According to the Skyscanner comparison site holidaymakers can jet off on a summer break for less than £80 – and they shared the cheapest day to travel
A beautiful beach on Comino island, Malta(Image: Getty)
Millions of people across the UK have already booked their summer holidays, but there are still plenty of options for those yet to make plans. While travel can be costly, a trip abroad can cost less than £80 for the flights.
According to Skyscanner, UK travellers could find return flights for under £80 next month. Skyscanner is a travel comparison website that lets users search and compare flights from hundreds of airlines and travel providers. It also offers tools such as price alerts, flexible date searches, and its “Everywhere” feature, which helps travellers find the cheapest destinations.
The company says Dublin, Milan and Prague are among the cheapest places to visit in June. And for those holding out for a summer getaway in July and wanting a little extra time to save, these are the 10 destinations worth considering for a last-minute holiday.
Top 10 cheapest destinations in July 2026
Dublin, Ireland: Average return is £76 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Milan, Italy: Average return is £103 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Palma, Spain: Average return is £111 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Ibiza, Spain: Average return is £137 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Rome, Italy: Average return is £137 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Alicante, Spain: Average return is £150 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Budapest, Hungary: Average return is £162 and the cheapest day to fly out is Sunday
Faro, Portugal: Average return is £171 and the cheapest day to fly out is Monday
Marrakech, Morocco: Average return is £177 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
Valletta, Malta: Average return is £183 and the cheapest day to fly out is Tuesday
The comparison experts say the prices are based on the median cost of economy return flights booked through Skyscanner for travel in 2025 on the selected route and month, including taxes and fees.
Experts say many people assume their travel insurance automatically covers phones, tablets and other gadgets. But policies vary, so it’s worth checking the small print before you travel to avoid unexpected costs.
It notes: “Not all travel insurance policies include gadget cover. And travel insurance payouts for valuables are often low – as little as £200 for one item or £500 in total.”
Fans of the classic cocktail, which has seen a huge resurgence in popularity in recent years, should head to this sunny city where you can enjoy a glass of the summery orange drink for just one Euro
The Aperol Spritz has become one of the most popular cocktails on holiday(Image: Getty Images/Westend61)
Head to the Mediterranean during the summer months and you’ll often see tables laden with oversized glasses of Aperol Spritz. The iconic orange cocktail has become a holiday staple, whether it’s served at a pavement café in a cobblestoned old town, or a beachfront bar with plastic chairs.
But like many so aspects of holidays, the price has been steadily rising in popular resorts, turning it into a costly treat. However, there are still places where you can pick up an inexpensive cocktail, and one city has been named the cheapest spot to enjoy an ice cold Aperol.
Travel money provider eurochange has put together an Aperol Spritz index, tracking the top ten cheapest destinations in Europe where you can enjoy this summery cocktail without worrying about your bar bill, and luckily the least expensive spot is just a three-hour flight from the UK.
According to the research, Naples in Italy is the cheapest place to order your Aperol with the average cost coming in at €2 (approximately £1.73), but one bar is famous for serving these sunset cocktails for just one Euro (approximately 86p). Don’t expect a fancy cocktail bar if you visit Cammarota Spritz as it consists of tables crammed into an alleyway and drinks served in plastic cups, but the lively atmosphere has seen it receive a raft of positive reviews, with one saying it was: “Our favourite bar in Naples, no messing about with ‘drink-in’ or ‘takeaway’ prices, no service charges, just good cheap Spritz.”
And after a few Euro spritzes, you may find yourself craving another Napoli staple; the city is the birthplace of modern pizza, and you’ll find plenty of hole-in-the-wall places where you can pick up a slice. A popular late-night snack is pizza al portafoglio, also known as ‘wallet pizza’ as it comes folded and served in paper so you can devour it while walking back to your hotel.
Naples is ideal for as a spring or autumn city break, offering about 210 sunny days a year, so you can enjoy the winding historic streets and visit attractions such as Museo Cappella Sansevero, home of the stunning marble Veiled Christ statue.
Explore the city’s ancient sites at Napoli Sotterranea – underground Naples – taking you through an extensive network of streets and squares built under the surface by Romans and Greeks. Pass throw the narrow tunnels of the aqueduct, see old air raid shelters from World War 2, and climb through a hatch into the ancient Roman theatre of Neapolis.
Naples also has a variety of beaches, including some small stretches of sand on the outskirts of the city. These urban beaches can be small and busy during heatwaves, but they’re perfect for when you simply want a quick dip in the Med.
You can also take buses further down the coast for a day at a beach club or a public beach. Close to Naples you’ll find Gaiola Beach, famous for its islets that rise from the sea that can be crossed by bridge. Or the craggy coastline of Scoglione Marechiaro, famous for its turquoise waters.
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Hotels.com’s 2026 Hotel Price Index has identified the top 10 destinations where you can enjoy a five-star stay on a budget – with some high-end options available from as little as £70 a night
12:00, 09 Jun 2026Updated 14:11, 09 Jun 2026
These are the top destinations for luxury stays on a budget(Image: Getty Images)
The top 10 destinations offering five-star stays on a budget have been revealed. Despite unpredictable travel costs, securing a luxury holiday without breaking the bank is entirely achievable – with high-end range accommodation available for as low as £70.
The findings from Hotels.com’s 2026 Hotel Price Index drew on internal booking information and a worldwide survey of 11,000 travellers from the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, France, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and South Korea.
Travel expert and spokesperson Melanie Fish said: “Travellers may be feeling the squeeze, but they’re also getting smarter. “With increasing volatility in travel prices this summer, fuel costs may be dominating the conversation, but hotel prices are where travellers are making real trade-offs.”
The research revealed that luxury breaks in Croatia, Estonia, Zaragoza, Spain and Bulgaria can also be enjoyed for less than £150 a night.
The Index also uncovered other affordable yet indulgent alternatives destinations, including stays in Wrocław, Poland (£120), Tirana, Albania (£130) and Riga, Latvia (£130). Five-star accommodation can be found in the UK as well – with options in Brighton (£115), Cornwall (£135) and Liverpool (£170).
Alongside identifying 10 of the most budget-friendly destinations, the research highlighted 10 notable locations that have experienced significant price reductions over the past year – including Loire, France (down 32%) and Edmonton, Canada (down 31%).
Additional destinations include St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands (down 30%), Dortmund, Germany (down 21%) and Turin, Italy (also down 21%).
Surprisingly, the findings showed that booking last minute can actually save money, with hotel rates up to 26% cheaper when reserving closer to your departure date. For those seeking to reduce expenses even further, the data revealed prices are 14% lower for Sunday stays – with Saturdays proving the most costly.
Escaping in January delivers the best value, while the second week of July commands the highest rates – domestically at least.
Hotels.com’s global study, conducted through OnePoll, also disclosed what tops everyone’s luxury dream wish list – a hot tub with a view (44%) followed by a penthouse suite (41%).
When questioned about what defines a genuinely luxurious hotel experience, exceptional food at the hotel (31%), a room with a view (30%) and premium in-room amenities (28%) emerged as the top priorities.
TEN OF THE CHEAPEST FIVE-STAR STAYS ABROAD:
Nha Trang, Vietnam (£70)
Zaragoza, Spain (£120)
Wrocław, Poland (£120)
Tirana, Albania (£130)
Riga, Latvia (£130)
Zagreb, Croatia (£130)
Sofia, Bulgaria (£135)
Heraklion (Crete), Greece (£135)
Tallinn, Estonia (£140)
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (£140)
TEN OF THE BIGGEST INTERNATIONAL PRICE DROPS YEAR-ON-YEAR:
The money-saving experts shared a tip for people booking expensive holiday destinations
The tip could help holidaymakers save money (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
A savvy travel tip could help holidaymakers save money on trips to expensive destinations. MoneySavingExpert (MSE), founded by journalist and broadcaster Martin Lewis, often shares money-saving tips for the public. According to a previous blog post from the MSE team, some travellers could save money by booking a hotel they don’t need.
The experts explained that package holidays can sometimes offer better deals than scheduled flights for certain destinations. So travellers could save money by booking their flight as part of a package deal, then booking their preferred accommodation, assuming they’re not keen on the hotel included with the package.
MSE said: “Scheduled flights to some destinations, such as Orlando and Sri Lanka, can be silly money, yet packages there can sometimes come in much cheaper. If you only need the flight, check if there’s a cheaper package holiday, then grab it but DON’T stay in the hotel.”
The guidance added that Martin has previously had success with the trick, helping a friend book a holiday to Sri Lanka. MSE said the passenger paid £300 for the holiday to cover their flights, when the cheapest scheduled deal was over £1,000.”
In another blog post dedicated to cheap package holidays, MSE reiterates the advice. The experts explained: “If you’re going away specifically for seven, 10 or 14 days to a traditional holiday destination, package holidays are often best. They can sometimes be much cheaper than booking a scheduled flight… even if you DON’T want to use the hotel.
“For example, we found flights for a seven-day trip to Florida for £689 per person – a package holiday for the same dates was just £662 per person. It won’t always work, but it’s worth a try.”
When checking flight prices, passengers may wish to compare prices on sites such as Skyscanner. Booking on different days could help customers find the best deals.
Skyscanner says: “Flight pricing changes constantly based on demand, season and route. There’s no fixed ‘cheapest day’ to book but with the right tools, you can stay informed.
“Historically, Skyscanner pricing trends have shown that some airlines release deals late on Mondays, which may lead to lower fares early in the week. Prices tend to rise again as the week progresses and demand increases.”
Some holidaymakers wait until the last minute for deals. Skyscanner explains: “On quieter routes or off-peak travel days, prices may drop as the departure date approaches. But on popular routes or peak dates, fares often increase as the flight fills up.”
Important message for anyone with a package holiday booked
09:50, 08 Jun 2026Updated 09:53, 08 Jun 2026
Simon Calder reminded people to give ‘immediate notice’ and to not wait if they encounter issues(Image: ITV)
Travel expert Simon Calder has shared important advice for anyone with a package holiday booked, as people are being urged to act ‘as soon as possible’. His message comes ahead of the peak travel season, and as new research by Citizens Advice has revealed that four million people have faced issues with their package holiday over the last year.
On today’s (June 8) episode of ITV’s Good Morning Britain, TV host Kate Garraway spoke to correspondent Nick Dixon about the findings. He said: “The complaints that we’ve been hearing about were involving all-inclusive holidays, with many saying they just didn’t ultimately match up to the glossy brochures we see online, or indeed at the travel agents.
“Citizens Advice say that they found 33% of holiday-related complaints ultimately were about things like poor quality hotels, bad food, facilities being unavailable as well – 19% down to customer service.” He added: “Things like long waits on the phone, complaints ignored and administration errors, and 25% of complaints ultimately led to stress, anxiety or upset.
“And if your dream holiday does turn into a wee bit of a nightmare, there are steps you can take… Many of us with these kinds of complaints about our holidays end up trying to fight for compensation, which is why it is so important to keep a record of everything just in case to have any chance of getting money back.”
British travel journalist and broadcaster Simon Calder then spoke to viewers, sharing a crucial message for those with a package holiday, especially if they encounter problems during their trip. He urged holidaymakers to act ‘immediately’.
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He said: “If you get to your destination and things aren’t right, maybe there’s a problem with your room, maybe the facilities are simply not as described, then you have to give the travel company immediate notice and allow them the opportunity to sort things out.”
How can I claim compensation for a holiday?
Reporting a problem right away is a legal concept called “mitigating your losses”. If you don’t allow the travel provider to address the room or facilities issue while you’re there, you could really hurt your chances of receiving a full refund or compensation.
Citizens Advice says: “If you’re still on holiday, tell the company or travel agent about the problem as soon as possible. You might be able to get it sorted quicker – like if there’s a problem with the room. If you don’t say anything until you get home, you might get less compensation or none at all.”
The person you need to contact depends on how you arranged your holiday. If you went for a package holiday, reach out to the customer service team of the tour operator you chose.
However, if you organised it yourself or set up a linked travel arrangement, you should contact the accommodation or service provider directly, such as the hotel or the company offering excursions. Make sure you include:
your booking reference
clear details of what went wrong
copies any evidence you have – like photos
copies of receipts
how much compensation you want
Citizens Advice adds: “It’s a good idea to send the letter by registered post and keep a copy, so you have proof that the holiday company received it. You can also email them – some of them have online forms. Keep a copy of what you send. If the company makes you an offer that you think is too low, you can ask for more. They might come back to you with a higher offer.”
However, some holidaymakers could face an unwelcome surprise at check-in even if their document have months to years left before it expires.
This relates to the number of blank pages remaining in a passport. While many people focus on expiry dates, some countries require visitors to have one, two or even more completely blank pages available for entry stamps or visa stickers.
Travel experts warn that passengers who fail to meet these requirements could be denied boarding by airlines or refused entry on arrival.
Airlines are often responsible for ensuring passengers meet a destination’s entry requirements and can face penalties for transporting travellers who do not qualify for entry.
According to travel guidance published by Schengen, some destinations require at least two blank passport pages for visas and border stamps. The guidance warns that airlines may refuse boarding if passengers do not have sufficient space remaining in their passport.
The requirement can catch out frequent travellers whose passports are filled with entry and exit stamps from previous trips. Experts say many people mistakenly assume a passport is suitable for travel provided it remains in date.
For travel to the Schengen Area, for instance, passport rules already require Brits to ensure their passport was issued within the previous 10 years and remains valid for at least three months after their planned departure date. Some guidance also notes that travellers may need at least two blank pages available for visas and stamps where applicable.
A recent travel warning highlighted that a lack of blank pages can become a particular issue for frequent flyers and those taking multi-country trips. Countries may require empty pages for visa stickers, while immigration officials also need room for entry and exit stamps.
Travel experts recommend checking passport validity, issue dates and the number of remaining blank pages well in advance of departure. Unlike an expired passport, extra pages cannot simply be added to a modern British passport, meaning travellers who are running out of space may need to renew the document before travelling.
According to guidance cited by travel experts, some countries require between two and four blank pages depending on the destination and visa requirements. Travellers planning complex itineraries involving multiple countries are therefore advised to check entry rules carefully before travelling.
According to Abs Mechial, there is a specific minute every day in which holidays can be booked for cheaper on average – but you may need to set your alarm to take advantage of it
A financial adviser has revealed the best time to book your 2026 holiday (stock)(Image: Ralf Hahn via Getty Images)
If you are yet to book a getaway this year and are wondering when the ideal moment might be to do so, a financial expert has identified precisely when you should – and shouldn’t – make your move. Abs Mechial turned to TikTok to reveal that not only are certain days preferable for booking, but specific times of day matter too.
“When is the worst time to book a holiday and when is it actually cheapest? he asked his followers in a video. Surprisingly, according to research, Abs claimed there is a one-hour window in each day when holidays can cost you significantly more money to book.” he asked his followers.
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“According to the data, the most expensive time to book is between 9am and 10am,” he explained. “Bookings in that window came in around 30 per cent more than the cheapest time of the day – so no more booking holidays as soon as you log in for the day.”
As for the most economical time of day, Abs warned that you might need to set your alarm. “Early… and I mean really early,” he said. “Between 4am and 5am – and the logic does make sense.”
Abs highlighted that overnight, demand “drops off” and consequently prices “reset” to their baseline.
He elaborated: “Then as the day goes on, the more searches and more clicks result in prices starting to creep back up again.”
For those reluctant to wake up before sunrise, however, Abs provided guidance for anyone wanting to book during “more realistic hours”.
“Late evening, around 8pm to 10pm tends to be noticeably cheaper than the morning rush,” he enthused. “But if you want to go even further and want the exact moment – not just the hour, but the minute – according to the data, the single cheapest minute to book a holiday is 2:48am.”
Surprisingly, bookings made at that precise time worked out up to 60 per cent cheaper on average, according to Abs.
He concluded with a word of caution, however: “Now, definitely take that with a pinch of salt – booking at 2:48am isn’t going to make every holiday 60 per cent cheaper, but the pattern is clear – if you want to save money, avoid peak booking hours because timing, just like everything else with money, makes a massive difference.”
Responding in the comments, one TikTok user offered their own unverified tip: “Best to search in private browser so prices do not increase if you are searching for same destinations. Prices increase with demand so private searching will prevent this.”
A second person added: “I usually book mine within 72 hours of departure… like 50% cheaper! I find the hotels I want and then I wait for them to deal them off.”
A third exclaimed: “Wow that’s crazy how the time of day can cost you!”
While a fourth TikTok user pointed out: “Doesn’t change if you want a certain resort at a certain time of year.”
She shared how to make the most of your luggage allowance when travelling as a family
Stacey Solomon said parents need to be ‘prepared for any eventuality’(Image: 2025 Jeff Spicer/Getty Images)
TV star Stacey Solomon shared a handful of essentials parents should pack before a flight in a previous partnership with Jet2. She said: “When I’m packing hand luggage, it’s one of those things that I really need to think about because I know, when you’re on a flight with kids, you just want to be prepared for any eventuality.”
Stacey’s hand luggage “staples” when travelling with kids include a variety of things that can keep little ones occupied and make the flight go a lot smoother for the parents and other passengers.
Packing your own snacks is an excellent way to keep kids occupied, save money on airport prices, and avoid limited options once in the air. Make sure that it follows airport security rules (such as no liquids over 100ml).
Bringing any games to play can help keep little ones occupied without the need for devices. Stacey suggested card games, as they avoid the need for fiddly plastic pieces or dice flying about the cabin.
She said: “Another thing I love bringing in [the kids] hand luggage is sticker books. My kids will sit and do sticker books for ages. They love colouring, but if you don’t want to pick up pencils from under everyone’s seat the entire flight, go with stickers – it’s a better option!”
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Another thing to remember for a fun memory is a cuddly toy. Stacey said that Jet2 has a “really cute” offer for a free ‘Teddy Passport’ that can be filled out in the airport.
The scheme was launched in October 2023, and it’s still offered in 2026. Simply ask one of the check-in agents at the desk when you arrive to drop off your bags, and they will provide you with a complimentary passport.
A Jet2 spokesperson said: “After receiving a teddy bear passport, holidaymakers can then give their teddy’s passport to Cabin Crew when boarding. As well as being a fun start to the holiday, parents have reported that it has helped their children feel a sense of independence and given them some understanding about the process of travelling overseas from a young age.”
Stacey’s top tips for packing
Make a list: Stacey says to keep a list of everything you want and need to take away with you. Following a list means you will not forget things, overpack or potentially leave something behind at home. She said: “I know exactly what I’ve got if I refer to my list.”
Use packing cubes: Stacey said that she “genuinely swears by these” and they can be bought from places like Amazon, Argos, Dunelm, Primark and more. In her Jet2 video, the mum of five had her items sorted into categories such as cosmetics and sun safety.
Plan crease-free outfits: By not worrying if clothes will end up wrinkled, Stacey said items can be packed much tighter in a suitcase and can therefore mean extra room. She joked: “Stop going on holiday in linen – you’ll be ironing the whole time!”
A passenger revealed that the tip ‘really helped’ when they encountered a common travel problem
Plane passengers can benefit from the travel tip (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
Passengers have been advised to pack an extra item in their hold luggage before travelling. The ‘helpful’ travel tip was shared by an airline passenger who swears by the method. The recommendation was shared on Reddit’s r/airport forum. Sharing a question for social media users, a travel fan asked: “What are the best airport tips?”
The post read: “My trick is to always carry an empty bottle. After passing through security at every airport, I look for a drinking fountain. Most airports have a couple of them. I discovered a nice website called Water at Airport. If I can’t find one, I just do a quick search on the website.
“This is just a recommendation. Let me know if you have any other trips to the airport. I’m planning some new trips and will definitely need them!” In response, passengers shared several recommendations, including a tip that could be useful for anyone flying with hold luggage.
A traveller wrote: “I might be old school, but I not only tag my bag on the outside but I also put my name and address identification on the inside.” They explained: “This really became helpful when my bag was delayed and then the exterior luggage tag somehow got ripped off.
“I was able to describe the bag, its contents, as well as the additional tag information in the bag – it really helped! This can be as simple as writing your name, address and phone number on a piece of paper and then putting it inside a Ziploc bag and then putting it somewhere inside your checked luggage.”
Most airlines recommend that passengers include a label inside and outside their luggage. While the inner label is not often needed, it could be helpful if the exterior label falls off.
For instance, easyJet advises customers to add a luggage label to their bags and leave contact information inside the luggage. Recommending the idea to passengers, easyJet’s website says: “Make sure your bags stand out from the crowd on the carousel!
“We advise attaching something noticeable and unique to your luggage like a colourful ribbon, eye-catching sticker or personalised tag. This will make it easier for you to spot your luggage on the carousel at arrivals and avoid any confusion with similar bags.
“We also recommend adding a label to your luggage with your name and contact details such as address, email and phone number and put a copy of these details inside your bag too! This would really help us reunite you with your bag in the unlikely event of the exterior tags falling off.”
British Airways offers similar advice. The airline’s website says: “Label your bags inside and out with your name, destination address, email address and mobile number.”
The budget airline is offering a range of discounted flights from UK airports
easyJet is currently offering a number of flights at a reduced rate(Image: Getty)
Brits planning a holiday abroad have the next few days to book discounted flights. Budget airline easyJet is currently offering up to 15 per cent off certain trips.
The reduction applies to selected flights between June 1 and September 30. However, the deal only runs until June 3. On the easyJet website, it said: “For the next five days easyJet is offering customers up to 15 per cent off selected flights to and from the UK, giving Brits the opportunity to secure great value fares for their summer holidays. The promo applies to flights between 1 June 2026 and 30 September 2026, covering the peak summer season and school holidays.
“With flights available to a wide range of popular beach and city destinations across easyJet’s unrivalled European network ensuring there are options for all the family.” Going into more detail, it said: “Customers can book discounted fares between 8am on Friday 29 May until 8am on Wednesday 3 June 2026 via easyJet.com or the easyJet mobile app.”
The offer includes flights from airports across the UK, with thousands of seats available at reduced prices with fares starting from £19.99. Examples of some of the routes on offer include:
London Gatwick to Paris and Reus from £31.99
London Luton to Lyon from £22.99
London Southend to Geneva and Pisa from £19.99
Bristol to Malaga and Palma from £25.99
Manchester to Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Bordeaux, Paris, Copenhagen, Geneva, Hamburg, La Rochelle, Nice, Oslo, Prague, Rennes, and Zurich from £31.99
Liverpool to Amsterdam from £25.99, Barcelona, Split, Malaga, Palma, Naples and Nice from £25.99, Faro from £26.49
On top of this, easyJet holidays is also offering thousands of packages to popular city and beach destinations in Europe and North Africa this summer. “Customers can save £50 per person on beach holidays departing before 31 July 2027 when using code BEACH50, and £20 per person on city breaks departing before 31 August 2026 when using code CITIES20,” easyJet said.
Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK country manager, commented: “We know customers are always looking for great value when booking their summer holiday and with thousands of discounted seats available across our network, now is a great time to book a trip and enjoy Europe’s most popular destinations for less.
“To ensure people feel confident to book, we’ve launched our Book with Confidence Promise which guarantees that the cost of flights and package holidays will stay fixed after booking and we will not add fuel surcharges, protecting customers from increased fuel cost.
“We are operating as normal, not making cancellations and are looking forward to taking millions of people on their well-deserved holidays this summer.” For more information, visit teh easyJet website here.
I expected a no-frills Caribbean cruise – but instead found white-sand beaches, all-inclusive perks and surprisingly luxurious touches that felt far beyond the price tag
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Marella Cruises with TUI(Image: TUI)
Stretched out on the top deck of a catamaran, after a dip in impossibly clear water, I looked back at the white sands of an uninhabited Caribbean island that was ours for the day. This felt a long way from the so-called “budget” cruise I had imagined. For my first trip to the Caribbean, I boarded Marella Discovery, one of five ships in TUI’s all-inclusive fleet. Flights, transfers, food, drinks, and tips are included in the price. On paper, it promised value for money but in reality, it felt like far more. The Tropical Isles itinerary offers something different, even for seasoned Caribbean travellers. Instead of the usual tourist trail, we stopped at newer ports including Puerto Rico’s second city, Ponce, and the tiny island of Isla Catalina. After a short tender ride to shore we were welcomed with a live band and dancers before being waved to rows of neatly lined sunbeds, an all-inclusive beach bar and grills preparing a complimentary barbecue. Best known for its snorkelling, Isla Catalina’s crystal-clear waters looked too good to miss. I headed out on a catamaran excursion along the milky-white coast, swimming among shoals of tropical fish before drying off in the sun with fresh fruit as merengue music played.
By the time we returned, the smell of grilled seafood was drifting across the sand. Passengers helped themselves before retreating to shaded loungers – where there was little left to do but switch off and listen to the waves. Back on board, The Marella Discovery doesn’t try to compete with the Caribbean’s mega- cruise liners brimming with waterslides, waterfalls and ziplines. Instead, it offers something more relaxed – and for many, far more appealing. With nine restaurants, seven bars, two pools and a packed entertainment programme, there’s more to do than most passengers will manage in a week. Entertainment leans towards easy-going fun appealing to all ages with an outdoor cinema, mini golf and in the evening, West End-style shows to fill your day. Before my trip I’d been warned it was easy to get lost on a huge cruise ship, but the Discovery layout is very manageable and centred around a five storey atrium. Within a day, I had my bearings – starting with my cabin. For the week, I stayed in a recently refurbished balcony room. It was spacious, comfortable and thoughtfully designed, with plenty of storage. From summer 2026, Marella customers can upgrade further with premium Elemis products as part of the new “Suite Service Max” package – one of several add-ons available to elevate the experience.
Food is a big part of any cruise – and here it’s a major selling point. There are nine dining options included and three specialty restaurants for those wanting to really push the boat out. On the first night, I opted for one of the all inclusive options, Piccadilly’s, a British-style gastropub menu where the show-stopper was a rich, slow-cooked steak and ale pie. Over the week I worked my way through nearly every restaurant on board. Gallery 47, the Italian venue, was a favourite thanks to its varied and regular changing menu. While The Glass House, a casual poolside spot, was ideal for lunches, offering everything from pasta and roast chicken to salads and freshly baked cakes. One evening, I tried Kora La, the ship’s pan-Asian restaurant (at a cost of £18.95 for three courses). With fragrant curries and beautifully presented Vietnamese-style dishes, it was worth the extra cost and a popular choice among diners wishing to celebrate a special occasion.
Marella’s fun-filled and friendly vibes continued ashore with each stop on this relatively new itinerary. In Puerto Rico, I joined an excursion to El Yunque National Forest, swapping blue seas for lush rainforest, waterfalls and birdsong. Our helpful guide offered insight that brought the island to life, something you don’t always get when travelling independently. Back in capital city San Juan, I wandered the cobbled streets where pastel-coloured buildings led the way to lively squares.
I followed our guide’s recommendation for lunch at Café Manolín, a must for authentic food, the place was packed with locals and dock workers. I ordered the Mofongo, a Puerto Rican comfort dish made from mashed green plantains, garlic and steak. It was every bit as good as the queue suggested.
Later it was time to try another Puerto Rican export. At the Ron del Barrilito rum distillery, we swapped the city for something slower-paced. Set within the historic Hacienda Santa Ana, we were served up a welcome cocktail of choice in the stunning gardens listening to the blissful sounds of the birds. The experience included a tour of the ageing warehouses and a guided tasting of several rums, including one from a £700 bottle. Another standout was a visit to the stunning Magens Bay on the island of St Thomas. This horseshoe shaped beach delivered exactly what you’d hope for from the Caribbean – powdery sand, sparkling waters and turtles swimming just offshore. With the help of our local guide Derek, we were able to swim with the stunning creatures as they glided through the shallows.
The final stop, Ponce, offered a glimpse of a more authentic Puerto Rico on our return to another side of the island. With cruise ships only arriving in January 2026 it felt refreshingly un-touristy. I found colourful buildings, a relaxed square and latin music drifting from every bar. Throughout the trip, what stood out most was how easy everything felt – from the relaxed feel of the ship, the organised excursions to the stress-free all-inclusive drinks and dining. The atmosphere among fellow passengers was sociable and lively. The ship came alive in the evening with live shows and packed dancefloors – even into the small hours at Bar 11.
At the Broadway Show Lounge, live performances became my nightly post-dinner treat. Being a massive fan of the Fab Four, I could not miss Marella’s newest show Life Story: The Beatles, a theatrical retelling of their rise to fame. While the West-End to Broadway show, a celebration of a number of hit musicals, led to a roaring standing ovation after a finale of Les Miserables classics brought the house down. After feeling inspired, on our final day at sea I indulged in the Great Musicals Afternoon tea – a must for any theatre fan. The weekly event brings the West End to Marella cruises with dishes inspired by famous musicals, served alongside a live pianist and special performances – the perfect end to the holiday.
Marella Cruises has built a reputation on affordable and straightforward holidays – but this trip proved it delivers far more than the price tag suggests in comparison to its competitors.
If the aim is a stress-free, fun-filled Caribbean escape with fantastic food, easy island-hopping and a sociable atmosphere, Marella’s Tropical Isles itinerary is hard to beat. It’s ideal for first-time cruisers, and will also impress seasoned explorers thanks to its brand new port destinations that have something special to offer beyond a well-trodden tourist trail. And while it may be sold as a ‘budget’ cruise, it delivers an experience that feels far more premium – proving you don’t have to spend a fortune to experience the Caribbean in style.
Book the holiday
Marella Cruises offers a seven-night Tropical Islesround trip from La Romana, Dominican Republic on Marella Discovery from £1573 per person. Price based on two adults sharing a Deck 2/3 inside cabin on an all-inclusive basis. Includes flights from London Gatwick, 20kg of luggage per person, transfers, tips, and service charges. Find out more at tui.co.uk/cruise.
Holidaymakers could snap up bargain return flights from as low as £30 to the most popular holiday hotspots thanks to a little-known TUI Airways booking trick. The ‘insider trick’, revealed by TUI UK’s Commercial Director Chris Logan, reveals how travellers can snap up last-minute flights weeks before departure which include bargain breaks across Europe and even long-haul escapes for a fraction of the usual price.
On TUI’s dedicated ‘ Cheap Flights ’ page Brits can find seats on return routes which are regularly released at heavily reduced prices in the weeks and months leading up to departure. “If you’ve got a bit of flexibility, this is one of the easiest ways to find a great-value getaway. It’s not something everyone knows about, but checking our flights page regularly can uncover some genuinely low fares, especially closer to departure as we look to fill remaining seats,” said Chris Logan.
“We’re talking everything from quick European breaks to long-haul trips across the Caribbean, Mexico and Thailand. Because TUI Airways flies from 22 airports across the UK, it makes it easy to pick a date, pack a bag and fly from your closest regional airport.”
The best deals tend to be snapped up by those who can be flexible on dates and airports, with flights leaving from more than 22 UK airports. And it’s not just quick getaways. The deals can stretch from short breaks to two-week holidays or even longer.
Chris added: “For customers who don’t mind when or where they go, it can be a really simple way to save money on flights and land some of the best-value fares”.
Right now, Brits can find deals such as:
Seven nights in Palma de Mallorca with return flights from London Gatwick from £30 per person (1 July to 8 July)
Seven nights in Ibiza with return flights from London Stansted from £63 per person (1 July to 8 July)
Seven nights in Agadir, Morocco with return flights from Newcastle from £66 per person (8 June to 15 June)
Seven nights in Tenerife with return flights from London Gatwick from £82 per person (6 June July to 13 July)
14 nights in Cancun, Mexico with return flights from Manchester from £350 per person (7 June to 21 June)
14 nights in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic with return flights Manchester from £350 per person (6 June to 20 June)
Travellers looking to lock in value a little further ahead can also take advantage of TUI’s additional current flight offer. On TUI Airways bookings departing between July 2026 and April 2027, customers can receive £40 off per person which will be already applied to the flight price, offering even more ways to bring down the cost of a getaway.
Insiders at TUI have revealed a little-known booking trick that most Brits don’t know about, and it could help you save money on flights and even get returns from £30
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The booking trick could help you find return flights from £30(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
If you’re always on the lookout for cheap holiday deals, then you may want to take note of a little-known TUI trick revealed by insiders at the holiday giant.
In fact, according to TUI UK’s Commercial Director Chris Logan, it could help you snap up return flights from £30 to a number of holiday hotspots including Spain, Greece, Portugal and Turkey.
You’ll need to book just a few weeks before departure – and according to Chris it can work on long-haul holidays like the Caribbean, Mexico and Thailand too.
According to TUI insiders, the holiday giant’s dedicated ‘Cheap Flights‘ page is where the firm will release flights that have been heavily reduced. This can be because of a number of factors, such as if a plane isn’t full and the airline is trying to sell the remaining seats.
Chris explained: “If you’ve got a bit of flexibility, this is one of the easiest ways to find a great-value getaway. It’s not something everyone knows about, but checking our flights page regularly can uncover some genuinely low fares, especially closer to departure as we look to fill remaining seats.”
“We’re talking everything from quick European breaks to long-haul trips across the Caribbean, Mexico and Thailand. Because TUI Airways flies from 22 airports across the UK, it makes it easy to pick a date, pack a bag and fly from your closest regional airport.”
Obviously it only works if you can be a little flexible on your dates, and even destination; but given the summer holidays stretch over a six-week window, it could mean you could bag some tempting deals during the peak seasons too.
Chris added: “For customers who don’t mind when or where they go, it can be a really simple way to save money on flights and land some of the best-value fares”.
Unsurprisingly, the cheapest fares from £30 tend to fall outside of the school holiday dates, for example for flights in June or early July. However, if you’re tied to term time, you could still bag cheaper flights and potentially save on your holiday during the busier periods.
Of course the TUI hack isn’t the only way you could find some tempting holiday bargains. For example, Skyscanner has an ‘anywhere’ feature that lets you pick some dates, and then it simply shows you all of the cheap flight deals it can find for that window, which can be really useful if you’re not too set on a specific destination.
Meanwhile, easyJet has an ‘Inspire me’ tool where again you can enter the rough window you’d like to travel, the type of holiday you’re after (for example city break or beach holiday), and then it will show you some of the cheapest flights on offer to a number of destinations.
Have you been on an amazing holiday after finding an incredible deal? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
The ferry operator has urged passengers with trips booked to ‘plan ahead’ when travelling
The travel update was shared for bank holiday travellers (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
P&O Ferries says passengers need to ‘plan ahead’ if they are travelling over the bank holiday weekend. The popular ferry operator issued the alert for customers, as families across the country head off on their half-term holidays.
The travel company operates routes between Dover and Calais, Hull and Rotterdam, and Larne and Cairnryan. P&O Ferries shared the message for passengers in a post on X. Taking to @POferriesupdate, the travel update included essential advice for anyone travelling today (May 24).
P&O Ferries said: “Ahoy half-term heroes and Bank Holiday adventurers! The port will be busier than usual, so pack your bags with a travel pillow and those extra snacks you’ve got in the cupboard.”
The post explained: “We expect the ports to be busy today so please plan ahead and use our top tips.” In the travel advice, P&O Ferries said passengers should:
Check traffic and their route before setting off
Bring refreshments and snacks
Exercise pets before entering the port
Bring entertainment for children
Keep documents to hand and remove passports from cases
Families driving to the port should be aware that the bank holiday is set to be the busiest on the roads in two years, according to the RAC. Research suggests almost 19 million Brits are travelling over the long weekend, with 3.4 million journeys expected on Sunday and 3.1 million trips planned for Monday.
The RAC said: “Drivers looking to spend less time in the car should consider making their getaway outside of peak hours. According to transport analytics experts INRIX, the worst jams this weekend will be on the M1, M25, M5, M6.
“On Friday, the M25 anticlockwise will likely see the heaviest traffic from junction 10 to junction 6 around 4.45pm, as people clock off for the day. The same stretch of road could see a second spike on Saturday around lunchtime, with journey times more than twice as long than on a typical day.
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“On the same day, queues of 45 minutes are expected at midday on the M5 southbound between the RAC tower near Bristol and junction 23 for Bridgwater.” As a result, there will be an extra one million Brits on the road compared to the same weekend last year.
RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Sean Kimberlin said: “With the weather looking like it may improve, millions are planning to make a getaway trip over the bank holiday weekend.
“And the fact our research shows it’s set to be the busiest late May bank holiday since 2024 shows that even though fuel prices remain uncomfortably high, it takes a lot to stop drivers taking to the roads to make the most of a long weekend.”
Jet2 summer holidays travel update for anyone with flights booked – The Mirror
Need to know
Jet2 has issued a significant update for all passengers with flights booked this summer
The airline shared the news earlier this week(Image: Getty )
Need to know: Jet2 confirms summer flights will run as normal after securing fuel supply deals
Jet2 has confirmed all summer flights will operate as normal after securing improved fuel supply deals. The news will be welcomed by many passengers after reports of a possible ‘jet fuel shortage’ across Europe.
The budget airline announced today that fuel suppliers have increased production and additional imports are arriving from regions unaffected by Middle East conflicts. This follows negotiations that saw Jet2 ranked as the UK’s best-protected airline against rising fuel costs.
The carrier has pledged no additional charges will be added to existing bookings despite rising costs. Jet2 was among the first UK airlines to guarantee this protection for customers.
CEO Steve Heapy said: “We are in regular dialogue with our fuel suppliers, and the current picture is one of increased production and imports, meaning we continue to look ahead with confidence.”
The airline has also reaffirmed its commitment to swift refunds and flexibility for any cancellations. During Covid, Jet2 earned praise for its efficient customer refund process compared to industry rivals.
The positive fuel news comes after Jet2 was recognised as Europe’s second most fuel-efficient carrier in a major aviation emissions study.
The ferry operator issued an important reminder for any passengers with bookings
The port information applies to all passengers (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
DFDS has issued an important reminder to passengers travelling on its ferry services. Ahead of summer, many families are looking forward to their holidays and getting everything ready for their trips. For those making ferry crossings, the operator has issued a message about ‘travel documents’ to help ensure journeys are as smooth as possible.
Posting on social media, DFDS outlined advice for customers in a post on X. In the message, @DFDSLiveUpdates shared port information for passengers. It read: “Please have all travel documents and passports to hand and open at the photo page before arriving at booths.”
In the post, DFDS explained: “Keep your passports, booking confirmations, and any necessary ID easily accessible for check-in and border control.” As such, the guidance could be helpful to any customers with upcoming bookings.
As customers will know, they need to keep a record of their confirmation. They will also want to pack their luggage accordingly, ensuring they can easily access any documents they will need when travelling.
Passengers can find more information about the check-in and boarding process on the ferry operator’s website. The boarding advice states: “All passengers must present relevant documents upon arrival to the terminal for check-in.
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“These may include a valid passport, booking confirmation, documents for vehicle or pet travel, and/or other required documents, depending on the rules and regulations of country you are travelling to. Routine security checks of passengers, luggage and vehicles are carried out in all ports before you board the ship.”
DFDS also shares border control updates, including guidance on the UK eVisa and ETA. The website explains: “Travel requirements to the UK are changing.
“The UK is transitioning from physical immigration documents, such as biometric residence permits (BRPs), passports containing visa vignette stickers and ink stamps, or biometric residence cards (BRCs), to eVisas.
“If you hold a UK visa and use a physical immigration document to prove your rights, take action now by creating a UK Visas and Immigration account to access your eVisa: www.gov.uk/eVisa.
“If you already have an eVisa, ensure your travel information is up to date by notifying the UK Government about the passport you intend to use if it is not already linked to your eVisa account: www.gov.uk/update-uk-visas-immigration-account-details.
“Those who are visa-exempt for short visits to the UK, i.e. visits of up to six months, will still need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which is digital permission to travel.”
Martin Lewis has issued some tips about holiday spending(Image: ITV)
Consumer expert Martin Lewis has shared some tips for your holiday spending while you are abroad. He shared the key advice during his BBC podcast.
During a question and answer edition of the podcast, a query came in from a mum whose 18-year-old son is heading off on a lads’ holiday. She asked what the best spending card would be for him to take along, or whether she should simply give him cash instead. She explained that she was reluctant to give him a credit card as she wasn’t confident he would use it responsibly. However, the accommodation where he was staying required a £300 credit card deposit.
Top recommendation
In response, Mr Lewis said his top recommendation for cards she could consider was Chase. He explained: “Technically you have to open a bank account to get it, but you don’t need to switch bank account.
State Pensioners to face major tax change
“The Chase bank account is available for anyone aged 18 or older. It’s openable via an app. So effectively you can open this up, you put money in it that you want to spend and it gives you the same near-perfect rate that the bank gets when you spend, because it doesn’t add a non-sterling exchange rate fee.
“So I think that’s a really simple option. It’s a debit card, it doesn’t have an overdraft facility. It doesn’t do a hard credit check, it just does an ID check and it doesn’t affect his credit-worthiness.”
Another card he recommended was the Revolut pre-payment card, where you load the card with the amount you wish to spend. Regarding the credit card deposit for accommodation, Mr Lewis said this is a common requirement, frequently being necessary when hiring a car abroad too.
He explained that if a deposit needs to be paid on a credit card, this could prove tricky for an 18 year old as they may not pass the credit check. Mr Lewis suggested that perhaps the mum could contact the company and pay the deposit on her son’s behalf.
Big danger
Mr Lewis issued an additional warning for young holidaymakers. He said: “One of the biggest dangers for finances and young people is drinking. The problem when we drink is we lose all our sense of control.
“So it’s very difficult what you advise young people. Do you tell them take cash out so you’ve only got the amount you can spend on that day. That keeps you to a budget.
“But then it does wrong, they haven’t got any money left and they can’t get back to where they need to go, which can be dangerous.
“Or do you have a card that has an unlimited spending facility on it. It’s quite a difficult one at that age. The best thing is to be sensible and not drink too much.”
Passengers were told to bring their own food and drinks on board after a fire caused a supply disruption
13:36, 15 May 2026Updated 14:43, 15 May 2026
Passengers have been told what they can expect over the coming days(Image: Getty )
Jet2 has released a fresh update for passengers after many were informed that certain services would be unavailable on their flights. Earlier this week, it emerged that Jet2 had suspended food and drink services and in-flight retail for passengers on selected routes.
At the time, the airline stated it was dealing with an ‘operational issue’ that was ‘outside its control’. The disruption was reportedly triggered by a major supply chain disruption following a fire at Jet2‘s Retail Operations Centre in Middlewich.
The warehouse is reportedly responsible for stocking all catering carts. Consequently, the airline was forced to suspend all food, drink, and Jet2shop retail services on the affected flights.
This meant some passengers were unable to purchase snacks, soft drinks, alcohol, hot beverages, or duty-free items from the cabin trolley. Pre-booked meals were scrapped, and those who had paid in advance for a hot meal or snack deal did not receive their order.
In a fresh update, sent to the Liverpool Echo today (May 15), a Jet2 spokesperson said: “Due to an operational issue outside of our control, there was limited food and drink available to buy on board on Sunday, May 10. We are pleased to say that, since then, customers have been continuing to enjoy our award-winning flights and can choose from a wide selection of food and drink onboard.”
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They added: “Our full in-flight retail and food and drink offering will be completely back to normal in the coming days.” Jet2 has also confirmed it is automatically processing refunds for all pre-booked catering back to the original payment method.
While the problem persisted, travellers were advised to bring their own food, drinks and snacks on board, after clearing airport security. However, passengers are prohibited from bringing hot coffee, tea, or hot food from the airport terminal onto the plane. A statement on the Jet2 website states: “You can’t bring hot food or hot drinks onboard our planes for safety reasons.”
At the time, many people turned to social media to find out more about the ‘operational issue’ and to alert fellow passengers. On X, one passenger with the username @BigDogStaff wrote: “@Jet2tweets just had an email and a text message to say there will be no food or drinks available for our five hour flight.”
Jet2 responded: “Hi there, we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused by our food and drink services and in-flight retail by unavailable on your flight. Sadly, this is due to an operational issue outside our control. (1/2).”
The airline went on to say: “You are welcome to bring snacks and soft drinks purchased in the terminal onboard with you, but for safety reasons, hot drinks cannot be brought on board. If you have any further questions, feel free to let us know. ^Ellie (2/2).” On the Facebook group, Jet2.Com and Jet2holidays Customer Service and Support, a user asked: “What is happening with no food or drink on Jet2 planes? Just had an email about no food or drink on the planes tomorrow, any idea what happening?”
In the comments, one person wrote: “Been on lots of posts – supply issues due to a fire in a warehouse apparently- just get something in the airport to take on board with you.” Another added: “Just arrived in Greece via Jet2, we pre-ordered hot food but got an email saying it was limited. There was no food, drinks, snacks, and no duty-free trolley, all we got was water.”
A third commented: “Someone I know is flying tomorrow, and they were told this evening that there would be no food, including pre-booked. Maybe it depends on the airport or route.”
In a separate Facebook post, another user warned: “Just a heads up. A friend who is travelling from Leeds tonight has received this. So it may be the same on the return journey.” They shared a screenshot of what appears to be a text message from Jet2.
The message reads: “Due to an operational issue outside of our control, there will be no food, drink or Jet2shop available to buy on board your flight. Unfortunately, this also means that any pre-booked food or drink items will not be available, and we will automatically arrange any refunds for these.
“You are welcome to bring snacks and soft drinks purchased in the terminal (after security) on the flight with you, but for safety reasons, hot drinks cannot be brought on board. We are very sorry for any disappointment this may cause.”
A separate Facebook post by UK travel agency Camel Travel states: “Heads up for those flying with Jet2 at the moment. A fire at Jet2’s Retail Operations Centre in Middlewich on Wednesday has impacted the availability of food and drinks on some flights.”
What seems to be a screenshot of an email sent by Jet2 is also featured. It states: “We will process the refund right away to the payment card used when you booked – but like all refunds these days, it could take three to five working days for the funds to reach you. We’re sorry if you don’t receive any pre-booked items. Our friendly Cabin Crew are looking forward to welcoming you on board and will ensure you have a lovely flight.”
The holidaymaker revealed how he enjoyed a week-long holiday at a budget price
The traveller enjoyed a holiday in Mexico (Image: Getty)
A social media user has wowed travel fans after sharing how much he spent on a week’s holiday in Mexico. The holidaymaker explained his bargain travel hack in a TikTok post shared under the username @Byseyi.
In the viral video, Byseyi revealed he spent £360 per person on a last-minute holiday to Mexico. He said: “So this is one travel tip that I don’t really hear that many people talk about. And this is actually how me and my wife travelled to Mexico for a week for around £360 per person, and that’s flights and accommodation.”
The TikTok creator claims: “So if you’re able to travel last-minute, go and look at TUI’s last-minute flight deals on the flight section of their website. Because what happens is they’re trying to get rid of some of these last-minute flights and not have empty seats going. So we ended up booking a flight for two people to go to Cancun, Mexico, for £538 for both of us.
“Managed to find some good accommodation in Tulum that was cheap for £185. And even right now, if you go on the website, you’ll see a flight to the Dominican Republic for £384 if you’re able to travel in the month of May.
“So it’s really just for those people, maybe you had a holiday that got cancelled and you’re trying to plan a new thing, or you have the flexibility to just travel last minute. So it doesn’t apply to everyone, but for those that it can work for, you can get something good for cheap.”
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The video gained over 115k views and 14k likes on TikTok. Replying to the video, a viewer said: “Thanks for reminding me being fully remote is a win.” A second comment read: “A digital nomads dream lol …let me go check out TUI.” A third social media user wrote: “Yep! TUI got me to Aruba for £196 return, directttt! best!”
Someone else shared: “I always like these deals but they don’t work for people who like to explore more than one city in a country. But I think it’s great when you are simply looking for anywhere to go to.”
Another response said: “How close to the departure date did you book?” The travel lover replied: “Booked on the 23rd of Feb, flew out 3rd of March.”
Passengers looking for last-minute flights can browse deals on TUI’s website, where there’s a section dedicated to cheap flights. Customers can filter their search by departure date, with options ranging from within seven days to three months. Alternatively, customers planning further ahead can refine their search by month.
Chris Logan, Commercial Director at TUI UK and Ireland, said: “If you’ve got a bit of flexibility, our last-minute flight deals can be a brilliant way to grab a great-value getaway. Flying from over 20 airports across the UK, making it easy to pick a date, pack a bag and set off from a nearby airport. There’s a great choice of destinations on offer too – from European favourites like Spain and Greece, to long-haul escapes across the Caribbean, including Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, as well as Florida.
“These direct flights include 10kg of hand luggage as standard, with the option to add more, upgrade for extra space or enjoy a more premium travel experience. It’s always worth checking back – you might find something that gets you away sooner than you think.”
The bundle includes three suitcases in different sizes, designed to cover everything from short weekend breaks to longer holidays abroad
16:25, 12 May 2026Updated 16:27, 12 May 2026
Home Bargains has a growing selection of deals on homeware, furnishings and travel(Image: Home Bargains)
Holidaymakers hoping to upgrade their luggage without spending a fortune might want to pop into Home Bargains before jetting off on their next summer getaway. The discount retailer has quietly slashed the price of a travel essential by nearly £90, and it’s being hailed as “perfect for every trip”.
Home Bargains has cut the price of the Overlow Suitcase Set of 3, which normally sells for £149.99, down to a bargain £59.99. The set comprises three suitcases in varying sizes, catering for everything from quick weekend escapes to extended holidays overseas.
According to the product listing, each case is crafted from lightweight ABS material with a hard-shell construction designed to offer durability while minimising weight. The product description, available on the Home Bargains website, reads: “Travel smart with the Overlow Suitcase Set of 3 in sleek black – lightweight, durable ABS material with smooth 4-wheel glide for effortless airport navigation. Perfect for every trip, whether you pack light or heavy.
“Modern Suitcase. Lightweight. Whether you pack light or travel heavy, we’ve got you covered! The smooth 4-wheel glide makes navigating airports effortless, while the strong yet lightweight material ensures durability without adding extra weight.”
The largest case measures 70 x 48 x 29cm, while the medium and cabin sizes come in at 60 x 41 x 26cm and 50 x 35 x 20cm respectively. All three cases are designed to stack inside one another for convenient storage when not being used.
Home Bargains describes the set as “perfect for any trip”, emphasising its lightweight construction and smooth-rolling wheels as standout features designed to reduce travel hassle. Thanks to the current discount, shoppers can now save an impressive 60 per cent, with comparable sets elsewhere carrying significantly steeper price tags.
Budget-friendly suitcase sets such as this have grown increasingly sought-after amongst travellers seeking to reduce costs before holidays, especially as travel demand continues climbing during peak booking seasons. Retailers have noted strong appetite for affordable luggage bundles as families and solo travellers hunt for value-focused alternatives.
The set is also stocked in other colours including grey and navy through the same retailer, with prices staying uniform across the collection while stocks remain available. Shoppers keen on the offer can locate further information, including home delivery arrangements, via the Home Bargains website.
Budget airlines have spoken amid warnings that the UK faces greater exposure to jet fuel shortages due to the Middle East conflict
05:41, 02 May 2026Updated 07:16, 02 May 2026
Travellers have been concerned at the possibility for disruption this summer due to the continuing Middle East crisis(Image: Getty Images)
Following warnings from a leading analyst over potential jet fuel shortages that could hit the UK during the summer, Europe’s biggest budget airlines have stated they remain confident in their ability to keep flights running as normal throughout the peak holiday season.
Ano Kuhanathan, head of corporate research at insurer Allianz, has warned that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz leaves Britain considerably more exposed than other European countries to supply disruptions. Roughly three quarters of Europe’s jet fuel comes from the Middle East and passes through the vital shipping lane.
He explained: “The UK is Europe’s most structurally exposed market to jet fuel shortages, relying heavily on imports to meet aviation demand and running persistent refining kerosene deficit, leaving it particularly vulnerable to supply shocks.”
Despite these concerns, senior figures at Britain’s top budget airlines have voiced confidence in their capacity to deliver a full flight schedule throughout the summer.
A spokesperson for Jet2 said: “We remain in continual dialogue with our fuel suppliers, as is standard practice. Based on the conversations we have been having, we see no reason not to look forward to operating our scheduled programme of flights and holidays as normal.”
The announcement comes in the wake of a separate warning from Heathrow airport on Wednesday, which stated it anticipates passenger numbers for the remainder of the year to be impacted by the ongoing situation in the Middle East. Laura Lindsay, spokesperson for the price-comparison site Skyscanner, suggested that travel demand is changing rather than vanishing. She told The Independent’s daily travel podcast: “We know that people do still want to get away. It may be reduced internationally and increased domestically, for example.”
Jet2 has revealed that holidaymakers are increasingly making last-minute bookings since the outbreak of the Iran conflict amid growing concerns over the impact of the war and fears surrounding jet fuel supply.
The company said summer passenger bookings to date are up 6.2% thanks to expansion across its airline and package holiday operations, but in a sign of rising unease among travellers, it disclosed that the “booking profile has become increasingly close to departure” due to the Middle East conflict.
It stated it is well shielded from the fuel cost surge triggered by the Iran war for the crucial summer period, adding it is “maintaining frequent dialogue with our fuel suppliers and airport partners on fuel supply”.
Michael O’Leary, Ryanair’s chief executive, said that “the risk of a supply disruption is receding”, with no disruption risk before the end of June. However, he pointed out that the UK faces greater vulnerability compared to other major nations. EasyJet has confirmed it intends to run “a full schedule across its network”. Garry Wilson, chief executive of easyJet Holidays, said: “Our operations remain unaffected, so customers can be confident that not only will their holiday go ahead as planned, but there will be no surprise extra payments.”
Yvonne Moynihan, managing director of Wizz Air UK, said: “We have just launched our biggest-ever network from the UK and in particular from Luton.
“Despite the challenging geopolitical crisis, business goes on as usual. In airlines, we are well used to crises, so we are resilient and we’re well adapted.
“For low-cost airlines like Wizz in the UK, we don’t see any shortage of fuel.”
The airline boss explained that if a shortage were to emerge in the UK, Wizz Air could source fuel from alternative countries – a tactic known as “tankering”.
“We can take more fuel than is required in those destinations,” she said. “We can even fly to other countries and and pit-stop, if you will, if we need additional fuel
“But we’re not seeing an Armageddon situation. We have fuel supply. We have other mechanisms for uplifting fuel.” Wizz Air is Europe’s third-largest budget airline, behind Ryanair and easyJet.
Jet2, easyJet and TUI have all committed to not imposing any additional charges on passengers for fuel price increases.
The popular airline offered reassurance to passengers in a message shared on social media
The popular airline shared a message reassuring passengers(Image: Getty)
Jet2 has offered reassurance to passengers worried about passport control queues at Spanish airports. In recent weeks, British travellers visiting the popular destination have reported long queues following the rollout of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System.
In response, the airport authority, AENA, has reportedly directed staff to take all possible measures to streamline the process and reduce waiting times. In light of the border control queues, passengers have also been contacting airlines on social media to find out what to do in the worst-case scenario.
For instance, a Jet2 customer recently contacted the travel firm on X to ask for advice. @Jet2tweets often offers assistance to Jet2.com and Jet2holidays passengers on social media.
In a post shared on April 28, a passenger named Laura wrote: “With the crazy queues at Spanish airports to get through passport control, can you guarantee that I won’t miss my transfer bus? Thanks.”
In response, Jet2 said: “Hi Laura, any congestion caused by passport control our airport team will be aware off and will make sure there is a plan in place, so customer do not miss their transfers. Thanks, Gemma.”
Sharing a further message, Laura continued: “Thanks Gemma. Last time it took nearly 3 hours to get through – I’m hoping there won’t be any issues even if it’s that long?” Jet2 replied: “Rest assured our team will be aware of any congestion and plans will be in place.”
Passengers with transfers can find more information about the service on the Jet2holidays website, with transfers to and from hotels included with all Jet2holidays. The website says: “You’ll be met at the airport by our friendly Red Team who’ll then show you to your coach. Once onboard, you’ll be informed whether you are the first, second or third stop.
“Coach transfer information will be available in the Jet2 app when you land in your destination. We’ll also send it by SMS. Whether you have a coach, private or adapted transfer, our friendly Red Team will be on hand to guide you and help you on your way.”
The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) requires visitors from non-member countries such as the UK to have their fingerprints recorded and a photograph captured to enter the Schengen Area, which comprises 29 European countries, predominantly within the EU. While the new system was initially introduced in October, it became fully operational on April 10, 2026.
