Brits booking 2023 hols to soar this weekend but travel experts advise ‘caution’

TRAVEL experts have revealed why Brits should be cautious about booking a holiday on ‘Sunshine Saturday’.

The first Saturday of the year is a popular day for holidaymakers to book their annual trip away.

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According to Travel Weekly, research from the travel association ABTA has revealed that 61 per cent of Brits plan to flock abroad this year.

One third of those who are planning a foreign holiday want to book their trip earlier in an attempt to get a better deal.

Richard Singer, chief executive of Ice Travel Group, who are behind IceLolly and TravelSupermarket said bookings were “really strong”.

He added: “All the trends suggest it will definitely be a big booking weekend – whether the biggest for years remains to be seen, but certainly since the pandemic.”

Despite the abundance of deals on offer this January, travel experts have warned consumers away from rushing to book this weekend.

Which? Travel acting deputy editor Jo Rhodes said: “While many of us may be hoping to secure a good deal this weekend, it’s important to shop around and not feel rushed into making a decision. 

“Time-limited deals aren’t always everything they promise – in fact when Which? analysed these kinds of offers in the past, we found that in more than half of cases, they were the same price, or even cheaper, after the sale ended.”

Rhodes reminded travellers that the new year sales isn’t the only opportunity to grab a bargain getaway as airlines will often have deals on routes throughout the year.

Make sure to set up a price alert too, so you’re getting the best holiday deal.

Both Jo Rhodes and Abta chief executive Mark Tanzer have also encouraged holidaymakers to book their trips with a reputable travel provider that has a flexible booking policy.

They also recommended taking out a comprehensive travel insurance policy from the moment you’ve booked a trip.

Which? also revealed the five biggest mistakes made by holidaymakers looking to book a getaway in the January sales.

Meanwhile the co-founder of eShores, has shared his best-money saving tips to avoid losing out the next time you fly abroad.

Richard Gray, head of digital marketing at Insurance2Go, shared his best money-saving trips to avoid losing out next time you go on holiday.

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