Brits could save over a third on the cost of holidaying this half term by avoiding favourite destinations such as Spain and Portugal. New findings by global travel search engine Skyscanner reveals the top searched destinations and the price change in flights compared to last year.
The comprehensive research shows that those looking for a bargain break away will find the best deals in Ireland, where prices have fallen by as much as 35% for flights during the October half term compared to the same time last year. Other great deals are to be had in the Netherlands and Germany (up to 28% cheaper) and France.
However, anyone hoping for some last minute sunshine in either Spain or Portugal will pay over the odds this year as flight prices have risen by as much as 15% and 7% respectively compared to October half term 2014.
The significant decrease in prices year on year suggests a wider trend in the evolution of flight prices across the globe. The increase in air capacity and a weak Euro are two of the likely causes for the decrease, while capacity cuts to Spanish carriers through restructuring have resulted in price hikes.
Here are the top searched for destinations for October half term
1. Spain
Average Flight Price 2014 - £203.95
Average Flight Price 2015 - £234.73
Increase +15%
2. United States
Average Flight Price 2014 - £626.41
Average Flight Price 2015 - £582.62
Decrease -8%
3. Italy
Average Flight Price 2014 - £178.51
Average Flight Price 2015 - £146.01
Decrease -18%
4. France
Average Flight Price 2014 - £183.34
Average Flight Price 2015 - £145.87
Decrease -20%
5. Germany
Average Flight Price 2014 -£167.93
Average Flight Price 2015 - £121.71
Decrease -28%
6. Ireland
Average Flight Price 2014 - £108.34
Average Flight Price 2015 - £70.61
Decrease -35%
7. Portugal
Average Flight Price 2014 - £183.36
Average Flight Price 2015 - £196.45
Increase +7%
8. Turkey
Average Flight Price 2014 - £252.79
Average Flight Price 2015 - £247.91
Decrease -2%
9. Netherlands
Average Flight Price 2014 - £137.11
Average Flight Price 2015 - £98.66
Decrease -28%
10. United Arab Emirates
Average Flight Price 2014 - £471.62
Average Flight Price 2015 - £462.70
Decrease -2%
See the top ten destinations to go to this October half term