If you like travel and you like trends, then this is the perfect place for you! The clever bods at ABTA have done some heavy digging to predict what plans you lovely holidaymakers have on the cards for next year in their Travel in 2023 report. From ‘hibernation’ stays to savvy spending, here’s the lowdown on next year’s biggest holiday hits…

1. Get great-value all inclusive
Yep, we all know all inclusive is a fab way to make your money go further. But with so many of us feeling the pinch right now, it’s more popular than ever, because it means you can stay in control of your costs. The real beauty of it is that what you pay upfront is pretty much the total price of your holiday – no need to take extra spends while you’re away thanks to three meals a day, drinks and snacks all rolled into the price. And you can choose budget or blow-out – the range of accommodation and destinations on offer really is varied, so there’s something for every type of sun (and saving) seeker.

2. Say hello to the ‘hibernation' holiday
Which do you prefer – gloomy grey skies or bright blue ones? Yep, we thought so! It’s no wonder then that more and more of us are looking to ditch the drizzle and head south to sunnier climes to recharge our batteries over the winter months. And lingering for a little longer is also thought to be a key trend for the season ahead. Plus, the rise in remote working means that more people have the flexibility to pack up their laptops and work from warmer spots too! New to winter sun? How about the colourful and classic Canary Islands? Maybe the Costa del Sol’s mix of modern attractions and authentic flavours? Outdoorsy types, make it the lush island of Madeira for a trip with a twist. And Turkey is always a good idea in our book…

3. A slice of escapism
One of the wonderful things about a holiday is that it can offer a much-needed change of scene. And with the mounting pressures of everyday modern life, people are looking to get away to improve their wellbeing more than anything else. Holiday heavyweights such as Spain, France, Greece and Italy have been firm favourites for years, but it looks like many of you sun-seekers are set to stick to these hotspots thanks to their familiarity, comfort and ease. Sun, sea and simplicity = a great way to switch off.

4. The early bird catches the worm
After a turbulent few years, one of the last things we want to miss out on again is our well-deserved holiday. Which is why ABTA’s research shows a high level of early bookings. Many of you are locking in the price to protect it against any future hikes in cost, as well as making sure you have something in the diary to look forward to. It also means you can spread the cost into manageable payments to suit you. You can even be super-organised and get your Summer 2024 holiday sorted!

5. Conscientious travel
They say it pays to plan, and when it comes to holidays, it really does. And that’s what a lot of us are saying we’re going to do more of next year, just for that added peace of mind. But there are companies who can do that for you, which is why the good old package holiday is proving to be more popular than ever. Trusted travel experts, great-value inclusions, everything in one place and being kept in the loop are just a few of the many reasons why booking with an ABTA-protected package holiday pro is a no-brainer.
Posted: 6th Dec 2022.