While Brits are busy booking their 2025 holidays, one expert says they should be looking even further ahead to get the best deals – with one type of trip to book now
As we wrap up the first full working week of 2025, it’s likely that families are casting their thoughts towards their holiday plans for the year, particularly as the dreary British weather has us all pining for sunnier climes.
This upcoming Saturday has been christened ‘Sunshine Saturday’ by those in the travel sector. It’s the first day off following a complete week back on the grind after New Year celebrations, and traditionally signals the peak period for securing overseas holiday bookings.
With both ‘Sunshine Saturday’ and the ongoing January sales in full swing, there’s definitely scope to snag some cracking deals for any impending escapes.
However, one travel guru is advising to cast your net even further into the future than this year’s holidays to bag the best bargains.
Rebecca Bebbington, consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes, is dishing out some top tips, recommending booking your 2026 holiday pronto to guarantee you get the cream of the crop when it comes to deals, reports the Express.
She advised: “2026 might seem a lifetime away, but trust us when we say booking in advance comes with some exciting benefits! Many travel companies these days open bookings for flights and packages up to 18 months in advance, giving you access to the best prices and availability.”
She added: “As well as lower prices, when you book early, you can secure your holidays with lower deposits, and enjoy longer repayment terms.
“Plus, airlines and hotels often offer their best prices when bookings open. The longer you wait and availability decreases prices go up!”
Another tip shared by Rebecca is to go for package or bundle deals, as these typically offer better value than reserving flights and accommodation separately.
She explains: “Travel retailers like easyJet Holidays and TUI offer competitive rates for bundled deals and even include extras like child places, luggage and transfers.
“We always recommend looking for packages that include these additional benefits as, on their own, they can add a couple of hundred pounds onto your booking total.”
When it comes to families heading to sought-after resorts, Rebecca suggests: “All-inclusive packages also offer great value for money, especially when booking for a family at a popular resort.”
Rebecca’s top tips for an affordable holiday
- Book early and even consider booking your 2026 holiday now.
- Take advantage of seasonal sales.
- Book domestic flights 1-2 months in advance, 4-6 months for international ones, and 12 months ahead if travelling in peak seasons.
- Travel off-peak for bigger savings.
- Use discount codes.
- Bundle flights and hotels for a better deal.
- Be flexible with dates and airports.