The Personal Travel Consultants in Partnership with Blue Bay Travel (PTCs) has reported a surge in late bookings for April and May* as well as a shift towards regional airport departures.
Late bookings have significantly increased by 30% in April and May compared to February and March of this year. The rise in late bookings may be due to holidaymakers waiting for funds to become available before committing to a trip. It could also signify a shift in mentality, post-pandemic, whereby travellers are becoming more spontaneous and confident regarding last-minute travel decisions.
Abbie Heaton, Sales Manager for Blue Bay Travel’s Personal Travel Consultants, reports that many travellers are turning to the Personal Travel Consultants for assistance in finding these last-minute deals: “We’re not sure whether the bank holidays have played a role in the recent peak in bookings, but we feel confident that the cost-of-living crisis is causing a surge in the late booking market.” says Heaton.
Heaton continues: “Late bookers often require a more personalised service, and our consultants are perfectly placed to meet the needs of these clients. As people become more comfortable with long-haul travel again and, as flight prices decrease, we are also seeing an uptick in demand for further afield destinations.
“Overall this year regional airports are also proving more popular. 40% of the bookings taken in April and May are flying from Birmingham and Manchester, with London Heathrow and London Gatwick making up the majority of remaining departures. The reduction in flight routes has meant holidaymakers are naturally considering alternative options but regional airports often offer a more convenient and fluid experience with shorter wait times, easier parking, and less congestion. Notwithstanding the fact the pricing is really competitive.”
According to Heaton, while there has been a trend towards late bookings, there are exceptions, with bookings coming in for 2024 and even 2025 to Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Heaton speculates that this may be holidaymakers hoping to lock in current pricing.
Heaton concludes: “Holidaymakers may book last minute for a variety of reasons. Many believe they will be able to take advantage of offers or promotions. Additionally, with the inclement weather we’ve all experienced during May some travellers may simply have given up on waiting for the UK sun to come out and decided to get away instead. Bookings continue to endure in June despite forecast heatwaves so perhaps the changeable weather of the UK combined with our customers desire to experience new cultures is creating an increased motivation to book.”
“The trends we became so familiar with pre-pandemic now no longer exist. Being able to pivot to changing consumer demand is vital for success and we’re certainly teaching our agents how to leverage these lates. We’re delighted to see the increase in interest – long may it continue!”
