With the UK half-term break just around the corner, a travel expert has shared the exact date and time parents should book a last-minute trip – without breaking the bank.
While it might feel as though time is running out, travel booking experts have assured there is still a sweet spot to secure flights at an affordable cost just in time for the school holiday, which runs from 16 February to 20 February.
Chris Bradshaw, director and travel booking expert at AttractionTickets.com, says: ‘It’s a common misconception that earlier always equals cheaper.
‘In reality, airlines continuously adjust fares based on demand, and savvy travellers can benefit from those fluctuations, even just one or two weeks ahead.
‘There’s still time to save on last-minute half-term travel if you know when to book.’
According to the expert, for maximum savings, the ideal day to book a last-minute half-term break is Sunday, 8 February.
By analysing historical pricing patterns and industry travel reports, Sunday has been found to be the the most cost-effective day of the week to book a trip.
Many airlines often release discounted fares and adjust inventory over the weekend, meaning travellers can save up to 23 per cent on Sundays compared to Fridays.
Travel expert Chris Bradshaw has shared the exact date and time parents should book a last-minute trip for the best price (stock image)
In addition, holidaymakers are urged to book flights within a window of eight to 23 days before jetting off, as this window offers some of the most competitive prices for international travel, especially when flying to places like Florida.
The best time of the day to snag low fares is in the early morning, with flights generally being more affordable at around 6am, local time.
This is due to airlines releasing fresh fares for the day before search traffic spikes.
Chris also advises travellers to avoid booking your next holiday on Fridays, as prices typically surge due to business travel and higher demand.
He adds: ‘Taking all these factors into consideration, Sunday 8 February falls perfectly in alignment, making this the optimal date to give you the best chance of securing those last-minute affordable family holiday bookings ahead of this half-term.’
It comes after research revealed the UK’s busiest airports that are best equipped for travelling with children.
Airport Parking and Hotels (APH.com) assessed 10 major UK airports, comparing facilities such as play spaces, pushchair rules, baby care facilities, food options and family-friendly security, to help ensure a stress-free airport experience.
While Heathrow Airport offers ‘Stay & Play’ soft-play areas in every terminal, Manchester Airport has its ‘Little Flyers’ play zone in Terminal 1, alongside baby facilities across all terminals.
Flights are typically more affordable at 6am on Sundays – saving travellers up to 23 per cent on Sundays compared to Fridays
Gatwick provides a free play area after security in the North Terminal, Birmingham has 24-hour Sky Zone play areas near Gates 1-20, and Bristol Airport offers a bookable Sensory Room for neurodivergent passengers.
Pushchair policies can also differ by airport.
Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and Stansted allow pushchairs through security and to the gate, while Luton offers free loan pushchairs, and Birmingham provides them for a refundable deposit.
Nick Caunter, Managing Director of APH.com, said: ‘February half term is one of the busiest times of year for family travel, and the right facilities can make a real difference to how smoothly a journey begins.’
