BBC expert Holly Hamilton has advised UK travellers to carry out straightforward checks when booking holidays, warning that the first deal they see might not be the best price. Sharing her expertise on BBC Morning Live, the journalist revealed key tips for enjoying summer breaks on a budget.
Don't book the first deal you see
Hamilton, a self-described "serial holidaymaker," cautioned: "I will say when you do find the dream holiday, don't book the first one that you see, because that might not actually be the best price." She explained that holiday-makers often face a dilemma between package deals from third-party booking platforms and arranging trips directly with airlines, hotels, or activity providers.
She noted that there is no one-size-fits-all answer and encouraged thorough research. Third-party platforms act as travel agents or "middlemen" without owning any of the airlines, hotels, or companies travellers will encounter. These platforms generate revenue through commission and advertising, which can sometimes result in lower prices than booking directly.
Compare prices and check small print
Hamilton said she uses third-party platforms as a price comparison resource but advised checking the small print on provider websites. "Sometimes it can be cheaper, but very often if you do go directly to the airline or to the hotel it can actually work out even cheaper if you dig a little bit deeper and read the extras," she said.
She gave an example: "You might find that on the third party site, just the flight is £50 but for £60 booking it directly (with the airline) you might get your luggage included. Or in a hotel, you might get a flexible fare to avoid any cancellation fees, all that does add up very very quickly. Just read the small print on that, even a free breakfast."
Consider convenience and security
Drawing from her own experience, Hamilton cautioned that those using third-party booking platforms may encounter difficulties if problems arise. "You might end up stuck talking to a chatbot for a little while. It's very difficult sometimes to get a refund," she warned.
She added: "There is no one-size-fits-all argument here effectively. You have to think about the price, the convenience, and the security. What order you put that in, I find for me has changed throughout my life."
Hamilton reflected on her own priorities: "There was a time in my 20s, I was very happy to hop aboard and take the risks and get a cheap price. These days, travelling with small children, I want to know where I'm going. I want to know that there's somebody at the other end of the phone."
Package holidays offer consumer rights
She also recommended package holidays, noting: "I do like a package holiday. You get all your consumer rights with that... it can prove a little bit cheaper. Talk about things like your free breakfast."
