The aviation regulator is urging travellers to “book wisely” and check for Atol protected packages on the eve of Sunshine Saturday.
The Civil Aviation Authority backed up industry expectations of a bookings surge by releasing research results suggesting that almost three in four consumers (72%) are planning on booking a getaway over this summer.
Abta today forecast that 68% of people intend to take an overseas holiday in 2025.
CAA head of Atol Michael Budge said: “Sunshine Saturday is one of the busiest days of the year for booking holidays, with many travellers taking advantage of bargain deals.
“We’ve seen bookings grow significantly back to pre-pandemic levels, and that’s why it’s important to make smart decisions to avoid missing out on key financial protection, so by booking an Atol-protected holiday, consumers know they can then relax, knowing they won’t be left out of pocket should their travel firm collapse.”
The authority issued top tips for booking a holiday to help consumers avoid losing money if something goes wrong on the back of a two-month peak campaign reminding people of the importance of checking for Atol protection before they book their next trip abroad.
Among the CAA’s recommendations is for consumers to book package trips offering consumer protection rather than organising flights and accommodation separately.
The regulator also warned people to beware of fraud and not to reply to unsolicited emails, texts, social media or calls with holiday offers. Links and attachments in emails may lead to malicious websites or download viruses, the CAA cautioned.
“Research your travel company and planned trip before you book, particularly if it is a company you haven’t travelled with before, and shop around with other providers to check it really is a good deal,” the official advice added.
Meanwhile, Which? travel expert Jo Rhodes said: “Though travel companies are billing this weekend as a prime time to grab a holiday bargain, don’t feel pressured into booking in a hurry.
“Time-limited deals aren’t always everything they promise so take the time to consider your options, and shop around to make sure you’re getting the right holiday for you, at the right price.
“Holiday booking scams are common at this time of year so if something looks too good to be true, always think twice. There are lots of dodgy ‘deals’ on social media, and fake listings can even make their way onto booking sites.
“Always avoid listings requesting payments by bank transfer, and consider doing a reverse image search on villas or rentals to check the images haven’t been lifted from elsewhere.”