Whether you want to catch some winter sun, shop at some European Christmas markets or visit extended family abroad, holiday travel can be magical. However, the Christmas and New Year break is traditionally the busiest (and most expensive) time of year to book flights.
To help you get the best deal possible, we’re revealing our search data to let you see when other travellers are looking to book. That way, you can pick quieter travel days to have a hassle-free journey, while saving on both on flights and hotels. It’s a win-win.
Quietest days to travel before Christmas
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, 10 December is by far the most popular date for flights, followed by 16 and 17 December. After that, travel numbers generally slow down towards the big day, although there are a few dates that are quieter than their neighbours. Have a look at 19, 20 and, if you don’t mind leaving it late, 24 December to avoid the crowds.
Days that are busier than others include 11, 18 and 21 December.

Quietest days to travel after Christmas
Some of the busiest days to fly are 31 December, 1 January and 5 January. If you want to move on before New Year’s Eve, 29 and 30 December are your best best for cheap flights. But if you’d rather wait until the new year, look for flights on 3, 4 or 7 January. But you’ll find the very best deals if you can wait until 12 January, which is when holiday demand starts to significantly drop.

Busiest destination countries for holiday travel
Winter travel for us Brits is often about heading to warmer climes. For overseas flights during the Christmas holidays, the top five searched-for destinations are:
- Spain
- USA
- Thailand
- Italy
- India

Busiest international cities for holiday travel
If you’re heading overseas for Christmas and the New Year, there are a few favourites that British travellers search for time and time again.
The top five cities searched for over the Christmas break have been:
- Bangkok
- New York
- Dubai
- Tenerife
- Malaga
The price of holiday travel varies significantly by destination, dates and airlines, so booking ahead and being flexible with your plans is the best way to secure a great deal.
Booking the best hotels for holiday travel
As well as finding the best prices on flights, budget holiday travel means looking for hotel deals, too. Those who are travelling for family reunions often get the benefit of free accommodation but if not, you’ll likely want to book a hotel (and sooner rather than later).
Here are some budget and luxury options in some of our most popular destinations for holiday travel.
Hotels in Bangkok

Best budget hotel: United Residence. Here’s the ideal hotel for travellers who want to spend all day exploring the city and tucking into cheap, delicious street food eats. Hidden away on a quiet street, but with stores and restaurants nearby, you get the best in terms of price and location – plus free coffee in the library.
Best luxury hotel: The Sukhothai Hotel. Alternatively, if you think the accommodation makes the holiday, this five-star hotel may be for you. The Sukhothai Hotel makes you feel like you’re in a hidden oasis in the middle of the bustling city. On top of the modern yet classical decor, the extensive spa facilities are open throughout the day and the champagne brunch is considered the best in Bangkok.
Hotels in New York

Best budget hotel: Henry Normal Hotel. Searching for cheap accommodation in Manhattan can be a thankless task, so broadening your search often pays dividends. The Henry Norma Hotel in Brooklyn opens up a different side of the Big Apple, home to hipsters and artists. The hotel fits in with that way of life with unique artworks in each room, but the complimentary breakfasts and coffees make it all the more appealing.
Best luxury hotel: SoHo 54. In Lower Manhattan, SoHo54 offers luxury amid some of the major landmarks: Chinatown, Fifth Avenue and Wall Street are all within easy walking distance. Rest those weary legs at the end of the day in unparalleled comfort, watching films on a massive flat screen TV or enjoying skyline views from your private balcony.
Hotels in Dubai

Best budget hotel: Rove City Centre. Budget hotels in Dubai are hard to come by, but it’s not impossible. Rove is considerably cheaper than many of the other options in the city, but that doesn’t mean you’re skimping on quality. Close to local markets, waterfront dining and water taxis, it’s very well positioned. The hotel has an outdoor saltwater pool, free airport shuttle bus and a host of board games to keep you happy during your stay.
Best luxury hotel: Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf. Book a luxury villa at Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf and be spoilt like never before. Take your pick from the onsite waterpark, book traditional or luxury tours and rotate through the resort’s eight dining options. Although Dubai has much to offer, you may find everything you need for your holiday right here.
Hotels in Tenerife

Best budget hotel: Finca La Majadera. While some of the beachside hotels in Tenerife cost a pretty penny, Finca La Majadera finds the sweet spot between affordability and traditional Spanish living. Its villas are surrounded by fruit trees and have an outdoor swimming pool, with the whole place oozing rustic appeal. La Nea Beach is a bus trip (or drive) away.
Best luxury hotel: Iberostar Grand Salome. This adults-only resort makes life easy. It’s on the beachfront, all inclusive and gives you plenty of reasons to stay put and relax. Pick from two outdoor pools, eat at seven different restaurants and end the night at one of two bars. To really splash out, book a suite and enjoy the private butler service.
Hotels in Malaga

Best budget hotel: Apartamentos Miraflores. Save money on accommodation and dining costs by booking a self-catered apartment. The central location makes for a great holiday, just a mile away from the main beach and within very easy walking distance of the Picasso Museum.
Best luxury hotel: Only You Hotel. Located on the harbour, Only You is a hotel with a great position and even better views, from the rooftop bar or eighth-level market restaurant. To relax in style, take a dip in the rooftop infinity pool, choose from a menu of pillows or have a lazy day knowing that breakfast is served 24 hours a day. The icing on the cake? It’s dog friendly.
Read more about holiday travel
- Looking for last minute gifts? Find out about the best Christmas markets in UK for 2022
- Want some winter sun? Find out where to travel if you want to go somewhere hot in December?
- It’s easy to burn out over the Christmas period. Avoid this by learning about self-care travel tips for the holiday season