Holidays: Skyscanner expert warns May restart might not ‘go to plan’ – advice for booking

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Many Britons may be eyeing holidays after the suggestion some international travel may resume from May if Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s “roadmap” out of lockdown goes to plan. However, this decision will be led by “data”, as well as restrictions and entry requirements decided by international governments.

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, Martin Nolan, a travel rules and consumer advice expert from Skyscanner shared his advice for Britons who are keen to get something in the diary now.

“Most people are still booking short term, which is a continuing trend from 2020. However, we are seeing interest for later in 2021 growing, especially following the announcement from the Prime Minister last week,” he told Express.co.uk.

“We expect to see the travel situation will change as infection rates, vaccination rates and a host of other key factors change throughout 2021.”

However, Mr Nolan warned the course to unlocking the UK and travel may not “go to plan”.

“The recent announcements on travel from around the world have given travellers a much-needed injection of hope and positivity,” he said.

“We are confident about travel’s return in 2021 but, the last year has taught us all that life is unpredictable, and I think it is safe to assume that not everything will go to planned on the way back to ‘normal’ life.”

In 2020, travel providers and airlines were hit with a slew of cancellations and refunds amid ever-changing restrictions on travel.

As a result, many have since implemented special Covid policies, allowing consumers the opportunity for more flexibility when booking their next trip.

These policies are crucial for those eyeing a holiday in 2021.

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“Travellers are keen to make bookings which protect their money should the rules change,” continued Mr Nolan.

“We’ve seen keen travellers embracing flexible airfares from travel providers who have been combining flexibility with low prices to stimulate bookings.

“Flexible air fares paired with a hotel booking with free cancellation means that travellers can delay their trip or simply change their destination and keep their travel dates should they need to.”

The expert continued: “There are a few ways travellers can protect their bookings.

“Purchasing a ‘flexible’ ticket could mean that you’re entitled to a free date or destination change if you should need it.”

However, it isn’t just airlines who are offering customers more options when it comes to cancelling and reschedule breaks.

“Combining flex airfares with flex hotels means you’re able to adjust dates and bookings if you’re unable or unwilling to travel,” explained Mr Nolan.

“This is particularly relevant where you’re still technically able to travel but would choose not to because of the impact that closures in your destination might have, or you can’t comply with quarantine restrictions.”

Furthermore, the Skyscanner expert suggests combing flex-fares may even help cut costs.

“This can sometimes be much cheaper than package holidays and of course, allows for a personally tailored trip,” he said.

Even with the emergence of more flexibility within the travel industry, it seems there is still one safety measure which trumps the rest.

“It’s key to purchase a travel insurance policy that suits your needs; there are policies which have been designed for post-coronavirus travel and it’s important to read the small print,” Mr Nolan urged.

“If you’re able to make the booking on a credit card you will get additional protections via your card issuer.” 

While the exact date overseas holidays will resume remains unknown, the Government’s Global Travel Taskforce is set to be reinstated next month.

Throughout the process of loosening restrictions, the Prime Minister has warned the nation will be lead by “data” rather than “dates”.

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