Package holidays are normally organised into two seasons: Summer (May to October) and Winter (November to April). In the Summer season more people are looking to take their holidays in August rather than in May. However, in order to be able to offer a wide range of holidays travel companies need to keep their flights and accommodation as full as possible throughout the year. They achieve this by varying the price to reflect the varying demand for holidays.

There are several reasons for price differences in holidays across the year but in general prices rise during the school summer holiday periods because August is the main month for holidays throughout Europe, so pressure on flights and beds comes from all outbound markets - not just from the UK. UK travel companies are therefore competing, for example, with German, French and Italian travel companies for a limited number of holidays.

Some Local Education Authorities are beginning to move to a six-term year, with holidays being slightly more spread. In order to fill aircraft in the quieter months, like May, travel companies frequently sell holidays at or below cost price in order to ensure that the flight is filled. This is often a good time to seek out excellent family discounted holidays if term times allow. There could also offers available during the peak period of late July and August. AITO Members will be advertising these special offers so check out our website for details.