Britons Seek Late-Season Bargains as Travel Patterns Shift

A combination of extreme weather events across Europe, ongoing global conflicts, and a new EU entry system has altered European travel dynamics this summer. Many Britons have opted for domestic 'staycation' holidays, with interest up 20% year-on-year according to Booking.com. However, warmer weather has also extended the traditional summer season, encouraging later bookings and last-minute deals.

Research from Loveholidays indicates a 26% year-on-year increase in next-day holiday bookings, with bookings made within two days of departure also up by 19%. Lastminute.com data suggests holidaymakers can save up to £1,000 by booking outside of peak season.

Tunisia is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with a 19% surge in demand according to First Choice. September temperatures ranging from 19-29C (67-84F) offer a more comfortable climate for exploring the capital Tunis, the ruins of Carthage, and local cuisine. Seven-night all-inclusive stays at the Golden Tulip President Hammamet start from £633 per person, including flights from Gatwick.

Cyprus is also seeing a delayed summer season, with prices significantly reduced after an unsteady start to the year attributed to geopolitical tensions. Chris Webber of TravelSupermarket noted that the average seven-night package is down by as much as £250 per person year-on-year. With ten hours of daily sunshine and September temperatures between 29-31C (84-88F), Cyprus offers a late-season getaway. A seven-night all-inclusive stay at the Kefalos Damon Hotel Apartments is available from £478 per person, including return flights.

In Spain, easyJet Holidays has reported a 10% increase in last-minute trips to Alicante compared to 2025, a shift from the usual preference for the Costa del Sol. The region offers medieval fortresses, promenades, and food markets, with September weather featuring highs of 28C (82F). Seven nights room-only at the Hotel Bonalba Alicante, including transfers, starts from £473 per person.

Turkey has seen a 21% rise in holiday interest, according to British Airways, potentially influenced by the film 'The Odyssey'. Fethiye, on the Turquoise Coast, offers a warm September with temperatures around 25C (77F) and minimal rain. The area is suitable for active holidays along the Lycian Way or relaxation on beaches like the Blue Lagoon. Seven nights all-inclusive at Club Tuana Fethiye starts from £715 per person, including return flights from Gatwick.

Majorca's Balearic Isles are experiencing a dip in temperatures to a more manageable 26-29C (79-84F) in September, following intense summer heatwaves. The island offers secluded coves, Moorish ruins, and nightlife in Palma, alongside cultural events such as the Festa des Vermar grape harvest festival. Seven nights all-inclusive at AluaSun Cala Antena starts from £459 per person, including return flights from Stansted.

Late-season cruising also presents opportunities for bargains. Cunard is offering seven-night sailings with Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux, featuring live cooking demonstrations and tasting menus, with prices from £1,459 per person for a sailing to Norway. Alternatively, a seven-night Mediterranean tour of the Greek islands, Italy, and Turkey is available from £1,423 per person.