As the first full working week of 2025 draws to a close, families are likely starting to consider their holiday plans for the year, particularly as the dreary British weather has many dreaming of sunnier climes.
This upcoming Saturday is recognised in the travel sector as ‘Sunshine Saturday’, the first day off following a complete week back at work after the New Year, signifying the peak period for booking foreign holidays. With both ‘Sunshine Saturday’ and the ongoing January sales, there’s certainly an opportunity to snag some fantastic deals for any forthcoming trips.
However, one travel expert has recommended looking even further ahead than this year’s holidays to secure the best bargains. Offering some valuable advice, Rebecca Bebbington, consumer expert at NetVoucherCodes, suggests booking your 2026 holiday as soon as possible to guarantee you get the top deals.
She said: “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.
“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.”
Rebecca also suggests choosing package or bundle holidays since these tend to be more economical compared to booking flights and accommodation separately.
She added: “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.
“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.