Travel association ABTA has issued new advice for travellers heading to Spain, France, and Italy this summer following a Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) update. Fresh research published by ABTA reveals that the Middle East conflict has significantly altered holiday booking patterns, with nearly a third of UK adults now more inclined to book through travel professionals.
Key Findings from ABTA Research
According to ABTA's survey of 2,000 UK adults conducted between May 8 and May 19, 2026, 31% of those considering a holiday within the next 12 months indicated they were more likely to book through a travel professional due to the current Middle East conflict. The primary reasons cited were 'knowledge' (53%), 'expertise' (44%), and 'wanting the security of a package holiday' (41%). Furthermore, 27% of respondents were more likely to book a package holiday than before the conflict.
Having everything organised (52%) and the entitlement to a refund or replacement if the holiday cannot proceed (48%) were the most frequently cited reasons for choosing a package holiday, followed by value for money (38%).
Top Summer Destinations
The Middle East conflict has led to flight delays, cancellations, and warnings against travel, with many routes to or through the region still cancelled. However, following the FCDO's revised travel guidance for several Gulf nations, appetite for travel to or via the region is expected to grow. Nonetheless, reduced flight availability means many holidaymakers are opting for short-haul breaks.
Of those planning to travel abroad in the next 12 months, 84% indicated they were planning to visit Europe. Spain tops the list as the most sought-after destination for 38% of summer travellers, followed by Italy (23%) and France (19%). Long-haul destinations also remain popular: 13% planned to holiday in the USA, 6% in Australia, and 6% in Japan.
Last-Minute Booking Trends
The conflict is also shaping booking behaviour, with more travellers choosing last-minute reservations due to a wait-and-see approach regarding prices and the cost of living. Among those considering a summer 2026 overseas holiday, 30% of UK adults were holding off until two to four weeks before departure, and a further 10% planned to book less than two weeks before travelling.
Mark Tanzer, chief executive officer of ABTA, said: "While global events are influencing how people plan and book their holidays and where they go, our appetite to travel abroad this summer and beyond continues to be strong. People are determined to get away and the UK's travel agents and tour operators are expertly placed to help them access the best deals and understand the latest travel advice."
Tanzer added: "With so many people saying they will book late, our advice is to get ahead of the pack and arrange your holiday now to avoid any last-minute rush."
Research Methodology
ABTA's research was conducted by The Nursery Research and Planning using a nationally representative sample of 2,000 UK adults, with the survey taking place between May 8, 2026 and May 19, 2026.
