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Covid travel: Omicron hitting holiday bookings, says Tui

• Published 8 December 2021
• Coronavirus

The pace of holiday bookings is slowing down after the emergence of the Omicron coronavirus variant, holiday giant Tui has said.

Reports of higher infection rates are also putting a dampener on bookings, especially for this winter, Tui said.

Despite this, it expects bookings for next summer to be close to pre-pandemic levels.

New UK travel rules to try to prevent the spread of the Omicron variant came into effect on Tuesday.

The changes include include pre-departure tests for people arriving in the UK, while 11 African countries have been put on the red list for travel .

The travel industry warned on Monday that the new rules would be a "hammer blow" and that livelihoods would be "devastated".

• Covid: Travel changes too late to halt potential new wave - scientist
• Omicron: What Covid tests do I need if I travel abroad?

Tui said it had 4.1 million bookings for its next winter and summer seasons, with 1.4 million bookings since 3 October.

However, it said: "The increased media coverage of rising incident rates and the emergence of new Omicron variant has weakened this positive momentum, particularly for winter."

Winter bookings were returning to pre-pandemic levels before "recent news coverage" of the pandemic, Tui said.

Over the past week, a quarter of Tui holidays booked for December had been postponed to a later date, it told the BBC.

The holiday firm narrowed its loss before tax to €71m (£60.5m) in the fourth quarter of the year to 30 September, compared with a loss in the same period last year of €836m.

It didn't say how much it expected to make next year.

After such a tumultuous couple of years for the travel industry, businesses are pinning their hopes on a strong 2022 summer season. There's been some optimism in the air.

However, the uncertainty around Omicron has prompted fears of a hit to consumer confidence, especially as a result of the re-introduction of temporary rules around international travel - with the UK bringing back the red list and extra Covid testing requirements.

So far it's short-term bookings being affected.

The real problem will arise if people who might normally make their summer holiday booking after Christmas or in January decide not to.

The industry will be crossing its fingers that the bumper summer it needs does still come to pass.

Tui chief executive Friedrich Joussen said that uncertainty over travel restrictions was "annoying".

"Overnight you get new rules," he said. "You have gone on vacation thinking nothing can happen, then tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of people have new rules and that is difficult."

He called on the government to give the travel industry more notice about upcoming rule changes.

Mr Joussen added that Tui partially subsidises the costs of PCR tests, which has some financial impact on the business.

Omicron concerns

While Omicron symptoms have so far been mild, there are early signs it is more transmissible than the Delta variant .

Following the new UK border restrictions brought in after the emergence of Omicron, more than one in eight UK tourism firms that cater for foreign visitors have had cancellations or expect to have them in the run-up to Christmas, industry body UKInbound said.

It said a survey of its members suggested "green shoots of recovery" had been "put on hold".

Its chief executive Joss Croft said: "Although thoroughly depressing, these results are not surprising.

"International consumer confidence to travel to the UK has taken another huge hit, and the UK's kneejerk decisions and lack of support for businesses that bear the consequences, means the recovery of this industry has already been derailed."

He added that firms needed "emergency support" and that they had "no wiggle room left".

"The summer season was all but lost for them, they have depleted their cash reserves and maxed out loans," he said.

Related Topics

• Travel & leisure industry
• Omicron variant

More on this story

How are travel rules being relaxed?

• Published 11 February 2022

Travel changes too late to stop Omicron - scientist

• Published 5 December 2021

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Marella Introduces New Cruise Control Hub

• May 31, 2021

Marella Cruises has revealed details of its new hub designed to make customers cruise experience even easier.

According to the TUI-owned brand, Cruise Control is the perfect cruise planner with everything all in one place, to get customers from their coach to “sipping a cocktail onboard simpler than ever before.”

Chris Hackney, Managing Director of Marella Cruises, said: “We’re pleased to be rolling out our online hub Cruise Control for our customers. We’re committed to making the customer experience as enjoyable as possible whilst being personalised for each guest, and our new hub makes it even easier. Customers have the ability to complete pre-travel requirements quickly allowing them to spend more time onboard, sailing to incredible destinations.”

Guests will be encouraged to use the hub to provide API, complete their online check in and their pre-travel medical screening.

Cruisers will also be able to print their cruise boarding pass and luggage labels, register a card to their onboard account, provide medical details for their cruise and book onboard extras such as excursions and tables in the stunning a la carte restaurants.

Operating in a slightly different way, Cruise Control is the hub for customers to simplify the pre-travel element of their cruise and book ahead, whereas the onboard app Navigate is designed purely for onboard purposes such as finding out entertainment schedules and complete the new video-based emergency passenger safety drill – MyMuster.  

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Customer demand for travel remains strong: TUI publishes Q4 pre-close trading update and confirms earnings expectation for FY23.

Confirmation of expectations for a strong Summer 2023 with bookings in final month of season well ahead of Summer 2022. We are pleased to see the positive momentum continuing into Winter 2023/24 supported by higher prices. TUI is well positioned to achieve the results target for FY 2023.

• Current booking trends underlining the strong consumer demand in the current macro-economic environment and the popularity of our product offering

Summer 2023

• Strong pipeline of 13.7m 1 bookings for the Summer 2023 season, a +5% increase against prior season and close to pre-pandemic levels at 96%
• 1.1m additional bookings taken since our Q3 2023 update with demand in the final month of season well ahead of Summer 2022 at +8%
• Season extension in particular in Greece and Turkey to accommodate increased demand
• ASP for Summer 2023 continues to be well ahead at +8% versus prior season and +27% versus Summer 2019, slightly ahead of the levels reported at Q3

Winter 2023/24

• Positive momentum continuing into Winter 2023/24 with an expanded programme and overall bookings up +15% against Winter 2022/23. Promising booking situation across all key source markets supported by higher prices +4% versus prior season. We are hedged for the coming Winter and Summer season in line with our expectations
• UK, as usual, with 38% of the season sold, is the most advanced booked on a larger programme. Bookings are at +8% and ASP +3% against Winter 2022/23
• Holiday Experiences trading remains well on track to deliver in line with expectations both for Summer 2023 and Winter 2023/24

Expectations

• TUI reconfirms expectations to increase underlying EBIT 2 significantly for both Q4 2023 and also for FY 2023 against FY 2022 TUI Group
• Q4 underlying EBIT FY 2023 2 expected to increase significantly against prior year – Hotels & Resorts anticipated to be close to an already strong prior year. Both Cruises and Markets & Airlines set to achieve a significantly improved result with a strong increase in results expected for TUI Musement
• FY 2023 Assumption 2 – we reconfirm our expectations to increase underlying EBIT significantly for  FY 2023
• Mid-term ambitions – we are focused on operational excellence and execution of our strategy. We have a clear strategy to accelerate profitable growth with new customer segments and more product sales. Our mid-term 2025/26 ambitions are for underlying EBIT to significantly build on €1.2bn 3 . We have a target to return to a gross leverage ratio 4 of well below 3.0x and aim to return to a credit rating in line with the pre-pandemic rating of BB / Ba territory
• We will issue the TUI Group Full Year results on Wednesday 6 December 2023 and hold a presentation for investors and analysts in London on the same day. Further details will follow

1  Bookings up to 10 September 2023 and relate to all customers whether risk or non-risk 2 Based on constant currency 3 FY 2019 underlying EBIT of €893m including €293m Boeing MAX cost impact 4 Defined as gross debt (financial liabilities incl. lease liabilities & net pension obligations) divided by underlying EBITDA

About TUI Group

The TUI Group is one of the world's leading tourism groups and operates worldwide. The Group is headquartered in Germany. TUI shares are listed in the Prime Standard of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, in the regulated market of the Lower Saxony Stock Exchange in Hanover and in the FTSE 250, an index of the London Stock Exchange. TUI Group offers its 19 million customers integrated services from a single source and forms the entire tourism value chain under one roof. The Group owns over 400 hotels and resorts with premium brands such as RIU, TUI Blue and Robinson and 16 cruise ships, ranging from the MS Europa and MS Europa 2 in the luxury class and expedition ships in the HANSEATIC class to the Mein Schiff fleet of TUI Cruises and cruise ships operated by Marella Cruises in the UK. The Group also includes Europe's leading tour operator brands and online marketing platforms, for example for hotel-only or flight-only offers, five airlines with more than 130 modern medium- and long-haul aircraft and around 1,200 travel agencies. In addition to expanding its core business with hotels and cruises via successful joint ventures and activities in vacation destinations, TUI is increasingly focusing on the expansion of digital platforms. The Group is transforming itself into a global tourism platform company.

Global responsibility for sustainable economic, environmental and social action is at the heart of our corporate culture. With projects in 25 countries, the TUI Care Foundation initiated by TUI focuses on the positive effects of tourism, on education and training and on strengthening environmental and social standards. In this way, it supports the development of vacation destinations. The globally active TUI Care Foundation initiates projects that create new opportunities for the next generation.

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Do TUI Prices Go Up and Down? A Definitive Analysis for Travelers

Travel author

I have a passion for the English countryside and especially anywhere in Yorkshire. I drink far too much Yorkshire tea on my travels and even take it with me when abroad. My passion is to share travel experiences with my readers which may help them plan their holidays and save money.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

When planning a holiday with TUI, you may wonder if their prices fluctuate.

This is a valid concern, as understanding the dynamics of TUI’s pricing can help you secure the best deal for your travel plans. In the world of travel, TUI prices can rise and fall in response to several factors such as demand, market trends, and the company’s strategies.

For TUI , one of the leading airlines and travel companies, their pricing patterns exhibit some variability. However, it is essential to recognize the factors that influence these changes. By closely monitoring these factors and understanding how TUI operates, you can anticipate fluctuations and potentially take advantage of better deals during certain periods.

Additionally, it’s important to remember that TUI , like other travel providers, faces unpredictable external factors that may impact their pricing.

Be it economic conditions, changes in the tourism landscape, or shifting consumer behaviors, these factors can all play a role in how the company adjusts its prices to remain competitive.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• TUI’s prices may fluctuate due to a variety of factors, such as demand, market trends, and company strategies.
• Keeping an eye on these factors can help you anticipate price changes and secure better deals during certain periods.
• It’s crucial to consider external influences that may impact TUI’s pricing, such as economic conditions and changes in the tourism landscape.

How TUI Prices Fluctuate

TUI holiday prices can change quite frequently based on several factors. One of the primary reasons is demand, which affects how much you’ll pay for a TUI holiday package.

As the demand for a specific destination or package increases, TUI may increase their prices. Conversely, when demand is low, you can expect prices to drop. Another factor that can influence price fluctuations is the time of booking, with many travellers looking for deals months in advance.

TUI’s pricing strategy also involves dynamic pricing , which means the prices change in real-time based on various factors. Dynamic pricing ensures that TUI adjusts the cost of holidays according to the current market conditions, maximizing revenue while keeping their offerings competitive.

To predict when TUI prices will be lower, it’s essential to monitor their website and offers regularly. You might find Black Friday deals or other promotions that could lead to substantial savings on your holiday package. Keeping an eye on price changes and being flexible with your travel dates can significantly increase your chances of finding the best deal.

In any case, understanding how TUI prices fluctuate will help you make informed decisions and increase your chances of securing an affordable holiday package. Being aware of these price changes and keeping track of your preferred packages is the key to finding the best possible deal for your upcoming holiday.

• Does TUI Have WiFi?
• Do TUI Provide Headphones?

Factors Influencing TUI Prices

When considering TUI prices, it’s essential to understand that various factors influence them. The fluctuations you may notice occur due to elements such as destination, demand, and the time of year.

One primary factor affecting TUI prices is the destination you choose. For instance, popular holiday spots like Spain, Turkey, and Mexico can experience substantial price changes based on supply and demand.

Demand plays a crucial role in determining the cost of your holiday package. Peak seasons like summer 2022 see a surge in bookings, and this increased demand often drives prices up for limited hotel and flight options.

When booking with TUI, you need to be aware of the availability of options at specific destinations. High-demand locations may see price increases due, in part, to the limited supply of hotels and flights. On the other hand, lesser-known destinations may offer more competitive pricing due to the lower demand.

Another crucial aspect to consider is that TUI prices can fluctuate based on the type of holiday, such as hotel-only or all-inclusive packages. Booking an all-inclusive package might appear more expensive, but it often includes exclusive perks.

To maximize your budget and secure the best possible deals, you can monitor TUI’s pricing changes or book early in certain periods. Timely decisions help ensure you get the best value for your chosen destination, hotel, and flight.

Considering these factors and staying flexible with your holiday choices will help you make informed decisions. Remember that TUI’s pricing is subject to change, so keeping an eye on prices and trends will benefit you in the long run.

TUI’s Holiday Packages and Prices

As a popular travel company, TUI offers various holiday packages to cater to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, TUI has you covered with their diverse range of hotels and destinations.

You can choose from a variety of package holiday options offered by TUI. From all-inclusive deals to self-catering stays, your preferences will be taken into account. With TUI, you can find a holiday that fits your budget and preferences.

It’s essential to note that TUI’s holiday prices can fluctuate . Sometimes you may find great deals, while other times prices may be higher. Monitoring the TUI website and waiting for special offers might help you find the ideal holiday at a better price.

When it comes to destinations, TUI provides a vast array of options through its First Choice brand. With options ranging from European beach holidays to more exotic, long-haul trips, you’re spoiled for choice.

Booking with specific tour operators or package holiday companies, such as TUI, can be beneficial. You’ll receive well-rounded service and support, which might include travel insurance, airport transfers, and customer service throughout your holiday experience.

It is essential to stay informed about TUI’s prices and deals for your desired destination. Being proactive and keeping an eye on various online forums or TripAdvisor message boards could give you insights into TUI’s holiday packages and better prepare you to make informed decisions.

The Effects of the Pandemic on TUI’s Pricing Strategy

During the pandemic, TUI faced several challenges affecting its pricing strategy. With travel restrictions and reduced consumer confidence, TUI needed to adapt to these changes to stay afloat.

You might have noticed fluctuations in TUI’s prices during this period. They had to reassess their pricing strategy to meet the changing demands of their customers. This sometimes resulted in price increases to compensate for the losses incurred during the crisis.

TUI also focused on their booking process , aiming to provide customers with more flexible options. This allowed them to book with confidence despite the unpredictable situation.

While trying to keep prices competitive, TUI had to strike a balance between attracting customers and maintaining profitability. The dynamic nature of the pandemic forced them to adjust their pricing strategy accordingly.

As the world’s largest holiday company, it is crucial for TUI to learn from the challenges presented during the pandemic. Adapting their pricing strategy ensures that they continue to provide value to their customers while safeguarding the company’s interests.

TUI’s Dynamic Pricing Model

TUI’s pricing model is known as dynamic pricing . This means that prices for their holiday packages, including flights and hotel bookings, can fluctuate based on demand.

As a customer, you may notice that prices for various TUI holiday offerings change frequently. This is because the dynamic pricing model adjusts the prices according to factors such as booking rates, time of year, and market conditions. Additionally, live price tracking allows TUI to respond quickly to changes in demand and supplier costs.

When you’re booking a holiday with TUI, know that their dynamic pricing model is designed to provide flexibility for both the company and its customers.

They can maximize their revenue by responding to market trends, while you can potentially find a better deal if you’re flexible with your travel dates or destination. Keep in mind, though, that these changes can go both ways, so prices may increase as well.

To secure the best price for your desired holiday, it’s advisable to monitor TUI’s offerings and book as soon as you find a suitable package. As an example, Mumsnet users have reported their own experiences of TUI’s price fluctuations, so be patient and keep an eye on their website for any price changes in favor of your holiday plans.

Comparing TUI’s Prices to Other Holiday Providers

TUI, formerly known as Thomson, is a leading holiday provider offering various travel services. You might wonder whether their prices are competitive when compared to other providers such as Airbnb and European hotel chains.

One factor to consider is the type of holiday you’re planning. TUI specializes in package deals, which may include flights, accommodation, and transfers. If you prefer a more personalized experience, Airbnb or independently booking hotels and flights might be more cost-effective for you.

Using a dynamic pricing model , TUI’s prices can go up or down depending on the demand. Other providers may also use this strategy, so it’s essential to compare the timing and availability of deals.

TUI offers a variety of holiday styles, from all-inclusive resorts to budget-friendly cruises. Comparison to other cruise providers such as P&O Cruises should involve evaluating factors like destinations, facilities, and deposit policies.

While shopping for a European holiday, keep in mind the fluctuating prices for hotels and the availability of discounts. Websites like Booking.com and Expedia offer a wide range of accommodation options, allowing you to compare these with TUI’s offerings.

Being a popular choice among Brits, TUI provides numerous holiday packages to cater to various preferences and budgets. In order to maximize potential savings, keeping an eye on TUI’s deals and discounts during peak promotional periods like January sales is highly recommended.

Overall, your decision to book with TUI should weigh factors such as holiday type, travel preferences, and timing. Comparing TUI’s prices and offerings to those from alternative providers ensures you make the most informed choice for your travel needs.

Consumer Expectations and Response to TUI’s Pricing

When booking your TUI holiday, it’s natural to wonder if the prices fluctuate. TUI, like many travel operators, adjusts its prices dynamically based on factors such as demand, season, and availability. As a result, customers may experience varying prices for similar holidays at different times.

This dynamic pricing strategy can sometimes lead to customers encountering discounts and deals. TUI often offers price reductions on holidays to attract more bookings or to fill up rooms and flights. It’s essential to keep an eye out for these deals to make your holiday more affordable.

However, price changes do not indicate a scam. TUI is a reputable travel company known for its wide range of holiday offerings. As the market fluctuates, so do prices, and customers should understand this aspect while planning their getaways.

When considering booking a TUI holiday, it’s crucial to research and compare prices across different packages. This approach helps customers make informed decisions about the best deals available, allowing for a more satisfying and budget-friendly vacation experience.

Lastly, remember that customer expectations may also influence TUI prices. High-demand destinations or peak holiday seasons typically result in higher prices due to increased bookings. You are encouraged to plan and book your holiday in advance or opt for less popular destinations or off-peak seasons to find better deals and enjoy a more economical trip.

Looking Forward: Predictions for TUI’s Future Prices

As you look forward, TUI’s future prices can be challenging to predict with certainty. However, certain factors and recent events might give you an idea of TUI’s future price trends.

For instance, TUI’s share price has plunged 26% since the beginning of 2021, mainly due to market reactions to a new share placing. This was aimed at repaying the Covid-19 aid received from the German government. Additionally, flight and holiday cancellations have undermined consumer confidence in the company.

TUI’s CEO, Fritz Joussen, is optimistic about the future, as the company more than halved its losses in May 2022 and anticipates a “strong travel summer.” This outlook could impact future TUI prices positively.

In June, TUI shares experienced a significant increase following this positive outlook, even though they later gave back some of those gains. TUI’s share price recovery from the 2020 lows demonstrates potential resilience in the face of challenges.

Market analysts have also offered their forecasts, with a median 12-month price target of €747.13 for TUI shares. Keep in mind that price targets can vary, and actual price changes may not align perfectly with predictions.

In conclusion, while TUI’s future prices might experience fluctuations, the company’s resilience and the positive outlook could potentially lead to favorable outcomes. Always consider both current events and long-term trends when assessing future price predictions for TUI.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do tui holiday prices fluctuate.

TUI holiday prices can change throughout the day due to various factors, such as demand and availability. It’s common for prices to fluctuate as customers book and cancel packages.

What factors affect TUI pricing?

Factors that affect TUI pricing include seasonality, destination popularity, and availability. Additionally, currency exchange rates, local taxes, and flight availability can also impact the prices of holiday packages.

Are there TUI promotional codes available?

Yes, TUI often offers promotional codes and discounts for their holiday packages. You can find these deals on their official website, voucher websites, or by signing up for their newsletter to stay informed about the latest offers.

Is it possible to negotiate with TUI for better deals?

TUI generally offers competitive pricing, and while it might not be possible to directly negotiate with them, you can still find better deals by being flexible with your travel dates, picking a less popular destination, or booking your trip during a promotion or sale period.

What makes TUI holiday packages expensive?

TUI holiday packages may sometimes seem expensive due to factors such as the destination’s popularity, peak travel season, and inclusions like excursions, meals, and entertainment. Choosing an all-inclusive package or a lesser-known destination can help you find more affordable options.

When do TUI sales occur?

TUI sales occur at various times throughout the year, with seasonal offers and promotions often available. Keep an eye on their website, subscribe to their newsletter, or follow TUI on social media to stay informed about upcoming sales and discounts.

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Budget airlines: which is the best – and what about the worst?

After Jet2 topped a Which? poll, we ask UK travel experts for their views and take a close look at the rules and extras

So which budget airlines offer the best customer experience, and which ones will have you muttering “never again” as you stagger out of the airport?

There is of course no one-size-fits-all answer – there are so many variables at play, from cost, customer service and the number of cancellations to legroom and luggage policy. Each airline has its own (often byzantine) rules, paid-for extras and small-print fees to navigate.

However, to try to come up with some answers, Guardian Money took a deep dive into the recent findings of a detailed survey of short-haul airlines by the consumer body Which?, and also asked travel experts for their views.

The Which? survey findings

The consumer organisation quizzed more than 8,000 travellers about their experiences of flying in the past two years, with passengers invited to rate their carriers across a range of criteria.

Jet2.com – which flies from 10 UK airports to more than 65 destinations – came out top with an overall customer score of 80%. It was one of only two short-haul carriers – the other being the airline Norwegian, which scored 74% – to achieve “recommended provider” status.

Propping up the bottom of the table were Wizz Air (customer score: 48%) and Ryanair (52%). British Airways was fourth from bottom with 56%, while easyJet and Tui Airways scored 59%.

What do travel experts say?

We asked four people who really know about this stuff for their views, including on which airline they think offers the best experience.

Paul Charles , the chief executive of the travel consultancy the PC Agency and a former director at Virgin Atlantic, told us: “I still think easyJet have one of the best products available for the price. It often gives the feel of being on a full-service airline but obviously without the frills … The crew are well trained at customer service in my view.”

Is it worth paying extra for the extras? “It depends on the airline and the destination,” Charles says. “If you’re on a four-hour flight to Athens, it’s worth paying extra for more legroom. If you’re only on a 90-minute flight, or have a small bag, then just pay the basic fare.”

He adds: “I travel a lot and am finding that passengers are bringing on board more and more luggage rather than checking it into the hold. People are paying for the ease of having their small bags with them at all times rather than risk luggage being mislaid behind the scenes. I think that’s wise as it means you can get off the plane and out of the airport as quickly as possible, which is a good thing!”

Chelsea Dickenson , who runs the website Cheap Holiday Expert , says that of the main three – Ryanair, easyJet and Wizz Air – she likes the “laissez-faire” attitude of Ryanair and Wizz Air, “since I’m often travelling with a bag that’s ever so slightly too big! Whereas I find easyJet is a bit more ‘on it’.”

That said, she adds: “If I was really pressed, I would have to opt for easyJet . This is in large part thanks to the fact that they don’t deliberately split up travellers booking together who have skipped the option to pay for a seat.”

Dickenson says her followers on Instagram agreed, too. “With over 3,000 responses on a recent poll I posted, 77% said that easyJet had the best customer service, followed by Ryanair at 15% and Wizz Air at a mere 9%. However, by adding Tui and Jet2 into the mix, easyJet slipped down to third place after Jet2 – who stormed ahead – followed by Tui.”

Oli Townsend , a deals expert at MoneySavingExpert.com , points out that with Ryanair, “if you don’t pay for a seat, you will almost certainly be split up, as it ‘randomly’ allocates seats for those who don’t cough up for guaranteed seats. Not paying for a Ryanair seat also means you can only check in for free 24 hours before departure – for comparison, easyJet is 30 days. It also means many will have to check in for their flight home while overseas.”

He adds: “Never leave checking in until you’re at the airport as Ryanair will charge you £55 a person for each journey for airport check-in … Some other airlines do it, too, such as Wizz Air, which charges £36.50 per person per flight for airport check-in, while easyJet is one that doesn’t charge extra for this.”

Rory Boland , the editor of Which? Travel , says Jet2.com “distinguished itself as the pick of the pack, with passengers not only praising its excellent customer service and value for money but also rating the boarding experience and cabin cleanliness highly. Proof that it is possible to have great customer service at a good price.”

He says passengers planning to take luggage should always price up the total cost of their ticket rather than just the headline fare. “You may find airlines with more generous free baggage allowance, like Jet2 and British Airways, work out cheaper than Ryanair and easyJet once you have added on the cost of a bag or two.”

Boland reckons that paying for priority boarding or to make seat selections “will usually be a waste of money for most people. In the past, our research has found that as long as you check in early, you’ll usually be seated together. The only exception to this rule is if you’re flying with Ryanair.”

This is a big deal for a lot of people. The Which? survey includes details on each airline’s “seat pitch”: the distance between two rows in standard economy.

Wizz Air is one of the least generous on this front, with a seat pitch of 28in (71.12cm), although to be fair, at Jet2, the range is between 28in and 31in, so you may not fare much better on one of its flights. Some may be surprised to learn that, at 30in, Ryanair is very slightly more generous than easyJet (29in). Flying BA will often give you more legroom: its seat pitch figure is 29in to 34in. At Tui Airways, it is 28in to 34in.

Seats with more legroom are often available, although you will usually have to pay extra. For example, Ryanair’s extra legroom seats cost from £14 upwards. These are located in rows one, two, 16 and 17 and typically boast 40 inches of legroom.

EasyJet charges a fee for customers to choose their seats. A seat in the first row with extra legroom starts at £12.99. For an extra legroom seat towards the front or over the wing, it’s “from £7.99”.

At Wizz Air, if you buy the Wizz Plus bundle, this includes free seat selection, including front row and extra legroom seats.

Bags and luggage

Many of the airlines offer a bewildering array of options. At Ryanair, passengers can bring one small bag – up to 40cm x 20cm x 25cm (15.7in x 7.8in x 9.8in) – on board free of charge, and it must fit under the seat in front. Priority boarding, which also allows travellers to skip the main queue, allows customers to bring a second cabin bag (up to 10kg and 55cm x 40cm x 20cm) and costs between £6 and £35.99.

In terms of Ryanair, Which? advises people to “do your maths first before booking to see if better rivals, like Jet2, which includes a much larger free luggage allowance, are cheaper for your trip”.

Jet2 lets you carry on board one piece of hand luggage for free, as long as it weighs no more than 10kg and is a maximum of 56cm x 45cm x 25cm.

At easyJet, passengers can bring a small cabin bag (45cm x 36cm x 20cm) on board for free, which must fit under the seat in front, while the price for a large cabin bag (maximum 56cm x 45cm x 25cm) starts at £5.99. It is worth knowing that booking an extra legroom seat also gets you a large cabin bag plus speedy boarding.

Like Ryanair, Wizz Air lets people bring on board one carry-on bag for free, although the maximum size is slightly bigger: 40cm x 30cm x 20cm.

Norwegian has three ticket levels – LowFare, LowFare+ and Flex – each of which comes with its own baggage allowance. Everyone can bring one under-seat bag – up to 30cm x 20cm x 38cm – to be stored under the seat in front.

If you are just booking a Tui Airways flight you can carry one piece of hand luggage of up to 10kg for free. It can be up to 55cm x 40cm x 20cm in size and can go into the overhead storage compartments.

Customer service and complaints

Which? says that this year, with strikes and staff shortages, “it pays to pay attention to those airlines that look after customers when something goes wrong”.

Jet2 was one of only two airlines out of more than 20 (the other was Finnair) that received the full five stars for customer service. This rated the quality of the service provided by on-ground and onboard staff. Meanwhile, Wizz Air was the only one that was given only two stars. Ryanair, easyJet, BA and Tui received three stars.

A look at last-minute cancellation rates (within 24 hours of departure) suggests Ryanair is a fair bit more reliable than easyJet. At Ryanair the rate was 0.5% – a lot lower than easyJet’s 1.3%. BA lost a lot of marks for this – its last-minute cancellation rate was put at 2.3%. By contrast, at Tui Airways, Jet2 and Norwegian, the figure was 0.3%, 0.5% and 0.6% respectively.

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TUI Nears Pre-Pandemic Activity As It Prepares For Busy Winter

• TUI expects its strong summer performance to continue into the winter season, allowing it to meet its earnings target for the year.
• The aviation industry has experienced a strong rebound, with 13.7 million bookings for TUI this summer, just 4% short of pre-pandemic levels.
• Bookings for winter 2023 are already up 15% compared to last year, and prices are 4% higher, indicating a strong quarter performance.

The TUI group has released its forecast for the fourth quarter of 2023. The report shows that the company expects its strong summer performance to carry into the winter season, allowing it to meet its earnings target for the year.

TUI and tourism

The TUI group operates five airlines with a combined fleet of 130 aircraft: TUI Airways , TUI Fly , TUI Fly Belgium, TUI Fly Netherlands, and TUI Fly Nordic. The airlines the group operates are centered around medium and long-haul flights.

In addition to its airlines, the company also has 1,200 travel agencies, more than 400 hotels, 16 cruise liners, and much more. Therefore, the TUI group's report is a good representation of the current state of the aviation industry.

Summer 2023 performance

Last year, the aviation industry began its strong rebound after the COVID-19 pandemic. The projections for 2023 showed that global travel will eventually reach and perhaps exceed pre-pandemic levels.

The increase in travelers and ticket prices has made the aviation industry more profitable than ever. Over the course of this Summer, the TUI has seen 13.7 million bookings, which is 5% more than last season and 4% short of pre-pandemic levels.

The end-of-season numbers are 1.1 million bookings higher than the last update. In comparison to the Summer of 2022, the final month of the Summer, the group witnessed a significant increase in bookings—nearly 8%. In addition, key markets such as Greece and Turkey have seen a season extension in order to accommodate the extra demand.

Finally, the Advanced Study Programs (ASP) for this Summer is up 27% when compared to pre-pandemic levels, with an increase of 8% versus last season. Higher than the levels expected during the third quarter.

Winter 2023 performance

The impressive increase in travel is expected to continue. Bookings are already up 15% in comparison to last year. Prices are also 4% higher than last season, translating to a strong quarter performance.

In the United Kingdom, 38% of the season has already been sold. Compared to last year, bookings are up 8%, while ASP is up 3%. In addition, expectations for Holiday Experiences trading match up to the forecasted values.

Q4 expectations

This year's uptick in travel and bookings has increased the expectations for TUI group's Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT) for 2023. Things are looking promising, especially for the airlines that TUI operates, due to the marked increase in travel worldwide.

The group's full results will be released on December 6th, 2023.

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Planning a vacation here’s your 2024 summer travel insurance guide.

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The joy of a summer vacation. But do you have protection for your trip?

Planning a vacation this summer? Yeah, you and just about everyone else.

More than 9 out of 10 Americans say they'll travel more this year, according to a recent Nationwide Travel Insurance survey . Most of those trips will happen in June, July and August.

Not just that, but 40 percent of the respondents say they'll spend more this year than last year. So how do you protect your vacation investment?

Travel insurance is the standard answer, but what kind of insurance — and how do you find it? That's the question many Americans are wrestling with as they make their travel plans.

Protecting your vacation is a serious concern this summer, experts say.

“Travelers are beefing up their trip protection with security advisory and extraction protection," notes Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies .

It's not just that they're spending more. It's that there's more to lose. The ongoing war in Ukraine, the Hamas attacks on Israel, and other violent conflicts have made travel insurance a key part of trip planning.

This summer may break travel records, experts say.

Samsung Issues Critical Update For Millions Of Galaxy Users

Ufc 300 results bonus winners after historic event, ufc 300 results winners and losers from pereira vs hill fight card, it's going to be a busy summer for travel.

Overall policy sales for the 2024 summer travel season are up this year, but there's a spike in sales for policies in August, which is typically the busiest time of the summer. "Sales are up more than 25% over last year," says Stan Sandberg, co-founder of travel insurance site TravelInsurance.com .

Western Europe continues to be the most popular summer destination for Americans, with some notable hotspots. Travel insurance sales for Greece are up over 60% this year compared with 2023, followed by Norway and Portugal, which are up 57% and 52%, respectively, according to Sandberg.

Everyone's travel insurance needs are different, according to the pros.

What should you insure when you travel this summer?

Laura Heidt, the insurance desk manager for Brownell Travel in Birmingham, Ala., says there are some things every travel insurance policy should cover this summer.

"I always recommend people insure for the unexpected, such as flight delays, missed connections and medical coverage while out of the country," she says. "If you are willing to forgo the cancellation and delay coverages, which are typically the most expensive parts of a policy, you should still, absolutely, cover yourself with at least the medical component."

Heidt says she's seen a 10% boost in travel insurance sales for this summer compared with the same time last year, and many people are opting for the pricier "cancel for any reason" policies, which allow you to cancel your trip and receive a partial refund of your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses.

Travel insurance companies are seeing a similar trend.

"A majority of travelers choose a comprehensive travel insurance plan which includes coverage for trip cancellation, emergency medical, lost or delayed baggage and delay," explains Tim Dodge, vice president of marketing at Arch RoamRight .

He says this year, travelers are purchasing travel insurance on average within 11 days of their trip deposit to receive the additional benefit of the waiver exclusion for pre-existing conditions.

If you're traveling with kids, you'll need extra travel insurance protection.

Get a policy that's tailored to your needs

Travel insurance comes in all shapes and sizes. So you'll want to try a few on for size before you buy. You can actually do that, since most policies have a "free look" period that makes them fully refundable for the first week or two (depending on the policy).

"It's important to consider your specific travel plans and any potential disruptions in order to protect your investment," says Robert Gallagher, president of the US Travel Insurance Association (USTIA).

He says traditional plans offer coverage for unexpected cancellations, interruptions, delays, emergency medical expenses and lost or delayed baggage. For international travel, USTIA advises opting for a plan with emergency medical and medical evacuation coverage.

It also depends on who you're traveling with. For example, if you're traveling with your children, you'll want to consider a family-friendly priced travel insurance plan. But your destination also matters, says Carol Mueller, vice president at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP).

"For young families, I typically recommend the ExactCare plan due to its pricing of two children at no additional cost for every one adult on the policy," she says. "However, for families venturing abroad, I’d suggest considering a plan like BHTP's LuxuryCare, which is designed to meet the distinctive needs of a high-investment vacation.”

You have choices when it comes to family coverage. For example, Allianz’s OneTrip Prime plan also includes coverage for kids 17 and younger when traveling with a parent or grandparent.

Medical evacuations can be expensive.

Look beyond travel insurance for extra protection

Mike Hallman, CEO of the air medical transport and travel security program Medjet , says MedjetHorizon memberships are selling briskly. They offer 24/7 security and crisis response, as well as transportation to a hospital at home if you're injured. Travelers are skittish even if they aren't going bungee-jumping.

"With geopolitical tensions still growing — all the riots in France, Italy, Ecuador and other tourist destinations over the last year — and crime causing the threat level to be raised for the Bahamas and Jamaica, it’s no wonder," he adds.

He makes a good point. Travel insurance can cover many of the events you're likely to encounter, such as a missed connection, lost luggage or a medical emergency. But it's also important to know what isn't covered — and to make plans accordingly.

Beware of travel insurance "overconfidence"

The summer travel season is still a few months away, but insurance experts are worried. Yes, they've seen a general uptick in insurance sales, but some travelers remain unprotected.

"We've started to see early signs that travelers are exercising less caution and are slightly less likely to sign up for travel insurance," says Joe Cronin, CEO of International Citizens Insurance .

By comparison, travelers purchased plenty of medical insurance in 2020 and 2021 because of the pandemic. Cronin believes travelers were terrified of getting stuck with COVID-19 in a foreign country without insurance.

"To those who are thinking about traveling internationally without travel insurance, my recommendation is to spend a few minutes looking deeper before deciding," he adds.

Some types of insurance, such as a standalone medical policy, cost just a few dollars a day. A medical evacuation membership is also affordable. And even full-featured travel insurance policies can be cost-effective when you consider the benefits.

"Don’t put your summer travel memories, or your investment, at risk by forgoing the right vacation coverage," says Daniel Durazo, director of communications at Allianz Partners USA . "With international travel peaking during the summer season, an unprotected trip can leave travelers on the hook for costs resulting from an unexpected trip delay or medical emergency abroad."

Bottom line: Seriously consider travel insurance to protect your trip — and don't be overconfident. You never know what might happen this summer.

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