Louisa Sherlock
Associate Editor'Sunshine Saturday' is the most popular day to book a holiday … here’s how (and where) to bag a good deal
Dreaming of a hot getaway with the kids? Yep, us too.
And with January 7 traditionally being the most popular day to book a break, we’re not the only ones.
But where are the top destinations to go in 2023, when should you go and are all-inclusive holidays cheaper than self-catering?
Independent travel consultant Lucy Allen said there are lots of great deals to be had.
She said: ‘January is a great time to book your holiday as there are loads of great deals to be had: including free kids places.
'But you’ll need to be quick before they get snapped up.’
Here’s your need-to-know guide before booking your family holiday ...
Where are the top destinations for family holidays in 2023?
According to data from TravelSupermarket and icelolly.com , Majorca and Turkey are both top spots for summer 2023.
Lucy agrees. 'For short haul, the Balearics are always popular, including Majorca,' she said.
'The Canaries are cheaper and are also a hit with families as they’re not far to fly and feel more exclusive than mainland Spain. It’s also a good year-round destination so popular for February and October half term.
‘Turkey is great value for money and is also good for October holidays.
'Meanwhile, Disneyland Paris is celebrating its 30th birthday so has lots of extras including character parades. There’s no such thing as a cheap deal there, but you’re getting better value for money because of all the birthday celebrations.
‘If you’re after a cheaper sunshine break then Bulgaria is worth a look too.'
What else is a popular holiday choice for families?
According to Lucy, cruises are having a BIG moment.
She said: ‘They’re great for families.
'They have kids clubs and so many activities on the ships. Plus, you’re going to a different destination every day.
'A lot of cruise ships have family cabins. Cruise lines have a lot of deals in January and some are even offering ‘kids go free’, while others have reduced fares for children.’
What about villa holidays?
If you’re planning a villa holiday, you’ll need to be quick.
Lucy said: ‘Villas are really popular. We’re seeing lots of multi-generational holidays with grandparents or with other family members.
'People like the flexibility of a villa, you get your own pool and you can eat when you want.
'At some all-inclusives, restaurants are only open at certain times.'
Which is cheaper: self-catering or all-inclusive?
It depends! Self catering is cheaper upfront but then you have to spend while you’re away.
Meanwhile all-inclusive holidays mean you don’t need to pay for anything (although there are usually extras you can splash out on if you want.)
How much money do you need to take on an all-inclusive holiday?
It depends on which resort you go to, says Lucy.
‘Some give you a wristband which is scanned when you get food and drink so you don’t pay anything at all.
'Everything is free at the buffet restaurants but at some all-inclusives, if you want to go to their other restaurants you have to pay. Just be careful when you’re looking to book at what you get in your deal.
'Activities like kids clubs are usually included but you might have to pay extra for tennis lessons or football academy for example.'
How to bag a good deal
'Be clever and get in early,' said Lucy.
No wonder so many people book on 'Sunshine Saturday'!
‘Take advantage of the January sales. Jet2 for example are offering free child places and you can book them, and all big travel names, through independent travel consultants.
'The free places and room upgrades are really popular. When they’re gone, they’re gone.'
If you can, be flexible on when you go.
'The cheapest time in the summer is usually right at the end of the school holidays', said Lucy.
Read more about family holidays
Amazing all-inclusive family holidays for 2023
How to get the best all-inclusive holiday deals
