U.K. Travellers Lead World in Early 2025 Holiday Bookings

Sabre booking insights show that UK travelers are leading the global trend by planning their 2025 travel schedules earlier than travelers from any other country. This shift reflects a major change in the travel habits worldwide where early bookings have become the preferred way to secure desired travel experiences and control costs.

Sabre's data shows that British tourists are the most decisive in making their travel arrangements, especially for long-haul destinations that combine sun and culture. Notably, the United States is the most popular destination for UK tourists, followed by Spain, Thailand, India, Singapore, the Maldives, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Iceland, and Australia. This trend is most noticeable from the bookings made in the first quarter of the year, a time when the coldness of British winter makes people search for sunnier destinations. Nevertheless, places such as Iceland are also attractive, proving that UK travelers are as keen on colder activities.

Early bookings for the US, Spain, Thailand, India, the Maldives, and the UAE have increased significantly compared to the same period last year. At the same time, such destinations as Barbados and Sri Lanka are becoming more popular but have not yet entered the top ten.

The trend of advanced bookings suggests a return of confidence among the travellers who are ready to plan their holidays well in advance. This proactive approach not only helps in financial planning but also gets the most desired destinations and accommodations.

"The trend we're seeing is travelers are not just dreaming of their next vacation; they are taking definitive steps to make sure it happens. Early booking of holidays is becoming an indicator of confidence and a way to manage travel budgets strategically. It should be taken into account by all in the travel industry since it defines the market dynamics", said Nisha Botevyle, Sabre's Director for Strategic Development in EMEA.