Demand for summer travel is growing despite continued uncertainty over Covid travel restrictions with bookings booming from May onwards - and holidays predicted to sell-out when the nation is allowed to jet away again.
Data shows that 70 per cent of holiday bookings made this February are for May onwards, compared to the same time last year (26 per cent), illustrating the growing confidence and demand for summer travel.
The study by Holiday Extras – specialist in add-ons such as airport parking, airport hotels, lounges and travel insurance – found the top six destinations are Spain, Greece, USA, UAE, Italy and Turkey.
This follows separate research by the travel brand that revealed between 45-50 per cent of holidaymakers were delaying a decision as to when they would travel again.
In the same poll, when people who had flown from UK airports in the last two years were asked who of them aimed to travel overseas in the Easter break or before – and 27 per cent of travellers confirmed they would.
Seamus McCauley, head of communications at Holiday Extras, said: “Since the start of the Covid crisis, we’ve asked over 15,000 UK holidaymakers who travelled in 2019 or 2020, when they plan to fly again.
"Our latest findings reveal that four-fifths are raring to go on holiday, showing clearly that the demand and confidence in travel is there, and as soon as the holidays and flights are available to book.
"We’re expecting this summer to sell out as soon as there’s clarity from the government on when people can go - perhaps even earlier should the clarity come sooner.
"So, if you know when you’re going, book ahead."
