Brits urged to book holidays now after last minute surge

Attractive prices and wet weather in the UK have prompted a surge in last minute holiday bookings for this summer.

Travel agents across the country are reporting a rush in late bookings, particularly from families looking for some sunshine before the children go back to school in September.

Brits are also keen to book holidays before the Brexit deadline of 31st October, say the latest Travel Insights from market research company GfK.

Its latest data shows a double-digit growth (15%) in bookings in the week ending August 10th, on the back of an 8% jump the week before.

David Hope, Senior Client Insight Director at GfK, comments: “Looking at the most popular destinations, Turkey, Tunisia, Greece and Bulgaria have seen the highest incremental gains for the season to date. However, in the last couple of months since Brexit got pushed back to 31^st October, we have also seen a resurgence in the more traditional EU destinations.”

Brexit uncertainty had dented bookings at the start of the year, traditionally the peak booking period. As a result, many tour operators dropped prices to boost demand.

Emily from Encore Travel, located in Chelmsford and a member of The Travel Network Group, said: “For us, late deals for families wanting to get away to the sunshine have been particularly popular, along with a lot of long haul, multi-destination trips outside the school holidays.

“There are still some fantastic deals around but anyone who wants to get some last-minute sunshine needs to book as soon as possible. There are only a few weeks left before the end of the school holidays and holidays are selling fast.

Ibiza – Gatwick Flights

27^th August for 7 nights

Half Board Plus = £1609.00 total for 2 adults 2 children

Costa Blanca – Gatwick Flights

27^th August for 7 nights

Full Board = £2376.00 total for 2 adults 2 children

Majorca – Gatwick Flights

27^th August for 7 nights

All Inclusive = £2563.00 total for 2 adults 2 children

Costa Dorada – Gatwick Flights

25^th August for 7 nights

Half Board = £1188.00 total for 2 adults

Turkey – Stansted Flights

24^th August for 7 nights

Bed and Breakfast = £1179.00 total for 2 adults