Whatever time of year you decide to book annual leave or block out a few weeks for the annual family or friends getaway, those magical days off are what makes the daily grind worth the effort.
Fresh data from Barclays shows that many UK consumers are increasingly favouring experiences over buying things, with 57 per cent choosing to spend disposable income on experiences instead of material possessions. The research predicts that the average person is set to spend £3,322 in the ‘Experience Economy’ between June and September 2024, with almost half of that sum used on foreign holidays and staycations.
The way we travel has shifted over the last few years for two major reasons: the pandemic and the tangible effects of climate change. While the former revealed the sweet, accessible beauty of a UK staycation, the latter has pushed many to be more mindful when making holiday plans.
While long-haul destinations will always stoke wanderlust and hold a desire to explore new landscapes, food and cultures, short-haul escapes – especially ones that are reached using greener road or rail routes – mean you can squeeze a guilt-free break into a weekend without eating up too much of your holiday allowance.
When is the best time to book a holiday?
Holiday dates and prices wax and wane over the year, with prices spiking over the school holidays, Christmas break, Easter and the eight Bank Holidays that England and Wales enjoy. If you’re keeping an eye on your budget, the best time to travel is outside of these popular dates, and avoid Friday departures where possible.
Whether you’re aching to watch the sunrise in a new time zone or fancy checking into a chic B&B right here in the UK, there are plenty of travel and hotel offers that will have you reaching for your credit card. We’ll keep you tuned into the best of them right here on this page, updated every month.
Scroll on for the best deals for July to book right now