Following two summers of limited travel, many holidaymakers are still considering where and how best to travel this summer but may run the risk of missing out if they don’t book soon, the group claimed.
The latest research from the consortium reports consumers may still be able to find some late summer availability, but with many tour operators reporting capacity and promotional offers are now in short supply, availability is limited.
The advice comes on the back of some hesitancy around summer bookings earlier this year with people preferring to not book too far ahead. However, with many of the larger tour operators ending their high-season promotional offers, pent-up demand caused by the pandemic is now bringing holiday companies close to full capacity.
Kelly Cookes, leisure director for Advantage, said customers remain "indecisive" about whether to take a summer holiday this year.
"The problem is that if they don’t book now, they may not find what they want at a price they want to pay," she added. "There is still some summer availability, particularly with cruise lines, and for others wanting to plan ahead, we’re now seeing promotions for September and October, as well as for departures in summer 2023.
"Securing these offers now might be the best bet, especially for those wanting to take into account the rising cost of living that could hit their pockets hard next year."
Advantage said there are still "pockets of availability" for some destinations that have previously attracted a Russian market and others that are reliant on the US, who in many cases are avoiding Europe due to the situation in the Ukraine, but availability is becoming "more limited" by the day.
"For the latest holiday advice, consumers should speak to their local travel agent about availability and offers whether that’s for this summer or planning ahead," Cookes added.
"They not only have vast knowledge of the Covid entry rules for each destination, but passport requirements too. Seeking professional advice will save time, get consumers the best deal, and avoid the unnecessary upset that can come if current travel issues aren’t thoroughly considered."
