Household Bills
The most affordable holiday destinations for October half-term
The cost of a family break has risen in seven out of ten holiday destinations this October half-term, but the strong pound means there’s still value to be found.
Research from M&S Bank reveals that the cost of a family holiday is up 11 per cent on last October.
However, the strong pound means many European holidays still prove good value for British holidaymakers. Sterling has risen nine per cent against the euro since this time last year.
The most affordable October half-term holiday destination is Malta, costing a family of four £1,872, or £468 per person, a saving of £84 compared to last year.
Menorca, last year’s most affordable destination, is now in second place, costing a family of four £1,936, or £484 per person, still proving relatively good value, despite a seven per cent rise in cost in the past year.
Crete has seen the biggest decease in cost on last year and is the third most affordable destination. A holiday for a family of four in the popular Greek island will cost £1,940, down by £476 since 2014.
Out of the top five most affordable destinations, Cyprus offers the best weather for families hoping to enjoy some sunshine before winter sets in. The island enjoys average temperatures of 22°C in October, with ten hours of sunshine, and only 18mm of rain forecast for the month. Cyprus is the fourth most affordable destination overall at £2,588 for a family of four.
Also popular with holidaymakers travelling in October due to its year-round warm climate, Tenerife has seen the average cost of a return flight for a family of four more than double, from £1,020 in 2014, to £2,148. As a result, the total cost of a family holiday has risen from £1,800 to £2,804 this half-term.
The price of a return flight for a family of four has risen in seven out of ten popular winter sun destinations, with an average increase of 24 per cent. As a result, the total cost of a holiday in these destinations, including flights, accommodation and spending money, has risen by an average of 21 per cent.
Despite an increase in costs, long haul destinations could still prove popular options for those looking for warmer climates. While Antigua and Barbados come in at first and second most expensive, they enjoy average temperatures of 27°C in October. However, they also have higher levels of rainfall – 101mm and 178mm respectively.
The total cost of a family holiday to Barbados has increased from £4,304 to £6,336. Again, flight prices have increased, having gone from £3,164 in 2014 to £5,224 this half-term.
The increase in flight costs for some of the destinations suggests that higher demand from holidaymakers over half term could be pushing up prices.
Top five most affordable destinations and cost per person:
- Malta – £468
- Menorca – £484
- Crete – £485
- Cyprus – £647
- Madeira – £688
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