Take the hassle out of holidays

THE start of the year is a bumper time for holiday bookings, with thoughts of a getaway perhaps making the winter chill slightly more bearable for some people.

- By VICKY SHAW

More than a third of shoppers are scouring around for a bargain holiday during the sales, according to research by MyVoucherCodes.

Many holidays are also being excitedly discussed, with more than half of people having started planning international trips, including taking active steps in discussing dates and locations, according to another recent survey, commissioned by American Express.

Younger adults in particular could be splashing the cash this year.

ABTA's Travel Trends for 2025 report indicates that more than one in five Gen Z adults are planning to spend more on their holidays this year so they can upgrade their accommodation, compared with 14% of Millennials, 11% of Baby Boomers and 8% of Gen X.

With some holidaymakers set to spend big in 2025, it's important to avoid any costly pitfalls that could scupper your plans. Here are some to watch out for:

Not taking out cover as soon as you book

There are a range of reasons why holidaymakers may need to cancel or shorten their trip - and travel insurance can provide cover for an "unforeseen" event such as illness, bereavement, jury duty, redundancy, significant home damage, or a burglary.

There are also optional add-ons to choose from, such as travel disruption cover, which can provide extra protection against events such as natural disasters.

Insurer Aviva is urging holiday-makers to take out cover as soon as they book their trip, with its data revealing the potential cost of cancelling a holiday due to unforeseen circumstances.