The cost of family Easter holidays has skyrocketed by as much as £220 per person in some destinations, as the ongoing Middle East conflict continues to reshape travel patterns and pricing across Europe. The war, which erupted in late February, has not only influenced where British families are choosing to vacation but also triggered significant fluctuations in holiday costs, with potential for even greater disruption looming over the summer season.
Shifting Destinations and Price Volatility
Travel firms have reported a noticeable decline in interest for holidays to countries such as Turkey and Egypt, which are geographically closer to the turmoil in the Middle East. In response, many Brits are now pivoting towards popular destinations in the western Mediterranean and beyond, including Spain and Portugal, where demand remains robust.
Research conducted by TravelSupermarket, which compared prices for a seven-night family holiday during the first week of the Easter break before and after the conflict began, reveals a complex picture of price movements. While some destinations have become more affordable, others have seen sharp increases, reflecting both the crisis's impact on demand and normal booking dynamics, where prices often rise as departure dates approach.
Notable Price Changes
According to the analysis, the average cost of a week in Dalaman, Turkey, has dropped to £508.43 per person, down from £556.69 before the war—a saving of over £190 for a family of four. Similarly, Croatia has seen a decrease, with prices now at £576.20 compared to £608.46 previously.
However, other hotspots have experienced significant price hikes. For instance, a week in Majorca now costs £570.26 per person, up from £515.62, representing an increase of £53.64 each or £218 for a family of four. Ibiza has also seen a modest rise, from £532 to £540 per person.
Chris Webber, head of holidays and deals at TravelSupermarket, commented on the trends: "Easter is one of the busiest times of year for family holidays, and prices naturally rise as departure dates get closer and availability starts to run out—that’s just supply and demand, not operators cashing in. It’s why we always tell families to compare prices early and book as soon as they find something they’re happy with."
Exceptions and Opportunities
Despite the overall trend of rising costs, there are exceptions. For example, the average price for a week on Spain's Costa Brava has decreased to £430.20 per person from £445.80. Corfu stands out as the only major Greek island where prices have fallen, offering potential value for families still making decisions.
Webber added: "What’s interesting is that some destinations have actually got cheaper since the start of the year. Corfu is the standout—it’s the only major Greek island where prices have fallen, so there’s real value to be had there for families still deciding. Dalaman in Turkey has also got cheaper, and that may be down to some travellers having second thoughts about the region amid the wider uncertainty in the Middle East—with operators responding with more competitive pricing to keep bookings coming in."
Future Implications and Summer Concerns
The impact on holiday prices is expected to persist and potentially intensify beyond the Easter period, extending into the summer months. A surge in oil prices and a potential shortage of jet fuel could lead to higher airfares and possible flight cancellations, especially if the conflict remains unresolved.
TravelSupermarket's data highlights the average price per person for a week to various popular destinations before and after the Middle East war began for the same Easter week:
- Costa Brava: Now - £430.20, Before - £445.80
- Kos: Now - £439.17, Before - £417.44
- Dalaman Area: Now - £508.43, Before - £556.69
- Menorca: Now - £510.02, Before - £448.16
- Corfu: Now - £536.93, Before - £656.77
- Ibiza: Now - £540.88, Before - £532.94
- Costa Blanca: Now - £545.49, Before - £519.93
- Majorca: Now - £570.26, Before - £515.62
- Costa Del Sol: Now - £575.34, Before - £564.89
- Croatia: Now - £576.20, Before - £608.46
Webber concluded: "There are still great Easter deals out there for families who act now—and the easiest way to find them is to compare at TravelSupermarket." As the situation evolves, travellers are advised to stay informed and book early to secure the best possible rates amidst the ongoing uncertainty.
