As last-minute and weekend getaways gain popularity, easyJet has introduced a new feature catering to spontaneous travellers. The budget airline, which operates from Newcastle Airport, now allows passengers to book flights departing within the next 48 hours through its 'Drop Everything' flights option.
New Feature for Spontaneous Travel
easyJet's 'Drop Everything' flights are designed to make spontaneous summer travel easier and more affordable for UK passengers. Customers can search for flights departing within two days, helping them find last-minute getaways across Europe and beyond. Fares start from £47.99 for those ready to travel on short notice, as reported in the Express.
Survey Reveals Growing Trend
New research commissioned by easyJet and easyJet holidays indicates that Britons are increasingly open to booking holidays at the last minute. According to the survey, more than a third of UK adults (35%) plan to take a last-minute summer holiday this year, while nearly three-quarters (73%) believe that some of the best trips are booked impulsively. Almost half of the respondents (49%) expressed their willingness to pack their bags and leave within 48 hours if they find the right deal.
Younger travellers are leading this trend, with 38% of Gen Z respondents stating that the best holiday they ever took was booked less than three weeks before departure. Additionally, 69% of Gen Z and 50% of the general public admitted regretting passing up the chance for a last-minute trip.
Challenges and Motivations
The findings also highlighted that organising travel companions remains a significant challenge, with one-third of Britons admitting they have missed out on a vacation because friends couldn't commit in time. When it comes to booking a spontaneous getaway, 42% of respondents said an appealing flight or package deal would motivate them to 'drop everything,' while a quarter said they want to escape the working week. Others noted unused annual leave and the convenience of booking at short notice as factors.
Popular Destinations
Popular destinations for last-minute travellers include Spain, Greece, Portugal, and Italy, as holidaymakers are attracted by short flight times, minimal planning, and good value. Weekend breaks are becoming increasingly common, with travel influencers advertising flights that mean most won't need to take any annual leave.
easyJet's Expansion at Newcastle Airport
easyJet recently opened a new base at Newcastle Airport, making it even easier to find a cheap holiday. As the airline continues to add flights to its roster, there is even more choice for a last-minute flight.
Sophie Dekkers, chief commercial officer for easyJet, said: 'We know people are always looking for ways to make the most of their summer, especially when a last-minute getaway suddenly feels too good to miss. So we've launched 'Drop Everything' to help people find an incredible range of last-minute flights available across Europe and beyond, meaning it's never been easier to drop everything and head off somewhere sunnier. Whether you're booking a month, two weeks, or even 48 hours out, we're always aiming to make travel easy and affordable.'
