New research by Holiday Extras shows Britons are booking holidays for later in the year in the hope that the coronavirus crisis has passed.
The ancillaries supplier quizzed 1,000 in a survey and found that 25% have already booked a new flight or holiday, for travel after the coronavirus pandemic.
Three-quarters (75%) believe that they will be able to take a holiday this year, and 23% of those who have travelled within the last three months said they would be on the first flights that the government deems safe.
Low-cost carrier easyJet launched winter 2020-21 sales last week and Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have been unveiling summer 2021 programmes earlier than ever, from a host of UK airports.
Meanwhile, Kuoni has reported “a steady stream of people” asking about honeymoons, destination weddings and worldwide tours for 2021.
Seamus McCauley, editor-in-chief at Holiday Extras, said: “What people get from booking a holiday isn’t just the holiday itself, it’s planning it and looking forward to it.
“And now, more than ever, people have time to make plans and need something to look forward to as soon as this is all over.
“Airlines bringing their winter schedules forward so that people can book now is sensible for those looking ahead to the end of the current crisis.
“I expect the first thing people will want to do when all of this is over, is hop on a plane and get right back to seeing the world.”
He added: “Holiday Extras is offering helpful, flexible booking options that include free cancellation in case plans need to change.
“We have also just launched a brand-new special offer: buy airport parking or an airport lounge and we’ll give you £10 of free holiday spending money on a Caxton currency card, to use in one of 14 currencies of your choice.”