As the summer holiday season approaches, many Britons are seeking ways to make their travel budgets stretch further. Despite a general increase in global flight prices, largely attributed to rising oil costs, travel experts suggest there are still significant savings to be made, particularly for European destinations.
Katy Maclure, head of community and content at Jack’s Flight Club, noted that while long-haul flights to places like the USA and Asia have seen notable price hikes, travel within Europe has remained more competitive. Budget carriers such as Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, and Jet2 continue to offer attractive fares to popular European hotspots including Spain, the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands, Portugal, and France. Recent deals have even included return flights to Greek islands like Rhodes and Crete for under £100 during pleasant shoulder seasons, alongside options to lesser-known gems like Thessaloniki.
For those looking to avoid peak summer crowds and inflated prices, Maclure advises exploring alternative destinations. She suggests Madeira, often dubbed the 'Hawaii of Europe', Slovenia, Albania, or various locations across the Balkans, such as Skopje in North Macedonia or Zadar in Croatia, as excellent value options. Flexibility is key, with budget airlines often releasing their lowest prices between three and six weeks before departure, and last-minute deals sometimes available from carriers like TUI to fill unsold seats.
Navigating additional costs, particularly baggage, is crucial for budget-conscious travellers. Maclure warns against simply accepting 'bundles' which can include unnecessary fees. Instead, she recommends adding essential extras like carry-on bags separately, as this is often cheaper. She also highlighted practical solutions like Primark’s £25 suitcase with removable wheels, designed to fit under most airline seats, helping passengers avoid additional baggage charges. For those without a fixed destination, considering closer-to-home options like a trip within the UK, to Jersey, or Ireland, can lead to substantial savings on flights.
For UK travellers planning a European getaway, many popular destinations require no visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises checking specific country pages for the latest travel warnings and entry requirements. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover unforeseen circumstances, including medical emergencies and trip cancellations. For example, a week's travel insurance to Spain could cost from around £15-£30, depending on cover level and age. Flights to destinations like Malaga or Faro can often be found for under £100 return outside of peak school holidays, while a week's accommodation in a mid-range hotel might cost between £300-£700, varying significantly by location and time of year.