©Ross Parmly via Unsplash
Vacation in sight? Finding the best deals remains a priority for most travelers. The goal? To reduce transportation costs so as to have more money to spend locally.
In general, people choose the most convenient airport and opt for stays ranging from a simple weekend to a maximum of two weeks; well-established habits that ultimately drive up prices dramatically. On social media networks, the 'wonky holidays' trend is gaining in popularity. A strategy that promises to drastically reduce the cost of your vacation.
Why are traditional bookings more expensive?
According to data collected by British tour operator First Choice, as part of its Wonky Holidays Savings Report 2026, 70% of tourists still book so-called 'traditional' vacations. In other words: people choose their nearest airport, travel at weekends and opt for 2, 7 or 14-day stays - an approach that seems logical, but in reality increases costs without people realizing it.
The new trend of 'off-beat vacations' takes you off the beaten track to save over €1,000 per trip. The key is to completely rethink certain booking parameters. Necessary changes include flying mid-week, choosing an alternative airport and planning stays with an 'odd' number of nights, such as 3, 5 or 11 nights instead of the classic full weeks.
Tuesdays and Thursdays: the best days to take off
Saturdays are the preferred day for departures, so avoid them at all costs. Opting for Tuesdays or Thursdays can save you hundreds of euros. It's also worth remembering that the difference in airfares between weekdays and weekends can be substantial.
Low season: the secret to 16% lower costs
Targeting the low season is essential to help you keep costs under control. The ideal time to leave is between late March and mid-September, traditionally the most economical months. By opting for these times of year, you'll save at least 16% compared with the high season, while enjoying good weather conditions in most destinations.
Flexibility, the key to savings
The trend towards 'off-beat vacations' requires a certain level of flexibility, which will subsequently influence the organization of your trip. A slight dose of open-mindedness and you'll be able to afford two holidays for the price of one. And don't forget that value for money doesn't have to mean compromising the quality of your travel experience: it's simply a way of ensuring that your bank account doesn't run dry once your vacation's over.
Source : First Choice
(©GreenMe.it 2026/Managing editor: Julie Morgan - The Press Junction/Picture: Ross Parmly via Unsplash)