Are you planning a family vacation to Spain this summer? Be prepared for soaring temperatures, and potentially, soaring prices. A new study from Post Office Travel has uncovered a startling trend: family holiday costs in Spain increase by a substantial £96 for every additional degree of heat.
The research examined the prices of flights and accommodation for a typical family of four (two adults and two teenagers) traveling for a week in various destinations. In Benidorm, Spain, a week-long trip in May, when the temperature was a comfortable 22 degrees, cost a family £803. However, that price skyrocketed to £1,570 in August when the temperature hit 30 degrees, demonstrating a staggering £96 increase for every extra degree.
This trend isn’t exclusive to Spain. The study revealed similar price hikes across multiple popular destinations. For example, a family trip to Cyprus in May, with temperatures around 24 degrees, cost £737. But in July, when the mercury climbed to 30 degrees, the cost soared to £1,272, translating to £89 per degree increase.
While some destinations, like Greece, offer more reasonable price fluctuations, others, like Florida, exhibit a drastic price jump. A week-long trip to Florida in May, with an average temperature of 29 degrees, cost a family £2,100. However, the price nearly doubled to £4,043 in August, when temperatures were just two degrees higher at 31 degrees, adding up to a massive £972 per degree increase.
The study highlights the substantial price differences families can face depending on when they choose to travel. Laura Plunkett, head of Post Office Travel, acknowledges the growing difficulty in budgeting for family holidays, especially during school holidays. She suggests considering alternative travel times, such as October half term, for potentially significant savings.
For instance, a Cyprus vacation in October can be £321 cheaper than an August trip, despite still enjoying balmy 25-degree temperatures. Similarly, a Florida trip in October can save families £406 compared to August, with only a two-degree temperature difference.
This study serves as a valuable reminder for families to carefully consider travel dates, particularly when it comes to destinations known for their hot climates. By opting for slightly cooler travel windows, families can potentially save substantial amounts of money, allowing them to enjoy their holidays without breaking the bank.
