Holiday tips tricks and hacks

THE January sales are about to land and now is an excellent time to bag yourself a bargain, whether it’s a summer holiday, homeware or that
set of golf clubs you’ve had your eye on for months.

But don’t just spend your cash willy-nilly. I’m going to let you in on
my top travel hack that will help you score big in the sales – bagging
yourself a free holiday, just by doing your ordinary shopping.

I can truthfully say, there is no catch. The more you spend, the
greater your getaway.

So, what’s the secret? Avios. But not in the way you know it.

You’ll likely have heard of the flight rewards system, whereby travel
spend is converted into points that can be redeemed against flights,
hotels, shopping and more.

The chances are, however, you’re not using the system properly. And by that, I mean reaping mega benefits every time you spend.

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I’m not just talking about flight spend. You can earn points every
time you catch the train to work, fill up your car with fuel, or do
your weekly grocery shop.

Say hello to the Avios portal. I believe it to be the BEST
points-benefits system out there for travellers – and I’m an avid
subscriber to rewards schemes (special nod to my Boots card and the
MyWaitrose account).

Right now, I am just shy of enough points to fly to New York City in
business class with British Airways (I have 80,000 to be exact).

A business class seat would cost me 88,000 points flying at an
off-peak time. Although I would still have to pay a £199.50 flat fee,
a nominal charge that covers taxes, carrier fees and a fixed Avios
amount.

That cost is small, though, when you consider the fact that the
absolute cheapest business class flight you can currently book to NYC
with British Airways is £1,832 – and that’s in the January sale,
meaning I would have saved a minimum of £1,600 by using points.

To put this into a wider perspective, I could also fly to Sydney in
Australia (55,000 points) or Tokyo and back again (38,500 points each
way) or even to Amsterdam and back again up to FOUR times (10,000
points each way).

Flat fees are tiny on short-haul flights too, with costs to
destinations like Amsterdam, Corfu and Gran Canaria capped at just £1
as opposed to the near £200 for my fancy NYC business class seat.

My high points score has nothing to do with me being a travel editor,
either. In fact, I earn very little from my adventures through work
and barely anything from flights alone.

Instead, it’s my regular, everyday spending that helps me earn big with Avios.

My commute to work, my trips to the BP for fuel and my incessant
fashion purchases on ASOS are what stacks those points up.

Better still, if you’re doing a big splurge in the January sales, you
can rake them in thick and fast.

So, how does it work and where can you earn?

Thousands of retailers have partnerships with the Avios store. You can
earn when you spend on hotels, homeware, sports, fashion, toys,
attractions and entertainment from Argos and TravelZoo to Boots and
Alton Towers.

The number of points you earn varies per retailer, for example when
you purchase from M&S Flowers & Hampers you will earn up to 24 Avios
per £1 spent, whereas booking a rail journey through Trainline will
earn you 1 Avios per £1 spent.

Many retailers have bonus offers for January, including Booking.com where you can bag 8 Avios per £1 until January 31, up from 4 Avios per £1 and Viator which has a 12 Avios per £1 offer until February 7, 2026.

My rule of thumb whenever I shop for something (big or small) is:
check whether the retailer I want to buy from is on the Avios shop,
and if not, can I buy the product I want from another retailer that
will earn me points?

To collect points on in-store purchases, you simply have to link  your
card – any card – to your account and spend on this card in
Avios-linked stores.

To make online purchases, you have to register your visit to the
retailers website by first going through the Avios shop website
(avios.com).

Simply log on, click on ‘collect avios’ and search for the retailer in the ‘search for brands’ box.

Once you’ve found the retailer, click on ‘shop now’ to register your visit and carry out your online shopping as you would normally. It really is that simple.

If, like me, you do a lot of shopping on your phone, I’d recommend
downloading the Avios app, which makes things a little easier and
keeps you logged in.

Your Avios is then redeemable with certain airlines, which includes
OneWorld Alliance partners like British Airways and Qatar Airways as
well as Aer Lingus and Vueling.

You can also book holiday packages, including flights and hotels, through British Airways Holidays.

So, how long does it take before you earn yourself enough for a free
flight or holiday? Well, that’s difficult to answer.

Last time I wrote about Avios was in April 2025 and back
then I had 57,000 points. Now I have 80,000 – so I’ve earned myself
23,000 points in 8 months, the equivalent of a return flight to
Brussels, Paris or Turin in Italy.

But I’m single and in the process of buying my first home, so my
spending is frugal.

If you use this hack to do your January sale shopping, however, you’ll
certainly be one step closer to bagging yourself a free getaway.

Here’s some useful tips for shopping through the Avios Shop….

Get yourself an Amex

First things first, get yourself an American Express (AMEX) credit
card, if you don’t already have one. Yes, you don’t technically need
one in order to collect points, but it’s an easy way to boost your
earnings. I have the free British Airways Amex.

Just make sure you pay it off in full every month. And if you don’t
trust yourself to do all of your spending on that card, start by
committing to a small and regular spend, like the weekly food shop.

If you’re successfully approved for a British Airways free Amex,
you’ll be given a bonus 5,000 Avios if you spend £2,000 in the first
three months of having the card.

It’s an incentive – and credit card companies are hoping that you forget to pay them back, so just make sure you have enough money in your current account to pay off the spend and don’t get caught out.

Link your accounts

Accounts that you use regularly like Uber are a great way of boosting
your points. You can link certain regular accounts you use to your
Avios account.

For example, I have my BPme Rewards and Uber account both linked to my Avios one, which means I don’t need to log on and register my visit as
explained above, with normal online shopping.

Everything is done automatically and I’m earning points without lifting a finger.

I book my train to work through Uber every time and it earns me a
steady and regular number of points every month.

Look for deals

Right now you can bag a bonus 50 per cent Avios with certain retailers.

There are so many deals at various times of the year. There’s
also special offers on certain deals such as The Wine Flyer, whereby
you earn a promises amount of points if you spend over a certain
figure on bottles.

Most recently, over the Christmas period, if you spent over £150 on wine through the Avios shop, you’d bag 5,000 bonus Avios on top of the usual 5 Avios per £1 spent,

But my rule is never to spend unless you really need it. The whole
point of a free holiday or flight is that you’re only spending on what
you would normally.

Sign up your parent/partner/pal

You’ll bag a bonus 500 Avios if you refer a friend – a simple referral
code does the trick.

You’ll also notice certain offers, such as a bonus 9,000 Avios if you order a second Amex linked to your account for a partner or child to spend on.

You’ll then be responsible for paying off their spend, however. But there’s nothing stopping you from ordering a second card and not passing it over to that person, though.

That way you’ll bag the bonus points without the panic. Just keep your
eyes peeled for those offers in your inbox.

For more on how to save money on your next travel trip, read more from one woman who flies every month and does 7 things to save herself cash.

 And here are our Sun-approved booking tips, plane hacks and travel products that can save you hundreds on holiday.

WE’VE had a corker of a year, travelling far and wide to hunt the best bargain getaways, newest spine-tingling attractions and hottest resorts to share with you, our wonderful readers.

From a behind-the-scenes look at the first new theme park to open in Orlando in 25 years, to discovering secret speakeasys on board the world’s largest cruise ship, here are The Sun Travel’s top trips from 2025.

EPIC UNIVERSE, FLORIDA

Lisa Minot, Head Of Travel

UNIVERSAL’S hugely anticipated third theme park opened this year and I was among the very first to get a sneak peek.

I can definitely say the reality surpassed my high expectations. The attention to detail, sheer scale and truly immersive nature of the five new “worlds” that make up the £7billion park are astonishing.

From the breathtaking recreation of 1920s Paris in the Wizarding World Of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, to the technicolour dreamscape of Super Nintendo World, there is something for every age and interest.

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Families with younger kids will love How To Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, a whimsical recreation of the movie ­franchise’s Viking village, complete with colourful longboats.

And thrill-seekers will enjoy Dark Universe with its Monsters Unchained and Curse Of The Werewolf attractions as well as the Stardust Racers dual-launch coaster in Celestial Park.

In 2025, visitors were restricted to one-day tickets to the new park, to manage capacity and give as many people the chance to visit as possible.

But from next year, Epic will be included on 14-day multi-park tickets, meaning you can pop in and out as many times as you like.

BAHAMAS CRUISE

Sophie Swietochowski, Assistant Travel Editor

IT has been my year for cruising, from sampling a knock-out cheese souffle on board Oceania’s new Allura to sipping frozen margaritas on the glossy sun deck of Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess.

However, none of these ships were as mindboggling as Star Of The Seas. Royal Caribbean’s newest colourful giant shares its title of “largest cruise ship in the world” with sister ship, Icon Of The Seas.

You need a whole week at sea to sample all the non-stop activities and to sink a beer or cocktail in every one of the 19 or so bars (save room for a punchy boulevardier from the coffee-themed Rye & Bean).

Much of what is on board has already been seen on Icon, including the thrill ride Crown’s Edge that sends passengers free-falling towards the ocean, their plummets saved by a harness as they dangle from the edge of the 16th deck.

What’s unique to Star, though, is the Lincoln Park Supper Club, an all-singing immersive dining experience that takes passengers back to the jazz boom of Chicago in the roaring Twenties.

It is costly for speciality dining but, my word, you’ll be well fed and watered. If you like martinis, you won’t regret booking this.

OSEA ISLAND, ESSEX

Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel (Digital)

PICTURE a private island with two outdoor pools, white clapboard houses and a huge sandy beach and you are more likely to be imagining somewhere exotic in the Caribbean than Essex.

But Osea is a private island linked to the mainland by a causeway you can only drive over for a few hours every day – which means you are marooned for most of the day and night.

Osea has several houses available to rent, from one-bedroom studios to 12-bedroom mansions, the largest featuring a recording studio that has been used by everyone from Stormzy to Rihanna.

It also has a tiny pub, a yoga studio, a bar and a huge event space where people can hold parties for up to 200 people.

I was there for a friend’s 50th and we spent a glorious 48 hours swimming in the sea, going on walks, eating, drinking and generally considering ourselves incredibly lucky to be in such a magical place.

You can only go to Osea if you are booked to stay in one of the properties but they are available to the public, with rooms from £60pp a night.

INDIA

Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor

INDIA has long been on my wish list to travel to, but as a young woman, I was always extremely wary.

However, Intrepid’s Women Expeditions meant I could tick off all of the top bucket list attractions while staying safe with a local female guide.

So I could visit the famous pink palace of Jaipur, and the stunning Taj Mahal in Agra.

But it also meant we got to experience this vast country like a local, meeting female rickshaw drivers and staying at the rustic Chandelao Garh – a 17th century former fort which is now a hotel with 20 rooms.

And, with Virgin Atlantic launching more flights to India in the New Year, it’ll be easier to get there than ever before.

SARDINIA

Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter

ITALY is full of stunning, historic cities and hidden gems, but one island destination, thought to be a top spot to visit in 2026, offers a serene escape in the Mediterranean Ocean.

Sardinia is closer to Africa than mainland Italy, so boasts warming breezes and the smell of olive trees in the air.

If I am heading to a hot country, I prefer to be somewhere where everything I could want is at my fingertips – and Hilton’s Conrad Chia Laguna Resort achieves this.

Many of its stylish, sprawling rooms have small private ­gardens looking out to Chia Beach, surrounded by cream-coloured limestone.

The Conrad also has relaxing pools ideal for a refreshing dip before stretching out on one of the sun loungers.

For a touch of indulgence, the spa has a circuit of saunas, hot tubs and steam rooms ideal for a rejuvenation session.

The plush Hilton resort is just an hour from Cagliari – the island’s vibrant capital – which boasts a rich ­history and is the ideal spot for a day trip.

Return flights with British Airways in January start from a bargain £35 per person.

FINLAND

Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter

I’VE always been a fan of a hot holiday and since I live in the UK, who can really blame me?

But after heading to ­Finland for a winter adventure, I now think chilly getaways could be the way forward.

After a variety of activities from hiking through a snowy blueberry farm in outer Jyväskylä to taking a dip in a frozen lake in the city of Tampere – after a hot sauna, of course – I came to appreciate and love the cold.

One of the most special nights was at Revontuli Lakeland Village, in Hankasalmi, Jyväskylä Region, where I was able to get all cosy and enjoy a beautiful snow-scape from the comfort of a pretty igloo.

EVERYONE deserves a luxury holiday, but few of us have the wallet to fund it.

Unless, that is, you opt for one particular country that takes just three hours to fly to from the UK, with year-round t-shirt temperatures and some VERY cheap all-inclusive hotels.

If you want to get away from the obvious – and the crowds – without sacrificing any indulgence, Tunisia hits the right note. 

This North African country welcomed a far smaller number of Brits in 2024 – 326,874 according to Bradt Travel Guide to Tunisia. 

And when you compare it to Spain, the top holiday destination for British tourists, welcoming 17.8 million of us in 2024, Tunisia has far fewer.

It may be a lesser-visited country, but it has big bargains for holidaymakers.

According to TravelSupermarket, Tunisia offers some of the very cheapest 5-star holidays on the market, averaging at £614pp.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive stay at the 5-star Hotel Tour Khalef costs as little as £553 with TUI, including return flights from London Gatwick.

In sunny Sousse, seven nights’ B&B at the 5-star Movenpick Resort & Marine Spa Sousse is available from just £233 pp with Thomas Cook. Price includes return flights from Southend.

If you settle for four stars, you can make it even cheaper. Seven nights’ B&B at the 4-star Iberostar Waves Averroes in Hammamet is bookable from £173 pp with Holiday Best, including return flights from London Luton.

Meanwhile, seven nights’ half board at the 5-star Iberostar Selection Kuriat Palace in Monastir is bookable from £239 pp with Loveholidays, including return flights from London Southend.

Here you have the wide sands of Monastir Beach and a wide range of activities on offer, from jet skiing to parasailing. 

If you’re looking for something off the beaten track, you could stretch your legs in the landscaped gardens of Falaise Park, set on the cliffside.

Or head 34 miles down the road to Moknine to see local artisans making traditional earthenware jars and jugs.

Despite its relatively small size (roughly the same as Greece), Tunisia packs a punch. 

With the blue of the Med meeting the heat of North Africa, it’s perfect for a sun-kissed break.

Its most famous beaches include Hammamet, Sousse, Monastir and Mahdia, which have long stretches of golden sand backed by palm trees and all-inclusive resorts.

There’s also Djerba, an island just off the south coast of Tunisia that is still relatively undiscovered by Brits.

It has a Mediterranean feel, with cobbled streets lined with white-washed buildings, blue window shutters and vibrant pink bougainvillea.

And despite its resemblance to trendy Greek islands, it’s also a great-value option, with a cup of strong coffee setting you back just 25p.

If you venture away from the coast, you’ll find a photographer’s dream – Pink Flamingo Lake.

Ignored by most tourists, it turns pink at sunset as flamingos feed in the shallows.

Back on the mainland, further north, the hilltop village of Sidi Bou Said would also be right at home on a Greek isle.

The town is picture postcard pretty with its blue-and-white painted houses and panoramic sea views.

Grab a mint tea on the terrace at Café des Nattes (£2) or queue at the doughnut stand for the freshly made Tunisian treats, which cost just 40p.

The capital, Tunis, is found on the northeastern coast.

It’s home to an ancient Medina, Roman Mosaics and plenty of bars and restaurants.

While most tourists wander the main souks of the Medina, the historic Jewish quarter, Hara is often overlooked. 

Visit the last surviving synagogue, explore the tailoring shops and try Jewish-Tunisian pastries made with dates and semolina. 

Other alternative takes on the capital include watching an independent film at the art-deco Cinema Le Rio, which is barely visited by tourists, or visiting Mornag, a major wine-producing region.

You can’t leave Tunisia without discovering more about its ancient civilisations. 

It’s a fascinating melting pot of Berber, Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, Arab and French influences – with nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The country has some of the best Roman sites outside Italy, including Dougga, a Roman city on a hilltop surrounded by olive groves.

There’s also El Djem Amphitheatre, the largest colosseum in North Africa, where Ridley Scott shot parts of his Oscar-winning movie Gladiator.

It is better preserved – and far less crowded – than its more famous cousin in Rome.

Nearby, the small theatre ruins and restored underground villas are even quieter, yet still beautifully conserved. 

Most tourists dip into Berber culture with a quick stop in Matmata’s cave houses, used as a filming location for Star Wars.

But you can take a deeper dive by trekking the Dahar Trails and exploring the hidden granary forts around Tataouine.

Tunisia’s long wellness tradition means you’re perfectly placed for a spot of pampering.

Try swapping lounging on the beach for some natural hot springs relaxation.

On the northern cliffs of Cap Bon, Korbous Hot Springs flow straight into the sea – join locals who come for therapeutic dips.

Benefits of soaking in the mineral-rich waters include improved circulation, pain and stress reduction and better skin health.

Prices correct at the time of publication.

LYING by the pool, white wine in hand, I wonder if the Seaside Palm Beach hotel might be the most beautiful resort I’ve ever stayed in.

In front of me, hundreds of wild palm trees — the tallest I’ve ever seen — sway in the afternoon breeze as canaries sing in the shade below.

The scene marked the start of a calm and relaxed weekend on the tranquil Spanish island of Gran Canaria, where temperatures can easily reach the 20s in the winter months.

Just a four-hour flight from the UK (costing less than £30 each way with easyJet from Luton), this trip was the ultimate warm oasis retreat . . . without the jet lag.

The 5-star hotel, situated on the south east coast in Maspalomas, is a haven of luxury.

The serene spa is home to a new sauna, cold plunge and hydrotherapy suite, where guests have the option to strip off completely for an authentic wellness experience.

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While my pal and I weren’t that brave, we did manage to plunge ourselves into the freezing ice bath (a welcome break from the October sunshine) before treating ourselves to a massage (99 euros for one dreamy hour) in the garden rooms, which have views of the botanical plants.

After a quick dip in the pool to wake ourselves up, we headed to the terrace for lunch of prawn caesar salad, calamari and homemade bread, with an ice-cold beer to wash it down.

Unlike most all-inclusive hotels I’ve stayed in, the Palm Beach offers guests the option to order lunch a la carte from the poolside restaurant as opposed to being stuck with just the buffet area, making it a much more intimate and luxurious experience.

Dinner was an equally impressive affair, with both a la carte and buffet options available on different nights.

Highlights included the Italian barbecue, with a homemade pasta station and a selection of fresh meat and fish grilled to order.

Outside of the hotel, local Italian restaurant il PosTo served us a delicious Neapolitan pizza for 18 euros, with a night cap of limoncello on the house.

The strip here is small but buzzing, with sunset beach bars lining the boardwalk, perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail with stunning views of the Atlantic ocean.

But the most impressive place we visited had to be the natural wonder of the Maspalomas sand dunes. This protected nature reserve is home to 400 hectares of desert-like dunes and lagoons.

A ten-minute walk from the hotel, it is the perfect place to explore in the early-evening golden hour when the heat of the day has died down.

For those wanting something a little more buzzy, the resort of Puerto Rico is a 20-minute drive south.

Here you’ll find shopping malls, discos and a wider selection of restaurants, as well as dozens of daily boat excursions to explore the local coastline.

For 40 euros, we hopped aboard Spirit of the Seas’ whale and dolphin watching tour — a 2.5-hour excursion with local experts who have worked on the sea here for 25 years.

We weren’t fortunate enough to see any marine mammals, but the company offers visitors a free voucher to go out again if there are no sightings — so it’s worth doing this excursion at the start of your trip to allow time to try again.

The next town along, Mogan, is also well worth a visit.

We paid a visit to the Hotel Cordial Mogan Playa, one of the grandest in the town, which offers day passes for 55 euros per adult and 27.50 euros for kids, including lunch.

The terracotta hotel blocks surround a garden spa featuring luxurious day beds, an outdoor heated hydrotherapy pool, hot tub and hot and cold foot spas.

After enjoying a fresh juice here, we tried the volcanic lava exfoliation treatment inside.

The 40-minute session started with a full-body exfoliation using black sand from the island’s northern beaches, followed by a massage using locally-sourced aromatic oils.

It was the perfect end to a three-day retreat — a break I will definitely want to repeat in the cold, dark winter months.

AFTER a long flight, the first thing you may want to do is take a nice hot shower to freshen up – but experts have warned against it.

Planes can be germy, with their enclosed spaces and recycled air conditioning.

Sitting in one spot for hours can leave you feeling pretty grimy once you land – and many look forward to jumping straight into the shower.

But experts have warned that taking a hot shower directly after a flight could be a bad idea.

This is because your skin becomes very dry onboard an aircraft, and having a hot shower can make matters even worse.

Dermatologist Cristina Psomadakis told CN Traveller exactly how planes dry out our skin.

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“Humidity levels really drop in planes and recirculated air can contribute to overall dryness of our skin”.

In fact, the humidity levels onboard can drop extremely low.

Airplane cabins often have a humidity of around 20 per ent compared to the 40-60 per cent we are used to on the ground.

This is because outside air at 30,000 feet contains almost no moisture.

Therefore when it’s pulled into the cabin and pressurised, it stays dry.

The air is then recirculated within the cabin – without any extra moisture being added back in.

This can lead to your skin feeling more dry than usual.

If you then jump straight into a hot shower, this can dry your skin out even more.

Not only do hot showers post-flight dry out your skin, they can also come with a host of other problems.

One of which is that they can increase your chance of getting acne, explains aesthetician Rhea Souhleris Grous to Apartment Therapy.

They said: “Because dryness triggers the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, hot water can worsen preexisting acne or cause a breakout”.

Hot water can break down natural oils and kill your skin’s good bacteria, which “play a major role in keeping moisture in – and the bad stuff out”.

To help beat the feeling of “airplane skin“, you can treat it onboard instead of relying on your post-flight shower.

To retain your skin’s moisture levels, experts recommend treating your skin both onboard and also ahead of time.

“To best take care of your skin on a plane, follow a hydrating skincare routine before and during the flight” said celebrity skincare expert Sarah Akram to Vogue.

“Avoid touching your face frequently, and reapply moisturiser and face mist periodically”.

“Also, avoid heavy makeup as it can contribute to dryness and clog pores.”

Your skincare routine could include packing a small bottle of nourishing moisturiser, a moisturising sheet mask, and drinking plenty of water onboard.

And if you like a salty snack from the trolley when flying, it’s even more important to keep hydrated.

“Top this off with reduced water intake and salty foods and it can lead to really dehydrated, parched skin” said dermatologist Cristina.

So next time you’re travelling by air, make sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after your flight.

The recommended amount of water for adults is two litres per day – but it is a good idea to increase your intake on days you’ll be flying.

Qantas customer service manager Travys Carinci flies on average 59,952 miles per month – and swears by drinking plenty of water.

“I start my day with a pint of water before my coffee and try to drink 2.5 litres of water every day” he told CN Traveller.

So if you are set on having a shower after your flight, turn the temperature down to lukewarm or cold – and you won’t strip as much moisture from your skin.

THE turkey leftovers are nearly finished and the Christmas tree might be looking past its best.

While we have still got all the fun of New Year’s Eve this week, our thoughts will no doubt be turning to something we can look forward to in 2026.

And, of course, that has to be a holiday.

Travel companies are going all out this year to encourage us to get planning and there are some great deals to be had in their New Year sales.

Lisa Minot takes a look at some of the bargains to be bagged before Big Ben’s chimes usher in 2026.

British Airways

BRITISH Airways and BA Holidays’ January sale offers savings on trips to some of its most-searched holiday destinations in 2025, including New York, Orlando, Dubai, the Maldives and Barbados.

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With 2026 marking the centenary of America’s Route 66 and the World Cup kicking off, there are return flights from £411 to Los Angeles, £427 to San Francisco and £439 to Miami.

Flights to Dubai start from £449 and Cancun from £482.

British Airways Holidays has seven-night packages to European destinations including Malaga, the Algarve, Malta and Majorca from £299pp.

And for a cheeky city break, there are deals in hot spots including Barcelona, Nice and Venice from £199pp.

There are also discounted holidays to the US, with Florida and Los Angeles from £599pp.

Deals include seven nights’ room-only at the 4H Pestana Alvor Beach Villas in Alvor, Portugal, from £299pp including Gatwick flights on dates in March and 23kg luggage.

Or seven nights’ room-only at 3.5H The STRAT Hotel, Casino and Tower in Las Vegas from £649pp including Heathrow flights on select dates in November.

To book, go to ba.com/sale.

Virgin Atlantic

THERE are savings of up to £120 per couple and £210 for a family of four on Virgin Holidays packages to the Caribbean, Orlando and Tampa with a low deposit of just £75pp.

Deals include 14 nights’ room-only at the Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando from £908pp including Virgin Atlantic flights from Heathrow on March 4, 2026.

There are also holidays to new route Cancun in Mexico, with seven nights’ B&B at The Fives Downtown Hotel from £1,086pp including Virgin flights from Heathrow on September 19, 2026.

In Virgin Atlantic’s sale there are return flights to New York from £373 on select dates in February 2026, as well as return fares to Phuket in Thailand from £648pp on selected departure dates in October 2026.

You can also get return flights to Cape Town, South Africa, from £729pp on selected dates in January and February 2026.

See virginatlantic.com.

TUI

TOUR giant TUI is touting its biggest sale ever with up to £500 off holidays, zero deposits with direct debits to spread the cost and thousands of free kids’ places in the school holidays.

There are flexible departures from more than 20 local airports and hundreds of free room upgrades.

The sale offers savings of ten per cent with the code SALE up to a maximum saving of £500 as long as you download the TUI app and create an account.

As well as land-based holidays, there is up to £300 off TUI River Cruises when you spend over £3,500, or £200 off if you spend over £2,500 on sailings departing between March 2026 and the end of October 2027.

The deal is valid on sailings of five nights or longer on Europe’s River Rhine, Douro or Danube and River Nile in Egypt.

Or you can head long- haul to the Caribbean with seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 5H Riu Negril in Jamaica.

It costs from £1,420pp including flights from Gatwick on June 16, 20kg hold luggage and transfers.

To book, go to tui.co.uk.

Jet 2

THE UK’s largest tour operator is sharing the love with £100 off ALL holidays booked in its sale, with a low deposit of just £25 needed to lock in a great deal.

The sale, running until January 12, also includes 20 per cent off all flight-only bookings on jet2.com, including on one-way flights.

All package holiday deals include 22kg luggage, 10kg hand luggage, under-seat bag, return transfers, plus ABTA and ATOL protection.

There are millions of free child places, as well as pay monthly plans to spread the cost.

Deals are available on more than 75 destinations across Europe, the Med, North Africa and the Canary Islands.

Offers include seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 3H Club Mac Alcudia Resort and Waterpark in Majorca from £579pp with flights from Leeds Bradford on April 18.

And seven nights’ B&B at the 3H Hotel La Barracuda, Costa del Sol, from £389pp including flights from Stansted on February 27.

See jet2holidays.com.

easyJet

THE Big Orange Sale from easyJet holidays is promising up to £400 off city breaks and beach escapes.

Holidaymakers can get £50 off a minimum spend of £500, £100 off an £800 minimum, £150 off a minimum of £1,500, £300 off a £3,000 minimum spend and £400 off a £4,000 spend with the code BIGSALE.

The deal is valid on 8,000 hand-picked hotels in more than 100 destinations in Europe and North Africa, from popular cities including Amsterdam and Prague, and beach spots from the Canaries to Cape Verde.

All holidays include flights and hotels, and beach packages also come with a 23kg luggage allowance and transfers.

Deals include four nights’ room-only at the 3H Espresso City Centre in Amsterdam from £227pp including flights from Southend on February 1.

And seven nights’ all-inclusive at the 4H Valeria Dar Atlas Resort in Marrakech from £435pp including flights from Liverpool on February 5, with 23kg luggage and transfers.

Book with a £60 deposit at easyjet.com/en/holidays.

IF you’re ready to look ahead to 2026 and start planning your family trips for spring and summer, you might be looking at big names like Butlin’s, Haven and Eurocamp.

My family of five has had some great breaks at all three, but prices can quickly add up – especially if you need to travel during the school holidays. So how can you bag a bargain and get away for less?

Here’s my top tips for shaving some money off your booking, so you’ll have more cash to splash when you’re on your break. 

Before you book

There’s a few tricks of the trade that work across all three brands, whether you are sucker for a staycay or fancy a foreign foray.

The first thing to do is to check out any discount schemes available to you, to to see what savings they offer. 

A Blue Light Card, which is available to teachers, emergency services and military personnel, offers money off holidays at Butlin’s, Haven and Eurocamp.

Costing £5 for two years, I usually save about £20 to £30 per break, which all adds up if you’re going on a few getaways over the course of the year. 

If you have roadside cover with the AA or are in a scheme like Kids Pass, they often have holiday discounts – including £50 off at Haven currently.

Cashback sites like Quidco or Topcashback are also a great way to claw back a bit of holiday cash.

By signing up to one of these websites, you get a percentage of your spend back by clicking through a link to book at Butlin’s, Haven or Eurocamp.

You can also sometimes get an added bonus on top, especially during sales periods like Black Friday or the January sales.

I’ve had a payout of almost £50 on a Butlin’s booking before, although it can take several months for cashback to be tracked and appear in your account, so this method isn’t instant as an upfront discount.

Supermarket loyalty schemes partner with some holiday chains and are a good way of making money you spend on your food shop work harder for you.

If you’ve saved a stash of Tesco Clubcard points, these can be converted into vouchers to use at either Eurocamp or Butlin’s and are worth double what they would be if spent in store.

So if you’ve got £10 of points, you’ll get a voucher worth £20 to spend.

Bear in mind that using Clubcard vouchers can tie you in to paying the list price for your holiday, so you do need to be a bit savvy and work out if a discount code would save you more than your Clubcard points are worth.

If you don’t shop at Tesco, you could collect Nectar points when you’re booking with Eurocamp and those points can then be spent on Eurostar or British Airways to travel abroad at a later date.

Price promises and spreading the cost

There’s lots to be said for booking early and spreading the cost of your holidays, whichever of the big names you’re using.

I’m currently paying a bit each month towards holidays at both Haven and Butlin’s in 2026, because both of them have a price promise that means you’ll get money back if your holiday costs less at a later date.

You do need to keep checking to see if you’ve bagged the best price, but if you’ve booked direct and find your holiday cheaper on either Haven or Butlin’s websites, they will refund you the difference.

I’ve seen some people enjoy payouts of hundreds of pounds using the price promise, so it is worth keeping an eye out in the run-up to your break.

If you’re booking Eurocamp, you can also pay in instalments.

If you book for 2026 before the end of January, you’ll put down a 15 per cent deposit when booking, then pay 10 per cent when you reach 150 days before your departure.

The remainder is then split in two payments at three months before your break and 56 days before departure.

Return guests can get a discount, particularly if you’re booking more than one break in the same season, so that’s worth a look before you book.

Saving big bucks at Butlin’s

There’s lots of ways to save at Butlin’s, so you just need to give yourself time to look at all the options and pick which one is right for you.

With three sites (at Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness) and lots of different types of accommodation, including room-only and self-catering, there can be a huge disparity in prices for the same week, depending on your destination.

I also find it’s worth checking out the last-minute deals at Butlin’s, as the prices do drop as you get closer to the departure date. 

But if you like to get a booking in your diary sooner rather than later, you can make the most of the repeat booking discount while on site or within 30 days of a recent stay at Butlin’s.

My Haven holiday hacks

Once you’ve booked a break, it does pay to keep checking the offers section of the website to see what comes up, particularly before the Haven holiday season starts up in March. 

There’s been great deals by bulk-buying activities or food and drink in recent years, so I’m looking forward to seeing what Haven introduces this year. 

My favourite from recent trips was a bulk-buy bundle where you got the cheapest session free if you spent £45 or more on activities in one go. 

That meant that if you booked three spaces on a £20 activity, you would actually only end up paying £40, as one of the spaces would be free. 

There have also been some fantastic food and drink offers, including a preloaded card that you could use in the bars and restaurants, which was topped up by an extra 10 per cent if you bought it before your break. 

I’ll be keeping an eye out in the next month or so to see if either of those offers return this year in time for my summer staycay.

Saving your euros at Eurocamp

We’ve had some lovely trips abroad to holiday parks in the Netherlands, Spain and France, but Eurocamp is just one way of booking these sites. 

It’s worth considering whether you can get a better deal by booking direct with the individual park or if you’d prefer to pay a bit extra for some of the perks that come with a Eurocamp booking.

This includes extras such as a holiday rep who speaks English or the ability to change your dates, destination or accommodation once you’ve booked.

We enjoyed an October half-term stay at Duinrell in the Netherlands a few years ago and only paid £80 for the week.

But we did discover that you had to pay extra to get into the swimming pool on site.

So it may have been better to book direct with Duinrell, as then entry to the waterpark would have been included and we could have chosen from tents, caravans and lodges for our accommodation. 

Another top tip is to check out the Sun £9.50 holidays abroad, which we made the most of when we had younger children and were still travelling a lot in term time.

While we booked through the Sun, the actual booking is then passed to a holiday provider like Eurocamp if you’re going abroad or Parkdean if you’re staying in the UK.

So you can sometimes get the same accommodation and facilities as you would for a Eurocamp holiday but for a fraction of the price, if you pick a break where you only pay £9.50 per person without any added extras. 

Bear in mind that you sometimes need to pay extra to add bed linen or towels to your booking abroad.

You can bring your own if you don’t want to pay, but that’s only really an option if you’re traveling by car and not by plane, when you’re trying to keep luggage to a minimum.

So whether you off to the summer sun abroad or you’re on a Brit bucket-and-spade break, now could be the perfect time to get your family getaway booked for 2026, whatever your budget.

EVER wondered the tips and tricks that cabin crew have picked up along the way as they travel the world for a living?

After all, no one knows the ins and outs of travelling smart better than cabin crew.

From reusable fashion choices to tiny gadgets that make life on the go easier, these are the 12 essentials that cabin crew always pack.

And the best part? Some of these essentials are under £1.

Shampoo bar

Here’s a handy tip to max out your liquid items allowance.

If you’re travelling with hand luggage only, swapping out liquids for solids can make all the difference.

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Experts told Bristol Live it’s worth switching to “solid products like shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, and deodorant sticks to maximise your liquid allowance.”

Not only do they save space and hassle at airport security, but they also last longer and are spill-proof — perfect for stress-free packing.

It’s also ideal for longer trips, since one bar can last for dozens of washes.

This shampoo bar from Foamie is only 50p.

Packing cubes

Take a look inside any crew member’s luggage and you’ll almost always find this one item: packing cubes.

Packing cubes can save you a ton of extra space in your suitcase.

And if you opt for compression packing cubes, some can save you up to 60% more room!

These lightweight organisers also keep your belongings neatly separated, so you can find what you need without tearing through your suitcase.

Many frequent flyers swear by them for maximising space and keeping outfits wrinkle-free.

They’re also a lifesaver if your bag gets opened at security; everything stays tidy and contained.

Once you’ve tried them, you’ll never go back to chaotic suitcase stuffing.

This set from Primark is particularly stylish, and at only £8 you’re paying £1 per cube.

Compression socks and sleeves

Carin Ryan, with 10 years as cabin crew and six million air miles under her belt, revealed that compression sleeves are the “biggest game changer” when flying.

“Think about the extra walking, unfamiliar sleeping accommodations, and cramped airplane seats all working together to make for miserable body aches and pains on your trip” she said in Travel and Leisure.

“Circulation is your best friend in helping alleviate everything that ails you”.

Compression sleeves improve your circulation by supporting the blood flow in your body.

“Compression sleeves are great as a preventative measure or to put on after a long day exploring.”

These funky compression socks from Koala Socks look just like regular socks, and are only £8.99.

Portable kettle

Have you ever heard of a portable kettle? Well, now you have!

Flight attendant Krystal (@krystal_lilian) shared the item as one of her must-haves in a TikTok post.

“Trip is cancelled without these” she writes.

A portable kettle might sound like a niche gadget, but once you’ve travelled with one, you’ll never look back.

They’re perfect for tea or coffee lovers, guaranteeing you can have a proper cuppa wherever you are.

Hotel kettles can be questionable at best, with some travellers even using them to wash their underwear.

They’re often compact and lightweight, as many models fold down to save space in your luggage and boil just enough water for one or two cups.

It’s also a great option for campers, road trippers, or anyone who likes the comfort of a hot drink before bed.

This collapsible option from Amazon is just £7.98.

Sewing kit

It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re packing, but a small sewing kit can be a real life saver.

easyJet cabin manager Dave Morris always makes sure to bring one.

“I always pack a travel sewing kit — you never know when a needle and thread will save the day,” he told Condé Nast Traveller.

“Safety pins are incredibly useful too. They can replace a broken zip pull, add extra security to a bag, or even help rethread the drawstring on a hoodie.”

Whether it’s a popped button before dinner or a torn hem in your favourite dress, bringing a sewing kit can spare you the stress of a wardrobe malfunction abroad.

Look for a compact version with needles, thread, scissors and pins – it takes up barely any space, but can fix just about anything in a pinch.

This one from Waitrose is only £4 and is a handy addition to your packing list.

Portable cutlery

Flight attendant Amy Cooper (@amycooperxoxo) listed a reusable knife and fork as part of her “crew essentials” in a post on TikTok.

Reusable travel cutlery might not sound like an essential, but it’s one of those items you’ll be thankful for time and again.

Whether you’re grabbing a supermarket salad during a layover, or picnicking on the beach – portable cutlery saves many a situation.

Most sets come neatly packed in a small case, so they won’t make a mess in your bag.

Plus they’re easy to rinse and reuse throughout your trip.

This £1.49 set from Wilko is the perfect size.

Multi-purpose scarf

Finnair cabin crew member Elina Poutanen suggests keeping it simple when packing to save yourself from overpacking.

Especially as many people now travel with cabin luggage only, it’s important to make sure that you choose the clothes you pack carefully.

“Clothes with multiple purposes are the best because you can wear them many times and for many occasions” she says.

Elina recommends “A big scarf that can be worn as a beach cover-up during the day and in the evening when it gets chilly”.

This £3.99 option from Amazon wouldn’t look amiss as a beach skirt or stylish scarf.

Travel extension lead

A travel extension lead is one of those unglamorous but genius essentials that makes travels so much easier.

Cabin crew member Heather (@onlyheather) shared this to be one her essentials with followers on TikTok.

With hotel rooms often short on plug sockets (or worse tucked behind furniture) having your own mini extension lead is a life-saver.

Being able to charge all your devices in one spot is a luxury you’ll thank yourself for later.

Many travel-friendly versions come with multiple USB ports and universal adapters, so you can power your phone, laptop, and camera all at once.

It’s especially handy for long-haul travellers juggling several gadgets or sharing a room with others.

At £3.99 from Argos, this small addition to your packing list will save you a lot of hassle.

Neck pillow

Though it seems like an obvious choice, far too many people still travel without a neck pillow.

“Neck pillows are great for long flights or any flights where you’re stuck in a middle seat” says ex-flight attendant Arina Bloom in Business Insider.

“Once you use one, you’ll never go back. It’s so much more comfortable to fall asleep — plus it saves you from accidentally waking up on your neighbor’s shoulder”.

Just make sure to buy one ahead of time to avoid expensive airport options.

This one from Flying Tiger is made of memory foam and has its own clip to attach to your luggage – and it’s only a tenner.

Mini lint roller

Virgin Atlantic crew member Sophie Firth (@sophie.firth) shared a peek inside her cabin crew topper bag with her followers on TikTok.

Sophie packs a mini lint roller, to make sure her uniform is looking spic and span at all times.

There’s nothing worse than having dust and hairs cling to your clothing, especially when needing to remain polished and presentable as possible.

A mini travel-size lint roller can be purchased for £2.89 on Amazon.

Sophie also packs a mini travel hot water bottle as she explains she is “always cold, especially in crew rest”.

Electrolytes sachet

easyJet cabin crew member Sasha Anthony (@sailwithsasha) swears by electrolyte sachets when flying.

Airplane cabins are notoriously dehydrating and the low humidity levels can leave you feeling tired, sluggish, and jet-lagged after you land.

Mixing an electrolyte sachet into your water mid-flight helps to replenish essential minerals, and keep you hydrated through the dry air and caffeine.

It’s a simple trick that keeps your energy up and your skin feeling fresher when you land.

Pop a few sachets in your bag and you’ll arrive feeling far more human – especially after a long-haul flight.

These sachets from ViDrate are 8 for £5, plenty to get you through multiple flights.

Perfume decanter

Ever wished you could bring your favourite perfume away with you, but you simply have no space for it in your luggage?

A perfume decanter is the ultimate hack for bringing your favourite scent, without lugging around a heavy bottle.

Flight attendant Nicola Findlay (@nicolafindlay_) even shared it in her “must have items” on TikTok.

“We still want to smell sweet without bringing the whole bottle” she says.

These pocket-sized bottles let you transfer a small amount of perfume into a sleek, travel-friendly container that fits easily in your hand luggage.

They help you stay within the 100ml liquid limit whilst still smelling your best.

They’re also perfect to pop in your handbag for refreshing after a long flight or before dinner.

This option from Temu is only 93p, and is easy to attach to your perfume bottle to fill up.

WHAT could be better than spending the day sightseeing in a new city, only to come home to your comfy bed that very same evening?

Extreme day-tripping blew up as a trend in 2025, and if you’ve never given it a go – now’s the time.

Day trips abroad from the UK have never been more doable, with more and more European routes becoming available with budget airlines.

And with flights starting from £14.99 one-way, it can cost less to hop over to another country for the day than it can to go out for dinner.

Here’s our Sun Travel team’s top picks for 24-hour day trips, and the best things to see and do there to make the most of your time.

Paris

If there’s ever an opportunity to travel by Eurostar, I’ll take it.

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That’s partly why Paris is one of my favourite day trips.

If you live within an hour’s train ride of London, the Eurostar is certainly the most convenient way of travel.

Plus, there’s something rather glamorous about starting your day sipping tea in the calm of a train carriage before arriving into the beating heart of Paris just 2.5 hours later.

I never tire of the bucket-list landmarks, but there’s one I’d recommend above the others – and that’s the Basilica du Sacré-Cœur, perched on the city’s highest hill, in Montmartre .

If you’re tight for cash, don’t worry about going inside. It’s worth venturing here just for the free view, which I’d argue beats the one from the top of the Eiffel Tower.

You can catch a funicular to the hill’s peak, or challenge yourself to take the stairs.

Just avoid the main set and look for the ones on the far left, to avoid the crowds and street sellers trying to flog overpriced souvenirs.

Once you’ve taken a snap, the rest of this typically French district is well worth exploring.

Dart down one of the many narrow alleyways. The further you wander from the church, the more local it gets – think proper bistros, and cafes selling good, strong coffee.

– Assistant Travel Editor, Sophie Swietochowski

Milan

Just two hours from the UK and one that nearly always has the cheap £14.99 Ryanair flights, Milan is an easy one to do for the day. 

However, remember that Ryanair flies to Milan Malepenisa, not Milane Linate (which takes around 50 minutes to the city centre rather than 10 minutes.).

Instead, hop on the 6:45am easyJet flight from London Gatwick that gets you in at around 9:45am, just in time for brunch.

Get a pastry to go from Marchesi 1824, one of the city’s oldest bakeries for a classic breakfast of a cappuccino and croissant.

Take it with you before a shopping spree at Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the historic shopping centre now home to beautiful designer boutiques.

While Milan is famous for its saffron risotto, a stop at a pizza bar is a must.

I recommend Pizza AM where you even get free mini starters and prosecco.

Squeeze in a quick visit of the famous Duomo di Milano as well as the Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to the famous Last Supper artwork, and it will be time to head back to the airport.

Although if you have time, you could always squeeze in a quick TikTok-famous Negroni Sbagliato at Bar Basso.

One of the latest flights you can get back is with ITA Airways, so you can leave at 9pm and be back in the UK just before 10pm.

– Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey

Copenhagen

My recent trip to the Danish capital city of Copenhagen was a dream with such short flights and a vibrant city – it got me thinking, you could definitely head there and back in a day if you wanted to.

Ryanair offers morning flights leaving the UK at 7.15am on Saturday mornings from London Stansted meaning you get into the city at 10.10am. 

From the airport to the city is a short drive, so jump into a taxi and head straight to the city.

Head to Strøget for a bite to eat at Holms Bakery, and then gander around the shops.

From there you’ll be able to see the pretty canals and the huge palaces, or head to Tivoli Gardens to have a go on some of the rides.

You can’t leave without seeing Nyhavn. It’s the district famous for having huge colourful buildings – and it’s on the back of most Copenhagen postcards.

The houses sit right on the waterfront where there are plenty of bars which is the perfect spot to stop for a cocktail before heading back to the airport.

You can catch a flight with Ryanair at 8.40pm and land back in the UK at 9.35pm.

– Travel Reporter, Alice Penwill

Dublin

Hopping over to Dublin for a day has got to be as easy as it gets when it comes to booking a cheeky 24-hour day trip.

Flights are super cheap and frequent with Ryanair, as little as £15 one-way from Stansted or £16 from Manchester.

The 1hr25 minute flight from London goes so fast that cabin crew barely have time to push the trolley down the aisle before you’ve landed.

Once you’re there and ready to begin sightseeing, the city is bursting with things to see and do – a lot of which are free.

Stroll through Trinity College to admire its historic campus, which is also home to the Book of Kells – the famous 9th century manuscript.

If you’ve never done Temple Bar, you’ve got to make a pit stop to grab a pint in the iconic Dublin pub (just one though – drinks are much cheaper if you walk a few blocks away!)

And to get away from the touristy spots, hop on a DART train to Dublin’s seaside spots, like Howth or Sandycove, for beautiful rugged coastlines with breath-taking walks and popular swimming spots.

But my absolute favourite thing to do in Dublin is grab a cheap bag of oats from Dunnes, and head to Stephen’s Green to feed the friendly swans and ducks that roam the winding river.

And if you’re on the first flight out and last one back of the day – there’s no reason why you couldn’t tick all of these off in one go!

– Travel Writer, Jenna Stevens

Wimereux

I first travelled to Wimereux, a seaside town 30 minutes drive from Calais on the Opal Coast when I was 20 years old with my mum. 

She travels on the Channel Tunnel to France every year to stock up on her favourite items from French supermarkets, then heads over to Wimereux for some beach time and a delicious dinner. 

Two decades on, it is still one of my favourite places to visit in France. 

The promenade along the seafront is quaint and distinctly French – we sun ourselves and have a glass of wine before hopping back in the car home.

– Head of Travel – Digital, Caroline McGuire

Tirana

The capital of Albania, Tirana, is a destination to watch.

With super cheap flights and everything being affordable once you get there, it is a great option for an extreme day trip.

It takes just under three hours to get there, so I opted to get an early morning flight to maximise my day in the city.

Once you arrive at the airport, there are coaches outside that cost a couple of quid and take you direct to the city, which is about half an hour away. 

After hopping off of the coach, you will be in the middle of the city and all the top things to see and do are within walking distance. 

In Skanderbeg Square, the main plaza of the city, you are able to see some fascinating architecture.

Tirana has a real mix of buildings, including mosques, Soviet buildings and traditional villas.

– Travel Reporter, Cyann Fielding

WITH so much choice out there, booking an affordable holiday can feel like a mammoth task.

When is the cheapest time to fly? How do you avoid paying for hand luggage? Is there a way to eat on the cheap? So we’ve spoken to our team of travel experts, with thousands of miles racked up between them each year, for their top tips.

We’ve covered it all, from flights and hotels, to cruise trips and package holidays.

Here are the 50 best tips, according to the Sun’s award-winning Travel team.

Booking your holidays

1. Book as a package instead of separately

While it may be tempting to go for those budget flights and cheap hotel, it might still end up costing you more than a package holiday.

Not only can they often offer insane bargains – Loveholidays regularly have seven-night stays in Europe for under £150 each – but many include free transfers and luggage too.

2. Fly midweek

With so many options for flights these days, looking beyond the traditional weekend to weekend departures will often garner savings.

Instead of heading off on a Friday or Saturday, compare with the pricing for a mid-week flight – very often you’ll spend less on Tuesday or Wednesday departures.

3. Check holiday price matchers

A number of the big travel companies offer holiday price matching, like EasyJet Holidays, Thomas Cook and On The Beach.

For example, EasyJet Holidays guarantee to beat the price if you find the same holiday cheaper after booking with them.

Check the terms and conditions before booking, to make sure you understand exactly when they’ll shell out.

4. Turn on flight price checkers

Setting alerts is the key to this one.

If you’ve got a dream destination where the price of flights is way too high, then make sure to turn on notifications for price change on the likes of Google Flights or Skyscanner.

You can set it up so that you’ll get a message when the fares come down, and you can race to book them. 

5. Book your flights in incognito mode

Have you ever been browsing flights, gone back a few days later to look again – and the price has skyrocketed?

If so, then next time you open your browser to book your flights, you may want to hit ctrl+shift+N.

Browsing in incognito mode means that your browser can’t keep track of your cookies, so you’ll avoid those pesky last-minute price raises when you’re desperate to book.

6. Sign up for newsletters

Newsletter sign ups to companies like Which? VoucherCloud are great for saving money, as they flag a range of current restaurants and attractions offering money off.

You can also sign up to chains to get vouchers – Prezzo, Zizzi’s,and Pizza Express all offer deals to subscribers, like a free drink or money off the bill.

The app EatClub (free to download) is also excellent for getting money off the bill – restaurants and bars offer discounts to members for early bird and late slots, to get people through the door.

7. Book attractions online

It’s no secret that attractions cost more on the door. For example, if booked in advance, a day pass for Alton Towers is from £34pp, but the walk-up price is double that.

In some cases, the further in advance, the bigger the savings, so it pays to be organised.

Hotel and accommodation tips

8. Email your hotels for upgrades…

If you don’t ask, you don’t get! It’s always worth emailing your hotel to ask if they have a specific room upgrade.

Or even email the hotel saying you have found a deal online, and they will often either match it or throw in some freebies.

9 …Or remind them if its a special occasion

Don’t forget to tell hotels if it is a birthday or anniversary too, as they often provide small welcome gifts if they are made aware in advance.

Just don’t lie, as you don’t want to risk being caught out.

10. Skip the breakfast

If they’re not already included in the price, breakfast buffets are rarely worth shelling out on.

Instead, pack some cereal bars – they’re often just enough to carry you through until lunch and save you money on added breakfast charges.

11. Find new hotels for soft launches

If you want a luxury hotel stay without the price, look for ones that have just opened as they often offer discounts during their “soft launch”.

Keep an eye on lists of new hotels opening on sites like Hotel News Resource, and be proactive by contacting the reservation desk to ask for an introductory offer.

While this can mean they are not fully operational – for example, the spa may not be open yet – you can still enjoy a five-star on a budget.

12. Work for your board

Sign up to a site like Trusted Housesitters and look after someone’s pet in exchange for free board at their home while they are away.

The website lets people find house and pet sitters for when they are away from home and has listings all over the world, from the Caribbean to Costa Rica, New York and London.

13. Try a hostel with private rooms

Hostels are one of the best and easiest ways to feel like you are clawing your money back.

And don’t worry – these days, they aren’t just for backpackers, with brands like Generator Hostels offering a very boutique feel in city centre locations.

Many have private rooms, which cost far less than a hotel as you may have to share a bathroom.

14. Consider house swapping

If your home is fit to be seen by strangers, and you’re not too OCD about your possessions, then consider listing your property on a house-swapping site.

Website HomeExchange, where you swap homes with someone else around the world, has seen a boom in UK properties signing up – members have to verify their identity and address and build profiles including reviews for security purposes.

You could find yourself in Paris, New York or even Hawaii without having to splash the cash on a hotel or Airbnb.

15. Check the hotel freebies…

Depending on where you are staying, there will usually be some freebies for you to use – and not just shampoo and conditioner.

Some will go even further with a toothbrush and toothpaste, razor, shower cap, earbuds, makeup remover pads and so on.

To find out what is in your room, check the website of where you are staying and look at the reviews, by searching for key words like ‘razor’ or ‘shower cap’.

Quite often reception will also have a selection of items that they will provide if you have forgotten something, too.

16. Check for free hotel perks

Before you choose you hotel, check if they have any additional perks.

For example, some will operate a free shuttle service to popular tourist destinations, while others might hold a daily cheese and wine service in the later afternoon that is complimentary for guests.

17. Sign up for hotel loyalty programmes

With some hotel chains like Ibis and Hilton, if you have a member account – which is usually free to set up – you will get exclusive offers and discounts.

For example, I recently stayed at Ibis London Luton Hotel and because I am a member, I saved around £10 on my booking.

18. Find hotels with free waterpark entry

Next time you are looking for that all-singing, all-dancing hotel resort abroad, try and find one that includes waterpark entry.

This can quickly rack up if you are paying for entry for all of you, and lots of parks have deals with nearby attractions.

When on holiday

19. Avoid overpriced essentials abroad

Don’t skimp out on packing important toiletries (for example, shampoo and ESPECIALLY suncream), as resort towns know you’ll need them – so often sell the basics for a very ridiculously high prices.

20. Find free tours

Once you’ve chosen your destination, it’s always worth searching online for free tours.

Check sites like Freetour, GuruWalk, Walkative as well as Londonwithalocal.

While there is no upfront cost or booking fee, you are expected to tip your guide at the end based on your satisfaction with the tour.

21. Visit museums on first Sundays of the month…

Most European cities have free entry to museums and art galleries on certain days.

This is commonly on the first Sunday of every month, so time your weekend break then to get some free tickets.

22. … Or book closing-hour tickets

Other attractions may offer free tickets an hour before they close, although these are often booked up quickly.

For example, in Seville, both the Royal Alcazar Palace and Seville Cathedral have limited free tickets for the final hours.

23. Secret boarding pass discounts

Never throw away your boarding pass as it can get you discounts on the ground.

Emirates and Etihad Airways passengers can get discounts at shopping centres and theme parks in Dubai and Saudi Arabia, respectively, while Turkish Airlines has discounts at hotels.

24. Make the most of city passes

If you’re looking to do a lot of sightseeing on a city break, it’s always worth checking out any city passes on offer.

For a set fee, you’ll get entry to all the main attractions, plus many also offer free or subsidised travel and discounts on food and drink.

In some cases you might even get skip-the-line access, which will save time during city exploration too.

In London, the London Pass (from £79) offers up to 50 per cent off attractions, while in Lisbon, the Lisboa Card (from £27) lets you queue jump as your card is actually your ticket.

25. Use food waste apps

We swear by Too Good To Go which is an app that sells leftover food from restaurants and shops, ranging from £3 to £10.

Once our Assistant Travel Editor Sophie was in New York with her sister, and she spent just a few bucks on a bag of food before her flight using the app, with pasta, salad, potatoes, couscous and more from a local deli.

26. Grab an eSIM to avoid roaming charges

There’s nothing worse than using your phone abroad, only to be surprised by a massive phone bill when you arrive home.

Rather than paying for an expensive monthly add-on that you’re not even sure will cover all of your travels, you’re often better of downloading an eSim from an app such as Airalo for the specific country you’re visiting.

27. Always ask for tap water (if it’s safe)

Perhaps the most simple one out there is just to ask for tap water in restaurants.

If you ask for still water, you might end up paying for bottled water.

Just make sure it is safe to drink the tap water of the country you are in.

28. Head to designer dupe markets

If you’re not too fussed about having real designer bags or sunglasses, then you can probably find some great dupes on holiday.

Fair enough, they won’t be of the same high quality – but they also won’t be the same high price either.

Some of the best-known are Laleli Market in Istanbul, Pratunam Market in Bangkok and Costa Adeje Market in Tenerife.

29. Find a local carpool

BlaBlaCar is a carpooling platform that helps travellers across Europe, by connecting their with car drivers.

Drivers offer space in their car in exchange for petrol money – so you’re saving the environment and your cash.

All things money

30. Check the discount sites

Discount sites aren’t just for students… There are loads out there to use with real discounts, not fake voucher codes.

For example, students can use Student Beans or Unidays, but so can graduates. If you work for the NHS, you can use the Blue Light discount. And many employers offer discount sites as a work perk.

These sites often have hundreds of companies giving them discounts, from transport to accommodation and from restaurants to things to do – it is always worth checking them out before booking something.

31. Use cashback sites

Cashback websites are an easy way to get some free money on a holiday you are booking.

Some examples include 3.75 per cent cashback on an easyJet holidays (working out to £11 back on a £300 trip) or hotels.com, which gives you seven per cent back (£14 if you book a hotel for two nights at £200).

32. Buy your travel money before you go

Never, ever buy your travel money at the airport – the fees charged and rates you’ll get are always going to be the worst.

Compare foreign exchange providers before you go and have the money either delivered to your house or pick it up and you could make significant savings.

33. Pay in local currency

When the cash machine asks if you want to pay in local currency or pounds, you always go with local.

This is because the conversion rate is always better than your banks’, so it will save you money.

34. Find no foreign fee cards

Don’t fall victim to foreign card fees, with some credit cards charging as much as £2.99 per transaction.

Many like Starling, Revolut and Monzo all have no fees for using cards abroad, as well as banks like First Direct.

Airport hacks

35. Ditch the pricey plane food

For shorter flights, it makes no sense to shell out on expensive sarnies and snacks.

For both kids and grown-ups, pack a Pot Noodle and ask the flight attendant for hot water – they are nearly always happy to oblige if you ask nicely.

36. Try a different airport

You can often make significant savings by choosing to fly from an airport a little further from your home.

This is particularly the case for those living in the north of the country, who can take advantage of the fact that fares from Scottish airports will be less if you travel in the summer, when Scottish school holidays are much earlier than English ones.

37. Check in before you fly

It sounds super simple, but make sure to check in to your flight before you get to the airport, especially if you are flying with a budget airline.

Wizz Air, for example, will only let you check in 24 hours before your flight, but check in then closes three hours before your flight.

If you check in at the airport, you might pay a premium of over £30. 

38. Avoid paying for luggage at the airport…

One of the biggest costs to your holiday can be buying your luggage at the airport, which can be as much as £80 each way.

Make sure to always check the airline rules, and to weigh your bag before heading there so you aren’t caught out.

39. …Or never check it in at all

If you are a light packer, try to skip the checked luggage entirely.

Most weekend breaks can easily fit into an underseat bag, while a week-long trip can easily be a carry on.

Compression packing cubes are excellent for saving space in a bag, and try to bring items of clothing that will work for multiple activities.

For instance, our Deputy Travel Editor swears by these sandals that only cost £21, and are the only pair of shoes that she needs to take on holiday.

40. Make use of the duty free bag

Let’s just say that sometimes when I grab a bottle of water in a shopping bag post-security at the airport, it’s not because I’m thirsty.

There’s often plenty of extra room in that duty-free bag…that big jacket you’ve been sweating in? It may just find a nice home in a duty-free plastic bag.

41. Walk a block to get cheaper taxis

If you walk straight out of the airport to the taxi rank, just know that you’ll likely be paying some of the highest prices for a transfer possible.

Next time, walk a few blocks away from the airport with your luggage, download the country’s local taxi app, and call yourself a cab from a bit further away.

Car hire and train travel tricks

42. Bring your own carseat

Hiring a basic booster seat for your child can be astronomical at car hire companies on holiday, with some asking for up for £10 a day.

Instead, buy an inflatable one that can fit in your hand luggage, or the clever booster seat backpacks that are now on the market.

You’ll make your money back in just one trip.

43. Book your car hire excess waiver separately

You can buy excess car hire polices in the UK at much cheaper prices.

Should you have an accident, it protects the no claims bonus and means you aren’t faced with a huge bill.

They are accepted by every reputable car hire company; if they try to convince you that you can’t use it and you have to buy theirs, that is wrong. 

There are some very high-pressure selling techniques around so be strong.

It will save you a lot in the long run and annual policies mean if you are going to be hiring cars abroad more than once you’re saving even more.

44. Wait two weeks before your arrive to book cars

Research from TravelSupermarket found that the sweet spot for booking cheap car hire at around two weeks before your holiday.

The worst time to book your car hire is a full year in advance, with average daily prices reaching £93.12 – an extortionate rate compared with the average of £46.75 per day when booked at around the two-week mark.

45. Eurostar snap

Did you know you can get up to half price Eurostar tickets outside of sale season?

Eurostar Snap lets you book last minute tickets just 14 days before travel, where you choose between morning or afternoon slots.

Then 48 hours before, you are told your exact time – and save up to 50 per cent on your ticket.

46. Bid for better train seats

Seatfrog is a useful app that partners with train companies to offer upgrades to first class by auction.

So let’s say you bought a standard class ticket, but decided you want to upgrade, you can bid for a first class seat on your journey and usually secure it for less than a first class ticket in the first place.

You can also swap train times on Seatfrog, and find discounted tickets. 

47. Find the right railcard

There are loads of different railcards out there and you might be eligible.

For example, there are 16-17 saver cards, which get 16 and 17-year-olds 50 per cent off travel, while railcards for 18-25-year-olds and 26-30-year-olds can get a Railcard save up to a third on travel prices, along with a senior railcard does the same.

There is also a Family and Friends Railcard and a clever Two Together Railcard, which allows two adults traveling together to get a third off their joint rail fares.

There are a number of regional options to look out for, too.  

Cruise hacks

48. Don’t book cruise excursions through the ship

You’ll find them for much better prices if you book them independently – check out local sites for the city you’re stopping at, or visit shoreexcusionsgroup.com.

49. Get cheaper spa treatments on cruise port days

Not all cruisers know that spa treatments onboard are cheaper on port days.

This is because most people are off the ship exploring, whereas during an at sea day, there will be higher demand.

For example, when I went on a Virgin Voyage, some spa treatments cost up to £60 less on port days compared to at sea days.

50. Go for the drinks packages

If you are planning on a boozy cruise holiday, a drinks package could save you a hell of a lot.

For example, Princess Cruises offer a drinks package for $64.99 (£50) which includes unlimited wine, cocktails and soft drinks – so you only need a few coffees and cocktails before you have made your money back.

WHILE the idea of white sand beaches and hot weather can be tempting, they can often come with a downside – the jet lag.

But long haul doesn’t have to be stressful, nor expensive.

In fact, you can book a luxurious long haul holiday for much less than you think with these underrated destinations.

We’ve rounded up our top 5 long haul destinations to book for 2026 – with everything from penguin beaches to lavish beach clubs.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

If you’re dreaming of sugar-white beaches, turquoise waters and palm tree-lined sunsets, Zanzibar is your new best friend.

The region in Tanzania makes for a heavenly beach holiday – without the price tag of the Maldives or Mauritius.

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You can laze on luxurious beaches with glass waters like Kendwa or Bwejuu Beach, explore the historic Stone Town, or even meet giant tortoises on Changuu Island.

Direct flights from the UK mean that you can swap British cold drizzly weather for island paradise in under ten hours.

Plus, Zanzibar is only three hours ahead of UK time – meaning that you can enjoy your time away without wasting your days catching up on sleep.

In fact, this tropical archipelago in the Indian Ocean makes for one of the most affordable luxury-style holidays.

TUI have some affordable all-inclusive options, with a 7-night stay at the 5-star LUX* Marijani Zanzibar from £1,319 per person.

It’s the kind of exotic escape you’ll want to experience yourself before everyone else catches on.

Cape Verde

If you want long-haul vibes without a hugely long-haul flight, Cape Verde nails it.

It’s a six hour flight from the UK to Cape Verde, and the islands are only one hour ahead of GMT.

Cape Verde is known for its sweeping golden sands and dramatic volcano backdrops.

Days melt away with ocean dips, rum cocktails and beachside barbeques.

And if you’re into something more energetic, there’s plenty of kite surfing, scuba diving and sandboarding spots dotted around the islands.

Spend your days dolphin-spotting, snorkelling, or exploring the Blue Eye of Buracona for neon blue water that doesn’t look real.

Sal is the go-to spot for beach bars, swimming bays and watersports galore.

Whilst laid back Boa Vista and Maio are where you’ll find chilled all-inclusive resorts.

Long-haul flights to Cape Verde are pretty affordable – with easyJet offering return flights from £130.

Doha, Qatar

If you’re looking for 5-star style hospitality without blowing your holiday budget, Qatar is the ultimate choice.

Just over 6 hours from the UK, this Middle Eastern hotspot has skyscraper cityscapes and glam hotels at a price that’ll make you do a double-take.

There’s sleek beach clubs like Bagatelle and Doha Sands if you want to live out your best life on Instagram.

Or there’s desert safaris, quad-biking and camel rides from £17 on sites like Get Your Guide.

Mornings here are best spent wandering the souks for traditional souvenirs, and evenings are for dining under the glittering skyline.

But the best part are the luxury-feel hotels that come with signature Qatari hospitality, for prices that won’t dent your bank account like in Dubai.

Loveholidays stay at Hampton By Hilton Doha Old Town for £499 per person for 7 nights – with flights, hotel and breakfast included.

Cape Town, South Africa

Picture an affordable long-haul getaway and Cape Town might not immediately come to mind – but this iconic city will seriously surprise you.

Once you land from the 11 hour flight, Cape Town is only 2 hours ahead of time from the UK.

And the South African city is packed with affordable things to do.

You can pack your days with activities like hiking Table Mountain or penguin-spotting at Boulders Beach.

Plus the Malay neighbourhood Bo-Kaap is well worth a visit with its cobbled streets, colourful houses and mountain backdrop.

At dinner time, take your pick from fine-dining Waterfront restaurants that won’t break the bank, and sip on world-class wine for the price of a latte in London.

Lastminute.com offer a 6-night stay at Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel in Cape Town from £925pp inc. flights.

Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Egypt‘s Sharm El Sheikh is one of the greats when it comes to affordable long-haul all inclusives.

Sharm El Sheikh is only 2 hours ahead of GMT, meaning that you’ll get the far-flung holiday feel without the jet lag.

Just over five hours from the UK, this Red Sea resort city offers year-round sun, warm waters and impressive hotels.

Think palm-lined pools, private beaches and spa days that feel 5-star for the price of a short-haul stay.

And if you can drag yourself away from your poolside lounger, there’s reef snorkelling, lantern-lit markets and plenty of boat rides to enjoy.

Naama Bay is lively with bars and waterfront buzz, whilst Habada and Sharks Bay offer calmer stays with powder-soft sands on your doorstep.

On The Beach offers a week’s holiday at the family-friendly, 5-star rated Parrotel Lagoon Resort in Sharm El Sheikh for £460 per person.

CHRISTMAS and New Year’s sales are starting to emerge and this means you could grab some bargain flights.

EasyJet has already launched its Big Orange Sale with up to 20 percent off flights departing between January 5 and December 13, 2026.

If you grab a bargain today, it could even make the ideal last-minute Christmas gift.

You can book discounted fares for as little as £14.49 from now until February 3, 2026.

Destinations include some of the budget airline’s newest routes, such as Tbilisi in Georgia and the Scandinavian Mountains in Sweden.

Alternatively, if you wanted to head off on a ski trip you could fly to top ski destinations in Europe, such as Grenoble in France, Geneva in Switzerland and Innsbruck in Austria.

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Perhaps cold holidays aren’t your thing? Then why not head off to some winter sun spots including Enfidha in Tunisia, Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt and Marrakech in Morocco.

Specific flights include London Gatwick to Palma, in Majorca, from £18.99.

As the capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma is known for its Gothic Cathedral, historic Old Town and of course, pretty beaches.

Or if you fancy relaxing, head to Palma Beach, which is just a short distance from the city centre and boasts turquoise waters, soft sand and a number of nearby restaurants.

If you live near Bristol, you could head to Bordeaux in France for just £14.49.

Known as the wine capital of France, Bordeaux is home to the UNESCO World Heritage ‘Port of the Moon’ with 18th century architecture.

Across Bordeaux, you will find around 6,000 wineries, producing mostly red wine.

If you happen to live in or near Birmingham, for £17.99 you could head to one of the major fashion capitals of the world – Milan, Italy.

While in the city, Duomo di Milano (Milan Cathedral) is also worth visiting; it has Gothic features and you can climb the roof for panoramic views of the city.

From Manchester you could head to Madrid from £21.49 per person.

The capital of Spain is home to many sites to explore that are ideal for history lovers, such as the Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor and Retiro Park.

There are also several museums, such as the Prado Museum – the main Spanish national art museum – and Reina Sofia Museum home to a collection of 20th-century art.

And if you fancy a holiday package, easyJet is also offering up to £400 off of all easyJet holidays.

For this discount to apply you have to spend a minimum of £4,000 though.

Or you could get £300 off of a £3,000 spend, £150 off of a £1,500 spend, £100 off an £800 spend and £50 off a £500 spend with the code ‘BIGSALE’.

You will need to book before 11pm on March 3, 2026, and then travel between now and October 31, 2027.

All easyJet holiday packages include flights and a hotel, with 23kg luggage per person and transfers if booking a beach holiday.

Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK country manager, said: “By launching our Big Orange Sale today, customers can take advantage of our great value fares and make plans for a well-deserved break to look forward to in 2026.

“With over 45 new routes from the UK available for next year, customers can choose from flights and package holidays to up to 140 destinations across Europe and beyond, whether that’s to return to their top holiday hotspot, or discover somewhere new.

“We look forward to welcoming millions of customers onboard in 2026 and we remain focused on providing them with low-cost travel, flying them where they want to go, and always aiming to make the travel experience easy.”

In other aviation news, there are six new holiday destinations getting Wizz Air flights – and one is a UK-first.

Plus, seven short-haul destinations perfect for a January holiday with flights from £14.99.

GLIDING into the glitzy Grand Atrium and gazing up at three marble-clad floors of bars and boutiques, a thought hit me.

If this is just one small section of the impressive ship Iona, how am I going to experience everything on offer in just one-and-a-half days?

This was my first cruise and, as a total novice, I’d decided to book a short, two-night sailing.

P&O Cruises’ Iona is deemed the perfect ship for first-time British cruisers, partly because — carrying 5,200 guests and 1,800 crew, it is big enough to not feel cramped or overwhelming.

Plus there are plenty of familiar UK favourites on board from roast dinners to Tetley tea.

And with prices starting at £199 per person, including all your food and activities, you can’t go wrong.

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Longer voyages are cracking value, too, with five nights on a European itinerary costing less than £500pp.

You could spend a week on board and not run out of things to do thanks to Iona’s 30 bars and restaurants, ten entertainment venues — including a cinema, theatre and spa — swimming pools and hot tubs along the decks.

I stayed in a Conservatory Suite, where floor-to-ceiling windows offered breathtaking views without having to brave the biting wind on the balcony — the only downside of a UK cruise.

Luckily, the SkyDome has a heated indoor pool and this area of the boat has just had a sleek refit.

It’s a great place to kick back with a beer in hand (a pint of Moretti costs £6.25).

Nowhere is quite as relaxing as the spa, though — home to a therapeutic sauna, sensory steam room and rejuvenating hydrotherapy pool.

If that doesn’t float your boat, why not indulge in some retail therapy at the on-board boutiques, where you’ll find designer watches, bags and sunglasses, among other gems.

A particular hit with my husband was the Barbour shop — I’m fairly certain he came home with a whole new wardrobe.

When we weren’t watching aerial acrobatics in the large theatre, or rolling dice at the casino, we were sampling the excellent food.

‘BUFFET OF DREAMS’

The Horizon Restaurant — an all-you-can eat buffet of dreams — has salads and sandwiches, freshly-cut kebabs and full roast dinners.

Meanwhile, The Quays offers a street food style selection of live cooking stations, where I tucked into delicious breakfasts of fresh scrambled eggs and hash browns.

And Ripples ice cream parlour serves treats with edible cups and spoons — a small but fabulous nod to P&O cutting back on waste.

It would be hard to tire of the dining options included in your fare, but if you do fancy treating yourself, the speciality joints are top notch.

We loved Sindhu, the Indian restaurant where you can get three courses for £22, with a £3 supplement for the lobster thermidor.

My husband and I enjoyed Sindhu’s signature cocktail, the East India punch, a muddle of spiced rum, cognac, falernum (a sweet syrup) and tropical juices.

And if you can’t decide what to eat, the Sindhu Signature Plate boasts smaller portions of three of their most popular dishes: the duck tikka malabari, the beef lali mirch masala and the creamy lobster, drenched in thermidor sauce.

Elsewhere, the Glass House in the Grand Atrium offers a heavenly seven-course tasting menu and wine pairing (priced at around £35 a person), by award-winning wine expert Olly Smith and acclaimed Spanish chef Jose Pizarro.

Our highlight was a black tie dinner and show at the adults-only Limelight Club, with a performance from singer Jonathan Wilkes and a nightclub boogie on board.

If that doesn’t convert you to a cruise lover, I’m not sure what will.

FANTASY lovers can take a step down the hobbit hole this winter, as a new location invites guests inside to escape the icy winter weather.

A Tolkien-inspired holiday spot has opened for business north-west of Cambridge, with pods and lodges available for keen glampers.

Just outside of Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk, West Stow Pods offers a peaceful stay for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Emulating world-famous Hobbiton, the pods and lodges are equipped to service groups between two and six people.

Pods are fitted out with a kitchenette and appliances, as well as an en-suite, TV and bedroom area, and are slightly smaller than the lodges.

The lodges are bigger, with full kitchens and separate bedrooms, as well as living room space.

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West Stow Pods is also pet friendly, allowing families to include their furry family members in holiday plans.

The glamping spot has been recognised as one of the best forest getaway spots in the UK.

Located next to King Forest, the options for hikes, bike rides and time in nature are endless.

Guests can also choose to spend the day in the local town, which is jam-packed with restaurants and shops to explore.

West Stow has priced rooms between £170 and £458 for two nights, depending on whether you choose a pod or a lodge.

Future guests can secure a spot by booking on the company’s website.

For holiday makers who are more keen of the seaside than the forest, the pretty seaside town of Saundersfoot has cosy pubs and award winning hotels.

The town sits between Tenby and Amroth in Pembrokeshire.

It’s home to around 3,000 residents and has a Blue Flag sandy beach, a picturesque harbour with cafes and shops, plenty of walking paths – but absolutely no rides.

And according to WalesOnline its “craggy coastline is amongst the most beautiful in the world and can be enjoyed year-round, especially in autumn”.

Someone on Tripadvisor described the village as a “winter wonderland” when the Christmas lights are up.

It’s a popular place for Atlantic grey seals and you can see them on boat trips – and you can see them all year round

Saundersfoot has previously been named one of the ‘best places to live by the sea in the UK 2024’ by The Sunday Times.

The family-run restaurant serves up meals from curries to pastas, surf and turf, steak, and burgers.

IF you’re dreaming of going somewhere picturesque and peaceful, there’s a certain stunning cottage calling your name.

Residing in one of Wales‘ beautiful peninsulas, the white-washed home – known as Bwthyn Trehilyn – is incredibly popular for holiday bookings.

This isn’t only because it boasts six bedrooms, scenic views and the perfect step away to disconnect from the hubbub of busy, daily life.

It just so happens to be owned by a famous TV star.

Comedian, actor and television presenter Griff Rhys Jones took ownership of the now-beautiful cottage when it was in a rather derelict state.

It was once part of a collection of stone properties that collectively formed a working Pembrokeshire farm.

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But now Bwthyn Trehilyn is enjoying a new lease of life as a holiday rental, thanks to becoming the fifth property renovated by Griff.

Under the Thatch, a company who curate collections of the most refined holiday homes in Wales, announced Bwthyn Trehilyn as the top-selling accommodation for 2025.

Visitors adored the charm of the building, as well as its thoughtfully updated interiors including its adjoining servants’ wing, a former mill, and a granary.

Interior designers did their best to keep some of the interior’s original character, incorporating vintage furniture relevant to the period and restoring wooden ceiling beams.

Though one of the main sells for travellers was its location, being only a short walk away from the Abermawr beach.

The beach features a private lake, ideal for watching a stunning rural sunset melt into the water or an evening of fishing.

It only took a stroll through the area back in 2004 for Griff to decide he just had to snap up the cottage and return it to its former beauty.

WE all know Wowcher is good for offers, but did you know you could go on holiday for just £89 and it is all-inclusive?

Holidays really can add up – by the time you book flights, airport transfers, and accommodation, you may have already spent hundreds.

Then add in the costs when you are there, like eating and seeing paid-for attractions.

Often, holidays aren’t cheap.

But this is what makes all-inclusive so appealing, as it takes away that stress.

And Wowcher now has deals as cheap as £89 for an all-inclusive break away.

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For example, you could head to a four-star all-inclusive resort in Tunisia.

The package includes return flights, two nights at a four-star hotel and all your meals and drinks.

The hotel is the Occidental Sousse Marhaba, which has recently been refurbished according to Wowcher.

At the hotel, guests will find two outdoor pools, a wellness centre, direct beach access, kids’ pools, on-site bars, and a sauna and hammam.

Rooms at the hotel include en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and either have a garden or sea view.

When it comes to food and drink, you get your daily meals, snacks and drinks included.

One recent guest said: “Lovely hotel, good choice of food, staff very pleasant.

“Evening entertainment was good. We paid extra for a sea view and it was well worth it.

“Five min walk through the grounds to the beach. Has a lovely pool.

“You can book trips out by speaking to the lovely Lee who explains the trips in detail. We did the Sahara Explorer, it was amazing.

“Would return to this hotel. Sousse is a beautiful place.”

Nearby you can explore the medina of Sousse, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There are a number of souks as well, such as Sousse Medina Souk.

One recent visitor said: “Needs at least a couple of hours to soak up the atmosphere and wander.

“I love wandering around a souk. This one is easy to navigate and not overlarge.

“Also very pretty in parts as this is a very ancient medina area, where people have been trading and living since ancient times.”

History lovers should head to the Ribat of Sousse, a small fort that was built in the eighth century and has a tower boasting panoramic views.

Or head to the Sousse Archaeological Museum, where you can explore a collection of mosaics and statues, as well as sit in a pretty courtyard.

There is one date left in January, from January 18 to 20.

But there are several dates still available in February, including February 1 to 3, 8 to 10, 23 to 25 and 25 to 27.

Or for £99, you could head off on February 24 for two nights.

Prices then rise from March onwards.

Alternatively, you could head to Majorca in Spain, staying at the Bluesea Mediodia for £99 for two nights.

The hotel includes meals, snacks and unlimited drinks and your flights will be from either London Gatwick, London Stansted, London Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol or Edinburgh.

At the hotel, there is a swimming pool, restaurants and beach access.

One recent guest said: “Considering the price and the services offered, I was very satisfied!

“The hotel is in an excellent location, very close to the beach. The food is varied and can satisfy both those with simple tastes and those who are more demanding.

“The rooms have air conditioning, which is a great plus during hot days.”

The hotel is just a 16-minute drive from Palma, so is a great spot for exploring the city, but also soaking up sunshine on the coast.

Dates available for the £99 offer include January 19 to 21, and the 26 to 28.

Or if you travelled in February, you could go on the 4 to 6, 23 to 25 or 25 to 27.

Prices then rise from March onwards.

For more getaway inspiration, there’s an all-inclusive hotel that’s just been named best in Europe with ten swimming pools, free childcare and Jet2 flights.

Plus, 10 winter sun holidays for all budgets – with 7 nights from £193pp.

BRITISH Airways Holidays has revealed what travel will look like in 2026 – from new destinations to trending trips.

Teaming up with Globetrender, it has released its 2026 Travel Trends Report.

They have named eight of their “rising stars” which have seen a surge in searches for 2026 compared to 2025.

The biggest jump is Bermuda, which has seen a 38 per cent increase in searches.

This was followed by St Kitts (31 per cent), Turks & Caicos (22 per cent) and Grenada (20 per cent).

Yet some of Europe made the list, with searches to Crete up 18 per cent.

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Otherwise Costa Rica (15 per cent), Nashville (13 per cent) and Antigua (8 per cent) are on the up too.

The most popular search destinations are some of the more well-known destinations, set to remain big in 2026:

1. New York
2. Orlando
3. Dubai
4. Maldives
5. Barbados
6. Las Vegas
7. Cancun
8. St Lucia
9. Dominican Republic
10. Antigua

Along with destinations, they also looked at some of the trend when it comes to what kinds of holidays people are booking.

This includes Stream Parks (theme parks combining physical attractions with AR) and Neurosurfing (more wellness based holidays).

Andrew Flintham, Managing Director of British Airways Holidays, said: “I always look forward to what our annual Travel Trends Report will reveal.

“It’s clear the prevailing interest in wellness culture is continuing to impact the way we holiday, with many of our trends leaning into this overarching movement.

“I wasn’t too surprised to learn of The Valueverse, and the ever-increasing demand for new ways to collect and spend points. We’re excited to make these trends a reality for our customers.”

Globetrender founder Jenny Southan added: “In a world shaped by economic pressure, digital saturation and rising social fragmentation,
holidays are becoming spaces of transformation – opportunities for people to test new identities, restore mental balance and discover forms of joy that everyday routines suppress.

“This shift marks a profound redefinition of what a holiday is for: not just escape, but expansion.

“The findings in this report show a British traveller who is more experimental.”

Here are 10 other destinations set to be big next year, according to Skyscanner.

We’ve also revealed how to take six holidays in 2026 for under £1,000, all in.

And there are some places to avoid for a holiday next year – here’s the full list.

CHRISTMAS is nearly here, but hot on its heels is what seems to be the year’s, longest, most miserable month: January.

The UK endures some of the dimmest winter light in Europe, says travel company First Choice, with just 41 to 62 hours of sun in the WHOLE of January, equating to only between 90 minutes and two hours a day.

So there couldn’t be a better month to escape abroad.

Lisa Minot suggests sunny escapes that will boost your mood without hurting your bank balance.

CYPRUS

You’ll get three times more sunshine on this sun-drenched island that enjoys 3,4000 hours of blue skies a year.

Temperatures in January are still a very acceptable 18C to 20C and the sun shines an average of five to six hours a day.

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Get your fix with a cheeky short stay at the 4* Louis Phaethon Beach right on the seafront near Paphos.

The hotel has two fabulous pools and three restaurants.

Four nights’ all-inclusive is from £337pp including flights from Manchester on January 14.

Check out firstchoice.co.uk.

LANZAROTE

Laze the day away beside your own sparkling private pool at the Rubi Mar village near Playa Blanca.

Here in the Canary Islands, you can expect six to seven hours of sunshine a day in January, with temperatures a balmy 20C or 21C.

The three-bed villa sits in lovely grounds and is within walking distance of a shop and restaurant.

Seven nights’ self-catering is from £240pp, based on six sharing and including flights from Gatwick on January 8.

See solmarvillas.com.

FLORIDA & CARIBBEAN CRUISE

This is the ultimate holiday for sun-seekers.

An incredible 15-night deal twins an Orlando stay with the chance to cruise the sun-soaked islands of the Caribbean.

Expect temperatures in the high twenties throughout, and seven to nine hours of sunshine.

This trip of a lifetime includes a five-night stay in Orlando, with a ticket to the new Epic Universe theme park as well as a seven-night full-board Caribbean cruise aboard the new Star Princess with ports of call in Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic.

And that’s not all — there’s also a two-night stay in Miami included as well a tour of the Everglades.

The price, £1,699, includes return flights from London on January 12 and dedicated transfers throughout.

To book, go to cruise.co.uk or call 0870 990 8824.

MOROCCO

Soak up Moroccan sunshine in magical Marrakech as you visit the bustling souks then enjoy a dip in the rooftop plunge pool at your traditional riad hotel.

Temperatures are 18C to 20C in January and you can expect seven hours of sunshine a day.

This Travelbag deal includes seven nights’ B&B at the boutique Riad Vert, in the heart of the old town and a ten-minute stroll from the souks.

Prices from £649pp include flights from Gatwick on January 11 and private transfers. See travelbag.co.uk or call 0203 944 3694.

THAILAND

It’s a little farther to fly but you’ll be rewarded by sizzling temperatures from 28C to 32C and nine hours of sunshine a day if you head to the tropical paradise of Hua Hin this January.

The 3* Ibis Hua Hin hotel is just a five-minute stroll from a sandy shore and has an outdoor pool and great restaurant.

It’s also close to the Cicada Market and Vana Nava Water Jungle.

Seven nights’ room-only is from £760pp including flights from Stansted On January 20.

Check out onthebeach.co.uk.

EGYPT

The Red Sea resort of Hurghada promises guaranteed sun in January, with eight to ten hours of clear skies a day and temperatures ranging from 19C to 22C.

The 4* Sea Star Beau Rivage hotel sits right on its own sandy beach and features two huge pools set in palm-lined gardens.

The spa and hammam on site is perfect for pampering too.

Seven nights’ all-inclusive is from £378pp including flights from Gatwick on January 21.

Check out travelsupermarket.com.

MADEIRA

Enjoy sub-tropical temperatures and abundant nature on this stunning island in the Atlantic.

Expect daily temperatures of around 19C in January, and five or six hours of sunshine a day.

The 3* Mathu Raga Madeira Hotel is just a short stroll from Funchal’s popular Lido promenade.

The hotel’s pool is heated in winter and while the Mathu Raga has a lovely buffet restaurant, the delights of the town’s many restaurants and bars are within easy walking distance.

Seven nights’ room-only is from £439pp including flights from Birmingham on January 26, 22kg luggage and transfers.

To book, see jet2holidays.com.

FUERTEVENTURA

Treat yourself on this lovely Canary Island with average daytime highs of 20C and six to seven hours of sunshine.

The 4* Occidental Jandia Playa hotel has panoramic seaside views as well as two beautiful pools to lounge beside.

A ten-minute walk from Jandia Beach there’s also two restaurants, four bars and evening entertainment to keep you busy.

Seven nights’ half-board is from £600pp including flights from Stansted on January 16, 20kg hold luggage and transfers.

See tui.co.uk.

FORKS at the ready and bosh – Big John is hosting a lavish feast to remember.

The Instagram foodie, who rose to fame for eating Chinese takeaways, is putting new flavours to the test this Christmas by bringing the best of the Spanish and Great British festive food together.

It included the jambon, a traditional part of the Spanish Christmas dinner, which went down a treat with the influencer, whereas he said the British staple of Brussels sprouts can ‘do one’.

The meal was completed with Pastas de España, as well as classic British turkey.

But now, John has claimed he is a changed man and will add a bit of Spanish to his Christmas meal every time.

The spread featuring both nation’s Christmas classics to celebrate the El Gordo Lottery – which is the biggest lottery in the world.

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A spokesperson for Lottoland.co.uk, which commissioned the survey ahead of the £2.4 billion El Gordo Christmas lotto draw, said: “It’s so exciting to bring the Spanish tradition to the UK in the tastiest way possible and who better to work with than Big John…BOSH.

“We are so glad he approves of the traditional Spanish food and has given his stamp of approval.

“Although his feedback wasn’t as glowing for the Brussels sprouts.”

It comes after research of 2,000 adults who celebrate Christmas found six in 10 would like to mark the event in another country to escape holiday stress at home or avoid a British washout.

And 53 per cent of those would like to make new memories in a totally different setting.

While 45 per cent want to enjoy festive food from another cuisine and 31 per cent would meet up with pals who already live abroad.

With the USA, Australia and Spain among the top international destinations where people would love to spend December 25, along with Canada, Germany and Switzerland.

But 40 per cent would like to try out the Japanese tradition of tucking into mountains of KFC on Christmas Day, rather than a typical roast.

Despite a desire to head overseas to celebrate, 76 per cent of those polled said a British Christmas dinner is still the best thing a person can possibly eat on December 25.

But if they did celebrate the day away from home, 67 per cent would be likely to try a local festive dish.

A quarter (25 per cent) would be most curious to try the Feast of Seven Fishes served in Italy, while almost one in 10 (eight per cent) fancy the taste of mantecados – shortbread – served in Spain.

However, 48 per cent would miss the classic meal with all the trimmings, while 31 per cent would feel strange not seeing all the familiar TV specials and festive programming.

And despite moaning about the UK weather, 27 per cent would miss a cold, crisp winter climate if they went somewhere warmer.

As 43 per cent believe Christmas is not ‘complete’ without a cosy festive jumper, according to the OnePoll.com data.

Nearly seven in 10 (69 per cent) would be open to adopting totally new festive traditions if they did go away for the big day.

And they would most want to capture that feeling of togetherness (32 per cent), while 20 per cent would aim for excitement and 16 per cent nostalgia.

Lottoland.co.uk’s spokesperson added: “Spending Christmas abroad offers a fresh perspective on the season.

“Whether it’s swapping snow for sunshine or discovering new festive traditions, there’s something magical about experiencing the holiday through a different cultural lens.

“If you like to spend your Christmas in the UK, it’s not too hard to do a quick online search to find a new tradition from Madrid to Perth and incorporate it into your own festivities.

“But wherever you celebrate, being with the people you love, or at least connected to them, is truly the most important thing.”

ARE you a “Just-in-case Jetsetter” or a “Chill Improviser” when it comes to travelling abroad?

A new travel quiz aims to uncover what type of traveller you are, by asking a series of trip-related questions.

Other outcomes include “The master planner” and “The social explorer”.

It comes after a poll of two thousand adults who go on holiday revealed Brits’ biggest travel blunders including getting lobster red sunburn (26 per cent).

Going exploring and winding up completely lost (24 per cent) and spilling my drink all over myself or even an unsuspecting stranger (14 per cent) also made the list of blush inducing mishaps.

Misreading a menu and ordering something unexpected (12 per cent) and accidently boarding the wrong train or bus (nine per cent) also made the top 30 list.

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The study was commissioned by ibis to support the launch of its new social media miniseries, the Go Getters.

Jean-Yves Minet, global brand president of ibis, said:  “Everyone travels differently. Some people prepare for every possibility, and others prefer to go with the flow – but no matter your style, the odd mishap is part of the experience and the story you tell when you get home.

“This research shows just how universal those moments are.

“We focus on making travel feel simple and stress-free, whether you’re the spontaneous type, or somewhere in the middle.

“What matters most is feeling confident on the move and being able to enjoy the journey, even when it does not quite go to plan. Sometimes the magic is in the mayhem – it certainly makes for the best story.”

The research found as many as 86 per cent have experienced some kind of mishap on holiday, with 11 per cent experiencing a mishap during most or all of their trips.

And while 68 per cent said other people had had a little laugh at their blunders, 77 per cent did manage to see the funny side too eventually.

When a holiday blunder strikes, 44 per cent would try to fix it, while 22 per cent said they would laugh it off straight away.

But while 56 per cent think a few travel dramas are all part of the adventure, 77 per cent believe they are pretty good at planning to avoid them in the first place.

Buying travel insurance (56 per cent), triple checking their passport is there (48 per cent) and continually applying sun cream (43 per cent) were among the key hacks to avoid disaster.

Followed by double checking the locks and keys (36 per cent), packing a first aid kit (31 per cent) and keeping a watchful eye on the weather forecast (30 per cent).

The research, carried out via OnePoll, also revealed 31 per cent want to travel more in 2026 than they did this year, with 35 per cent claiming the experience is more important than just ticking somewhere off their list.

When it comes to planning these trips, they prioritise location (61 per cent), as well as price (59 per cent) and reviews (44 per cent).

While 64 per cent think the key to affordable travel means getting the best value for money and smart planning and budgeting (40 per cent).

Jean-Yves added: “Everyone has had a moment on holiday that didn’t quite go to plan.

“These findings show just how common they are, and how quickly most people turn them into moments of connection, laughter and shared stories.”