Hoseasons and sister company cottages.com have reported 10% more Boxing Day bookings over their previous best in 2021.
The start of January has seen total bookings for Hoseasons and cottages.com up 19% and 33% respectively compared to the same four-day period last year after discounts of up to £200 were introduced.
The self-catering domestic operators, owned by European Vacation Rentals firm Awaze, said customers were acting early to lock in the best price for 2023 breaks and spread the cost over a longer period.
Demand has been particularly strong this week for spring holidays, with bookings for March up 35% year-on-year for Hoseasons and 59% for cottages.com.
Bookings for May are also up as customers look to make the most of the extra bank holiday for the King’s Coronation.
Yorkshire is proving to be the most popular destination with bookers for both brands this week.
Anglesey recorded the highest year-on-year growth for January and February cottages.com holidays (up 119%) and Devon recording the highest growth for Hoseasons breaks for the two months (up 27%).
The south-west is also performing well for both brands, with bookings for the year up 56% this week, compared to the first week of January.
Paul Evans, vice president – portfolio, at Awaze, said the figures demonstrate a strong turn-of-year market for UK holidays despite the cost of living crisis.
He added: “We know household budgets are being squeezed tighter than ever at the moment, but we also know from years of experience that holidays are one of the last things people are prepared to give up when times get tough.
“They are determined to have something to look forward to this year and the positive performance of our Big 2023 Sale shows the UK is still an extremely attractive option for cost-conscious customers at the right price.”
A January sale is being backed by a £1 million multi-channel marketing campaign across TV, video on demand, selected print titles and digital channels including social media, Spotify and email.
The promotion includes selected properties from Hoseasons’ portfolio of holiday park, lodge and boating breaks, as well as selected cottages.com cottages and ‘celebration’ houses.