – beds, kitchen, loo, shower, and transport – all in one vehicle, they could jet up and down the state as they pleased, and access locations they might not otherwise dream of.

“The natural beauty is unbelievable,” says Alison.

“As we were canoeing through the natural springs, we saw monkeys and all sorts of wildlife – it was just stunning. I didn’t see any alligators, but they were definitely in there!

”Far from being just another tourist, Alison really knows her stuff when it comes to travelling. She worked as a tour rep for years, following in the footsteps of her mum, who was a travel agent and imparted lots of wisdom about travelling on a budget and making the most of family trips.Alison and her mum fell in love with Florida together, making this trip somewhat bittersweet.

“Obviously, my mum wasn’t there this time, so that was sad,” says Alison, whose beloved mum passed away in 2020 following a battle with liver and lung cancer.

“But it was still lovely because we could reminisce about the things we used to do together,” she adds.

“It was nice to have those memories, but it was bittersweet.

“My mum, who originally inspired me to go to Florida, was always a big part of those trips. Both Aidan and I have so many memories with my mum, and this trip was a beautiful time spent with my son.

“It’s special to pass these experiences down to him, so he can share them with his own family one day.

”Parents of teenagers will know just how tricky it can be to get their almost-grown-up kids to come along to, let alone enjoy, a family holiday. But Alison and Aidan love travelling together – they are peas in a pod, despite “loads of arguments – mainly about directions!”, Aidan says.

Alison wasn’t worried “at all” about her son thinking it’s uncool to travel with his mum.

“He absolutely loves it,” she says.

“He’s always asking: ‘Can I come?’. The other day, he was saying how much fun we have together – I bring the lols, I am the life and soul, and he realises that!

“He’s been on plenty of trips with his friends, but he always says he has the best time with me.”

Aidan, 19, reveals that he “learned a lot” about his mum on this trip, which was also his first time filming a TV series.

“I learned that she’s actually a professional at her job!” he laughs.

“I used to think presenting was easy, like: ‘Oh yeah, she just stands there and talks’, but then I actually had to do it myself, and I realised: ‘Wow, she’s really good at this!’

”Like his mum, Aidan also loved getting out into the wonderful nature Florida has to offer on their alternative road trip.

“I really loved the Everglades,” he says.

“As much as I do enjoy the theme parks, I actually preferred being out on the water, exploring the Everglades and the springs. Even though it was a bit scary at times – because you’re always thinking an alligator might sneak up on you – they’re actually really chill and don’t bother you!”

While ‘really chill’ and ‘alligator’ are unexpected words to be used in the same sentence, Aidan’s experience is testament to the adventurous hidden gems ready and waiting in Florida for those keen to explore – and, crucially in these challenging economic times, for far less money than you might think.

This, Alison says, is what she hopes viewers will take away from her new travel series: "First and foremost, that family comes first, and secondly, that you can experience these amazing places without spending a fortune,” she says.

“Florida can absolutely be done on a budget. If you’re organised and do a bit of research, there are so many free or low-cost activities – like getting a tour of a fire station, or visiting parks that are a fraction of the price of the big ones.“In today’s cost-of-living climate, I think this show will be really helpful. With a little effort, you can make it affordable. And that’s what Aidan and I have done for you – we’ve done the research so you don’t have to.

“Tune in, and you’ll get all the little secrets on how to save money.”

Alison Hammond’s Florida Unpacked starts on BBC Two on Monday, January 27.