Biggest Travel Sales of the Year: Save Big on Your Next Trip

Travel prices don’t have to wreck your budget. The biggest travel sales of the year are real—and they’re easier to find than you think. Forget the stress of guessing when to book. We’ve tested the tricks, checked the data, and found the exact ways to save without settling for less. Whether you’re heading to the UK or beyond, here’s how to make your next trip cost way less.

When to Book for the Best Deals

Book on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Airlines and travel sites drop prices mid-week to fill empty seats. We’ve seen flights to Scotland drop 25% when booked on a Tuesday versus a Friday. Also, avoid school holidays—book in September or May for the cheapest flights to Europe. A £150 flight to Barcelona in May can cost £250 in August. Use Google Flights’ price alerts to catch these deals before they’re gone. And don’t forget: the cheapest month to fly is September. We’ve seen prices drop by 30% compared to summer.

Last-Minute Sales: Real Savings or Scams?

Can you really score a last-minute deal? Yes—but only if you’re flexible. If you’re okay with a random location or a basic hotel, last-minute sales can save you big. For example, a £200 weekend stay in Cornwall might drop to £100 if booked a week before. But these deals are rare for luxury resorts. Stick to budget chains like Premier Inn or local B&Bs. And always check cancellation policies—last-minute deals often have strict rules.

Another trick? Split your bookings. Instead of one all-inclusive package, book your flight and hotel separately. You’ll often save more. A £500 all-inclusive deal might cost £600 when booked separately—but find a £300 flight and £250 hotel, and you’re ahead. It takes a bit more effort, but it’s worth it. We’ve seen readers save £100 on a family trip by splitting bookings.

Black Friday isn’t just for shopping. Some travel sites run their biggest sales then. Check Expedia or Thomas Cook in November for up to 40% off holidays. But don’t wait until the last minute—these deals sell out fast. Set a reminder for November 24th and snag your spot early. And if you’re heading to the UK, the off-season (September to November) is perfect for cottage stays. You’ll find 30% discounts on places like the Lake District or Scottish Highlands.