Set your alarm! Travel expert says early this Sunday is one of the best times to book a last-minute bank holiday getaway

Set your alarms bright and early on Sunday morning – a travel expert has advised it’s the best time book a holiday and save some money while doing it.

With the August bank holiday weekend around the corner, families across the UK may be hoping to lock in a spontaneous getaway that won’t blow the budget.

A travel expert has analysed booking trends to pinpoint the predicted best moment to buy for travellers still looking for a great last-minute deal.

Chris Bradshaw, who has worked in the travel bookings industry for over 30 years, is both a director and travel bookings expert at AttractionTickets.com. 

The estimated best days to book your last-minute August bank holiday break for maximum savings are Sunday 16 and August 23 at 6am. 

He explained: ‘By the time August rolls around, you might think there’s no point in booking a holiday because everything is too expensive. 

‘There’s a misconception that all prices are astronomical this month, but this isn’t always the case if you know where and how to book. 

‘Despite many people thinking airline prices simply go up and up, they actually continually update fares and availability based on public demand. 

‘This means there are still plenty of opportunities for a good deal out there – and I know of a few tips for the August bank holiday deals specifically.’

Sundays consistently stand out as one of the best days, value-wise, to make a booking. 

This is likely due to airlines refreshing inventory over the weekend, Chris said. 

Booking on a Sunday can save 23 per cent in comparison to Friday bookings – which is a lot of money, especially if you’re holidaying as a family.

The timing of your booking is important too. 

While it’s not guaranteed, many flight providers release fresh fares early in the morning. 

‘If I wanted a good deal, I’d be online at around 6am to find the best ones before booking activity increases,’ Chris said. ‘This is likely going to give you the best chance for finding a good offer.’

There’s also a booking window for travellers seeking the best fares for upcoming holidays

Lastly, there is a secret last-minute travel window that gets great deals. 

Between eight and 23 days before departure is when you are likely to find the most competitive fares.

This applies to long-haul destinations specifically.

Chris says: ‘With all of these insights in mind, my prediction would be that both Sunday 16 and 23 August sit in the perfect timeframe for a deal in the run-up to the August bank holiday. 

‘Whilst I have to stress that nothing is ever guaranteed, they are the dates I’d be utilising myself if I wanted to seize the opportunity for a cheaper last-minute bank holiday break.’