Six million holiday bookings expected this month

The flurry of bookings is anticipated as consumers take advantage of airline and tour operator discounts.

Travel Insurance News - 08/01/2009

<< ABTA concerned about rise in uninsured travellers | Travel News | TUI predicting more travel operator collapses >>

As many as 200,000 UK consumers are taking the gloomy economy in stride and booking their summer holidays early to take advantage of substantial discounts.

Airlines and travel operators are attempting to lure customers with discounted airfares, special ‘two-for-one’ offers and free deals for families travelling with children.

Families booking early this year stand to save up to hundreds of pounds on their annual summer holiday.

The Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA) has commented: "Our research has shown that the last thing people give up is their holiday and there are some extraordinary deals out there at the moment. January is a big month and with all these offers it looks like being a busy month."

For travel booked from now through 16 February, Thomas Cook is offering a 10 per cent discount off the price of all holidays. First Choice is featuring savings of up to £200 off bookings for summer 2009 holidays, as well as thousands of free child places and low deposits. They are also waiving all flight supplements during the early booking period.

Direct Holidays is currently offering savings of nearly £100 per person on Fuerteventura flight and hotel and flight packages.

<< ABTA concerned about rise in uninsured travellers | Travel News | TUI predicting more travel operator collapses >>