The best time to book your 2025 holiday, according to an expert
As autumn settles in the UK with shorter days and colder weather looming, thoughts turn to holiday escapes. However, experts advise that for those planning a long-haul trip in the early part of the year, it may already be too late to secure the best deals. The benefits of booking early now far outweigh any potential savings from last-minute offers.
According to Tim Hentschel, a travel expert from HotelPlanner, booking short-haul flights around five months in advance can lead to nearly 50% savings on flight and accommodation costs. For long-haul trips, it is recommended to book around six months in advance, with potential price reductions of up to 55%.
To perfect your holiday planning, consider these expert tips. Booking early allows access to the best flight seats, hotel options, and room preferences. Early bird bookings also often come with benefits like early booking offers (EBOs), low deposit options, and even reasonably priced upgrades to premium cabins.
For families travelling during peak periods, it is crucial not to delay booking. While last-minute deals can sometimes offer savings, they are rare during popular travel times. The team from TravelSupermarket advises that prices for low-cost or scheduled flights typically only rise, especially for package holidays.
The pre-Christmas period is highlighted as the ideal time to book a ski break. With ski season demand high and peak dates booking out fast, securing a ski holiday early has become essential. Look out for discounts and deals during this period, such as buy-one-get-one-free lift-pass offers.
Post-pandemic, long-haul flight prices have increased alongside a surge in demand for seats. To secure favourable prices and timings, booking long-haul trips between six and eight months ahead is recommended. Keep an eye out for sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday for potential discounts.
Utilising flight comparison websites and setting price alerts for preferred destinations can help snag a good deal when prices drop. With airline and hotel prices constantly changing, booking during non-peak hours is also a savvy way to save money.
In conclusion, for those looking to embark on a 2025 holiday, early planning and booking are key to securing the best deals and options for a memorable travel experience.