What's happened
UK holiday bookings are rising sharply, with 200,000 more bookings expected in January. Destinations are shifting towards quieter, long-haul locations, with early bookings for summer 2026 and 2027. Traditional hotspots remain popular, and travel patterns are evolving amid increased confidence and planning.
What's behind the headline?
The current surge in UK travel bookings signals a notable shift in consumer behavior, with more people planning trips well in advance. This trend is driven by increased confidence and a desire for quality experiences, especially among families and multi-generational groups. The rise in searches for quieter destinations like Gozo and long-haul locations such as Sri Lanka indicates a move away from traditional hotspots. The industry’s focus on early bookings and longer planning horizons suggests a strategic shift, with travel providers capitalizing on this confidence. However, the emphasis on long-haul travel also reflects a willingness to travel further, possibly driven by the easing of travel restrictions and a desire for novel experiences. The forecasted increase of 200,000 bookings in January underscores a robust recovery, but the shift towards quieter, more distant destinations could reshape the UK travel landscape for years to come, emphasizing sustainability and unique experiences over mass tourism.
What the papers say
The Guardian reports a forecast of 200,000 additional holiday bookings in January, highlighting a shift towards quieter and long-haul destinations. Sarah Marsh notes that destinations like Malta and Sri Lanka are seeing increased interest, with searches for Gozo rising by 1,900%. Meanwhile, The Scotsman details how Barrhead Travel's record-breaking year reflects a broader trend of consumers prioritizing experiences and booking further ahead, with a focus on adventure and cruise holidays. EasyJet's announcement of new flights to Sharm-El-Sheikh from Edinburgh further exemplifies the trend of expanding long-haul options, catering to winter sun seekers. These sources collectively illustrate a resilient and evolving UK travel market, driven by confidence, strategic planning, and a desire for diverse experiences.
How we got here
The travel industry in the UK is experiencing a significant uptick in bookings, driven by consumer confidence and a desire for experiences. The Civil Aviation Authority forecasts increased holiday bookings, while destinations like Malta, Sri Lanka, and Tenerife see rising interest. Meanwhile, long-haul travel is gaining popularity as travelers seek further destinations, reflecting broader shifts in travel preferences.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Why Are UK Holiday Bookings Rising in 2026?
UK travel is experiencing a notable boom in 2026, with more people booking holidays than ever before. This surge is driven by increased confidence, new destinations, and a shift towards longer, more adventurous trips. Curious about where everyone is going and what's behind this trend? Below, we explore the key reasons for the rise in UK holiday bookings and what travelers are prioritizing this year.
More on these topics