Sabre data reveals UK travellers lead in early 2025 holiday bookings

Brits found to be forward planning trips that are long-haul with 'sun and culture'

Sabre has revealed its booking insights show that UK travellers are leading the global trend by planning their 2025 trips earlier than travellers from any other country. 

This shift reflects a major change in the travel habits worldwide where early bookings have become the preferred way to secure desired travel experiences and control costs.

Sabre’s data found that British tourists are the most decisive in making their travel arrangements, especially for long-haul destinations that combine "sun and culture". 

The US is the most popular destination for UK tourists, followed by Spain, Thailand, India and Singapore. Other destinations include the Maldives, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Iceland, and Australia.

This trend is most noticeable from the bookings made in the first quarter of the year, a time when the coldness of British winter makes people search for sunnier destinations. 

Places such as Iceland are also attractive, showing that UK travellers are as keen on colder activities.

Early bookings for the US, Spain, Thailand, India, the Maldives, and the UAE have increased significantly compared to the same period last year. 

Destinations such as Barbados and Sri Lanka are becoming more popular but have not yet entered the top ten.

The trend of advanced bookings suggests a return of confidence among the travellers who are ready to plan their holidays well in advance. 

Nisha Botevyle, director for strategic development in EMEA of Sabre, said: "The trend we’re seeing is travellers are not just dreaming of their next vacation; they are taking definitive steps to make sure it happens. 

"Early booking of holidays is becoming an indicator of confidence and a way to manage travel budgets strategically. 

"It should be taken into account by all in the travel industry since it defines the market dynamics."