Travelling over Christmas can feel like a lot. There’s pressure to make every moment meaningful, every day magical, and every minute count. Add the rush of last-minute Christmas holiday deals, and it’s no wonder many people feel stressed before they even pack a suitcase.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Christmas should be about family, friends, laughter and switching off, whether you’re heading for winter sun or planning a cosy European escape. The trick is to plan smartly and avoid the usual festive travel chaos.

If you're searching for last minute Christmas holidays, New Year travel deals, or simply looking for ways to make festive travel smoother, here are your go-to tips.

Start sooner than you think – even for last-minute deals

Flights and hotels fill up fast in December, and many popular winter sun destinations are already down to their final few rooms. Even if you’re booking last minute, the earlier you start searching, the more choice you’ll have.

If you’re eyeing a specific resort or Christmas villa holiday, don’t wait until mid-December. That quiet week between Christmas and New Year is perfect for locking in early deals for next year too.

More choice means less stress, better prices and fewer compromises.

Watch out for festive price rises and hidden extras

Traveling on Christmas week can be pricey, especially for long haul holidays. If you’re flexible, consider travelling:

• a few days before Christmas
• just after Boxing Day
• the first week of January

These dates often come with far better value, fewer crowds and more authentic experiences.

Also keep an eye out for extras such as Christmas dinner supplements and compulsory gala fees. They add up quickly, especially on all inclusive holidays.

If you’re booking last minute and want value, these little details matter.

Check minimum-stay rules (they catch many people out)

Many villas and resorts require a longer minimum stay during the Christmas to New Year period—some five nights, some a full week.

If you’re hoping for a quick 2-night escape or a multi-stop Christmas holiday itinerary, you may need to look slightly earlier or later.

Hotels that do allow shorter stays will book up first, so flexibility is key for a stress-free festive escape.

Be flexible, be patient, and stay open-minded

Festive travel is busy for everyone, including hotel staff who may be celebrating their own Christmas traditions. Services like room turnovers or activities may run a little slower.

Be open to swapping plans, adjusting timings or choosing a different room type. Flexibility is your best friend when searching for last minute Christmas holiday deals.

Embrace local traditions—it’s part of the magic

Don’t expect a carbon copy of Christmas at home. Celebrations abroad can be completely different—and often far more memorable.

From seafood feasts in Portugal to midnight celebrations in Spain or beach barbecues in Mauritius, Christmas abroad has its own charm.

A good tip for families: enjoy a mini Christmas at home before you fly, so no one feels they’ve “missed” anything.

Then unwrap gifts on holiday too—Father Christmas always finds his way to Dubai, the Maldives, or wherever your festive break takes you.

You don’t have to go long haul for a great festive escape

Yes, winter sun holidays are tempting. But if you’re booking late, Europe is one of the easiest and most magical places to spend Christmas.

Top favourites for UK travellers include:

• Christmas markets in Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic
• Snowy breaks in Canada or Colorado
• Festive city breaks in New York
• Northern Lights trips in Iceland and Finland

Think mulled wine, snowy laneways, cosy hotels, log fires and beautiful winter scenery. Often cheaper, always charming, and perfect for last minute holiday deals.

Looking for last-minute Christmas or New Year deals?

Whether you want winter sun, snowy scenery, beach-side Christmas mornings or a New Year escape, it’s still possible to book something unforgettable.

The key is simple:

• stay flexible
• book early for last-minute
• embrace the destination’s way of celebrating
• keep an open mind on travel dates and airport choices

If you want a festive getaway without the stress, our Travel Specialists can help you find cheap last minute holidays, last minute Christmas breaks, and the best New Year travel deals based on your budget and wish list.

Christmas is meant to be joyful. Let us handle the planning. You just enjoy the trip.