Barrhead Travel has reported that booking levels last week were 25% higher than the same period in 2019, with enquiry numbers reaching their highest point since the pandemic struck.
The Glasgow-headquartered agency has seen bookings rise since major travel restrictions were eased in January.
More than half of new bookings are for summer 2022 as clients “rush to secure holidays for this year”, said the chain.
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Furthermore, a growing number of holidaymakers are simultaneously booking trips for 2023 and 2024 “in a bid to lock in pricing”.
And last week, April was its top-selling month by passenger numbers, indicating a strong last-minute market.
Jacqueline Dobson, president of Barrhead Travel, expects this summer to see tourism levels return to “almost normality” as many people holiday for the first time in more than two years.
“Demand levels are soaring – we’ve particularly noticed a spike in holiday enquiries over the last few weeks as restrictions continue to relax across the world,” she said.
“With no travel restrictions left in the UK and many other countries following suit, people are feeling much more confident about travelling over the coming months.
“Summer is set to be our busiest, with school summer holiday dates proving to be the most popular departures for new bookings.
“The fact that we are seeing demand begin to outstrip 2019 levels really highlights how quickly confidence has returned to the market.
“We’ve noticed some operators and airlines increasing capacity for the summer season which is good news for the industry and for travellers.”
She said holidaymakers are undeterred by recent airline cancellations and airport delays.
“Of course, there are going to be some challenges along the way as travel recovers – we’re seeing that play out this week as this Easter is the first major holiday season to operate since pre-pandemic,” she commented.
“However, the airlines and operators are working tirelessly to get travellers where they need to be.
“Customers should make sure they reach their departure airport no later than three hours before their flight to allow plenty of time for transiting through check-in and security.
“It’s another reminder of why holidaymakers should consider booking with a reputable travel agent.
“No Barrhead Travel customer has lost out on their well-earned holidays this Easter as we’ve been able to quickly rebook anyone that was affected by schedule changes.”