Travel firms slash prices of breaks to EU by up to 50%
● But travellers are warned to check insurance policies and passports
Brexit uncertainty may at least be good news for some holidaymakers, with new data showing travel operators have slashed prices on breaks to countries in the European Union by up to 50 per cent.
A new analysis of package holidays from comparison website Travelsupermarket found that prices for dates after the scheduled Brexit deadline of 31 October have dropped by up to half compared with the same time last year. One deal on offer could see Brits bag a four-star break in Prague for just £95 per person for a week.
The impact on holidaymakers of Brexit remains unclear, but although a government report out earlier this month into the effects of a no-deal Brexit said freedom of movement would be scrapped, planes will continue to fly.
In the meantime, sun-seekers could cash in on a host of bargain breaks, with average prices to Florence dropping by 42 per cent, Milan by 29 per cent and Madrid by 21 per cent.
Emma Coulthurst, from Travelsupermarket, said: “November is a good time to go away anyway as it is ‘shoulder season’, which means lower prices and less crowds.
“But with the Brexit factor added in as well, there are some really good value package holiday prices from the UK to Europe at the moment.
“Low-cost airlines are running seat sales to encourage people to holiday after the Brexit deadline. Since many city breaks and some beach package holidays contain a low-cost flight, this is an additional reason why package holiday prices are lower.”
The comparison site looked at prices from more than 25 providers, with trips to the Algarve also dropping by 50 per cent year-on-year looking at trips of all lengths.
It’s not the first time Brexit has cause a boost for holidaymakers, with fears of a nodeal Brexit causing operators to slash bookings last Easter.
Analysis at the time showed some breaks had been cut by up to £100 per person.
However, holidaymakers looking to cash in on lastminute deals should make sure they check their travel insurance and passport.
Ms Coulthurst stressed that while there is “no reason not to travel”, people should make sure their passport is valid for at least six months, and that those wishing to drive get an International Driving Permit and Green Card from their insurer.
The government has also advised travellers to Europe to ensure any healthcare costs are covered by insurance, with official government advice stating: “After Brexit your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) card may not be valid.
“It’s particularly important you get travel insurance with the right cover if you have a pre-existing medical condition. This is because the EHIC scheme covers pre-existing conditions, while many travel insurance policies do not.”