Skyscanner, the Edinburgh-based travel comparison website founded 24 years ago by three IT professionals, has launched a new service allowing users to compare package holiday prices. The company, known for its global flight comparison tool, now searches 25 million packages daily from major UK providers including Lastminute.com, Expedia, Love Holidays, Tui, easyJet Holidays, Jet2 Holidays and On the Beach. As with its flight service, Skyscanner does not take bookings but directs customers to suppliers.
Laura Lindsay of Skyscanner said the company is “excited to bring our industry-leading price comparison tech, which travellers already trust us for with flights, hotels, and car hire, to packages.” She added that with increasing choice in how package holidays are constructed, travellers need an easier way to compare options in one place.
However, travel experts have raised concerns. Deputy travel editor Sophie Dickinson noted that while the service is a useful starting point, it lacks filters for features like kids’ clubs or on-site restaurants, which are important for families. Travel correspondent Simon Calder argued that the inclusion of many online operators complicates comparisons, as hidden costs such as transfer fees can significantly increase the total price. He highlighted that traditional package operators like Jet2 and Tui offer greater consumer protection and inclusive services, such as transfers and baggage allowances.
Calder also criticised Skyscanner’s broader model, citing confusing differences in cabin baggage policies that can make low headline fares misleading. Despite these issues, Dickinson acknowledged that the service could save money by comparing whole holidays, though she noted that other comparison sites already offer similar tools with more operators.
