When is the best time to go on holiday?

With the hottest summer on record behind us and the first signs of autumn appearing, many Brits will undoubtedly be planning to go on holiday.

Whether you’re looking forward to an island break, a golfing getaway or planning a UK staycation, we look at the best value-for-money dates to go on holiday, the busiest travel times, and the most popular autumn destinations across the globe.

The most popular places to go on holiday in autumn

Autumn’s reputation as a cheaper time to travel may be over, with prices now higher than in summer, according to Expedia’s Autumn Travel Outlook. However, there are still popular destinations where holidaymakers can find better value for their money.

Try 6 free issues of MoneyWeek today

Get unparalleled financial insight, analysis and expert opinion you can profit from.

Start your trial

Sign up to Money Morning

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter

Sign up

For instance, while prices are higher in domestic hotspots like Birmingham (+30%) and Liverpool (+20%), they are typically less expensive in the Lake District (-10%) and the Isle of Wight (-20%) post-summer.

Expedia’s findings are based on comparing domestic stays booked between 1 June and 31 August 2026, with stays booked between 1 September and 30 November 2026.

Destinations like Luxembourg and Albania are attracting a growing number of tourists looking for time away from the crowds in undiscovered places.

These trending destinations are based on Expedia search data from 13 April 2026 to 12 July 2026 for travel between 1 September 2026 and 30 November 2026, compared with the same period last year.

Source: Expedia Autumn Travel Outlook report

The best time to go on holiday in autumn

Autumn is often termed ‘shoulder season’, as it falls between the peak summer months and a busy winter, so you can get more value for money without compromising on quality.

If you’re planning a break, here are the dates worth keeping in mind.

Source: Expedia Autumn Travel Outlook report

Source: Expedia Autumn Travel Outlook report

The best time to go on holiday in summer

If you're looking for a quieter journey with less chance of crowds or a more budget-friendly trip, here's what you need to know.

Source: Expedia Summer Travel Outlook report

Source: Expedia Summer Travel Outlook report

The best time to go on holiday in spring

Spring is a popular time for holidaymakers looking to escape the final chapter of cold weather in Britain, and certain dates may offer better value than others.

Source: Expedia Spring Travel Outlook report

Source: Expedia Spring Travel Outlook report

The best time to go on holiday in winter

While winter isn’t the most affordable time to go on holiday, there are still ways to get the most value for your money.

Source: Expedia Winter Travel Outlook report

Source: Expedia Winter Travel Outlook report

How to find the best value travel deals

Planning a holiday doesn’t always have to be stressful – as long as you’re well prepared. Our checklist could even help you save money on your holiday.

1. Sort out your travel insurance

Many people put off buying travel insurance and prioritise booking travel and accommodation, but it is a good idea to sort your coverage sooner rather than later. It can be very helpful if you get stuck by travel delays or face hefty medical fees while overseas.

2. Book refundable accommodation

It’s a good idea to reserve hotels that have flexible policies like ‘free cancellation’ or ‘reserve now, pay later’. That way, you can have peace of mind in case you need to change the dates of your trip or cancel at the last minute due to an emergency.

3. Bundle up

All-inclusive packages can be a good option if you want to travel with ease. You can customise your packages in one place, whether it’s flights, car hire, hotels or any activities you’re planning to partake in.

4. Don’t forget about travel money

It’s highly recommended that you don’t get your travel money at the airport, where exchange rates are poor. You will also want to make sure that you have the right cards for travel abroad, so you don’t get stung by high fees.

5. Find the best time to book your flights

Flying on the right day can save you stress at the airport, but knowing when to book your flights can save you hundreds of pounds – money you can put towards your trip instead. If you prefer to fly premium, there are ways to find cheap business and first-class flights.