Budget-Friendly Summer Holiday Destinations: Escaping the Peak Season Price Surge
Summer holidays, a time for family fun and relaxation, often come with a hefty price tag. Flights and accommodation costs tend to skyrocket during peak season, leaving families searching for ways to avoid breaking the bank. New research from Which? offers a glimmer of hope, revealing that substantial savings can be achieved by carefully selecting your destination. The consumer watchdog’s analysis of over 5,500 package holidays from major UK tour operators reveals several surprisingly affordable options for August getaways.
Turkey and Morocco emerge as champions of affordability, offering sun-soaked escapes without the premium price. The Dalaman region of Turkey takes the top spot, averaging £859 per person for a seven-night package in August. The allure of Olu Deniz, with its breathtaking Blue Lagoon, also comes at a remarkably reasonable average price of £834pp. Morocco’s Agadir, a coastal gem nestled near the Anti-Atlas mountains, follows closely behind with an average package price of £889pp. Its golden sand beaches and vibrant café culture promise a memorable experience without emptying your wallet.
Bulgaria’s Bourgas region secures third place on the affordability list, with seven-night packages averaging £904pp. This consistently budget-friendly destination offers a compelling alternative to pricier European hotspots. Other destinations that defy the peak season price surge include the Venetian Riviera in Italy, the Greek island of Corfu, and Spain’s Costa Brava. All three promise a week of sun and exploration for under £1,000pp.
A surprising contender in the budget-friendly category is Tuscany, the heart of Italy’s rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. Despite its reputation for elegance and charm, a week’s stay in Tuscany averages a surprisingly reasonable £1,034pp in August. This unexpected affordability opens doors for families seeking a more culturally immersive experience without sacrificing their budget.
For families seeking further cost control, all-inclusive packages offer a predictable and often economical option. Which?’s analysis highlights Spain’s Costa Blanca as a prime example, with average all-inclusive packages costing £1,113pp in August. The Canary Islands, renowned for their year-round sunshine, also offer attractive all-inclusive deals. Fuerteventura, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria boast average August prices of £1,146pp, £1,189pp, and £1,268pp, respectively, making them appealing choices for budget-conscious travellers.
Other wallet-friendly all-inclusive options include Dalaman in Turkey, Bourgas in Bulgaria, Zante in Greece, and Mallorca in Spain. For nature enthusiasts, the Portuguese island of Madeira offers scenic walks and wildlife-spotting opportunities within all-inclusive packages averaging around £1,346pp in August.
The key takeaway from Which?’s research is that families can enjoy a fulfilling and affordable summer holiday even during peak season by strategically choosing their destination. By venturing beyond the typical tourist traps and exploring lesser-known gems like Dalaman, Agadir, and Bourgas, families can unlock significant savings without compromising on the quality of their holiday experience. Early booking is also advised to secure the best prices and widest availability. With a little research and flexibility, families can create lasting summer memories without the financial strain.
