Half-Term Flights Could Cost A Pretty Penny

With the October half-term fast approaching, no doubt families everywhere are starting to think about what to do to keep the kids occupied – and a holiday abroad will certainly be on the minds of many.

But you may want to consider a staycation instead of going overseas, as flights are proving to be a lot more expensive for that week compared to the week before, according to new analysis from FairFX.

Planning ahead where holidays are concerned could be one way to get around the huge price hikes, with the data showing that the average flight cost has risen by £102 over the school break.

If, for example, you wanted to fly from Manchester to Berlin, you’ll find that return flights have climbed by 295 per cent (or £130 per person) when flying out at the start of half-term, compared to the weekend before. And flights between Bristol and Rhodes went up by £331 per person.

CEO of FairFX Ian Strafford-Taylor explained that overseas trips do typically cost more during the school holidays because of supply and demand, but he went on to describe some of the price increases families are seeing this year as “downright scandalous”.

He further advised would-be holidaymakers keen to go abroad in a few weeks’ time to keep an eye on the pound if they want to get more bang for their buck, as well as monitoring travel restrictions, as the situation regarding covid can change quickly.

“Many families will be wanting to keep children in school after so much classroom time was missed at the start of the year, but in doing so, are facing hundreds of pounds being added to the cost of their holidays.

“Holidaymakers are having to contend with a triple-threat at the moment thanks to the changing list of countries exempt from quarantine rules, and the impact covid-19 and Brexit negotiations are having on the strength of the pound. To add unfair flight hikes to the list means people are being hit hard from all directions,” Mr Strafford-Taylor was quoted by Your Money as saying.

A staycation may be a better idea if you don’t want to break the bank this year – and the good news is that the UK has a huge amount to offer by way of amazing holiday ideas, all right on your doorstep and without a hefty price tag.

The New Forest National Park, for example, is a great place to visit for a breath of fresh air, with stunning colours of autumn to be seen everywhere. There’s even Peppa Pig World on your doorstep, sure to keep the kids well amused.

Or what about the Peak District and Mount Cook for a spot of adventure, caving and climbing with the whole family? Just do a bit of research and you’re sure to find a UK staycation that suits you all right down to the ground.

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