Recent analysis indicates that the cost of flights to hotspots in Europe such as Spain, Greece, and Portugal has risen notably higher than the general inflation rate in the last four years.
However, some holiday spots are actually cheaper now than before the pandemic.
Brits paying far more for getaways now than pre-pandemic
New data collected by the flight comparison website Hopper, for The Mirror, shows that Brits are currently paying more for flights for winter vacations compared to January 2020.
The study looked at the typical prices for a “good deal” on flights, which is what an average leisure traveler might pay, for over 200 airlines flying to and from popular European vacation destinations.
The comparison was made between the end of January 2020 and 2024.
This comes as inflation in the UK has risen to 4% in January 2024.
While most routes saw smaller increases than that, prices still outpaced wages for many Brits.
Spain, Greece, and Portugal see biggest hikes
Out of all the destinations analyzed, Minorca Island in Spain had the biggest price increase over the last four years. The cost of round-trip flights went up by a huge 63%, from £178 to £291.
Had tickets simply followed inflation, they would currently cost £232.
Other popular Spanish destinations also got pricier, with Barcelona flights up 30% to £187 and Malaga up 28% to £246.
Several Greek islands and cities in Portugal also experienced higher-than-average price increases, surpassing the UK's inflation rate.
Ticket prices to Faro were 19% higher at £234, while Mykonos saw a 22% increase, with tickets now costing £340.
Cheaper options spotted
The analysis found some cheaper flight options as well.
Fares to the Portuguese city of Funchal decreased by 20% to £207. This is significantly lower than the inflation-adjusted price of £338.
Additional bargains were found in Lesbos, Greece at 15% less for £321, and Souda, Greece at 13% cheaper for £318.
Spain’s Tenerife and Turkey’s Antalya also beat inflation, with prices down 13% and 5% respectively.
EU travelers face rising costs
The analysis shows worrying trends for UK travelers who want to visit places like Spain and Greece, which have become more expensive.
Starting in 2025, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be launched, which means travelers will have to pay €7 for authorization to enter the Schengen Area.
This adds to the already high costs of flights, making trips even more expensive.
UK travelers may need to budget more for Mediterranean getaways than in the past. Families, in particular, could feel the strain, especially if booking multiple tickets.
The developments do not bode well for long-term travelers either.
Digital nomads, students, and individuals living abroad in the Iberian Peninsula might find it challenging to afford the increasing cost of living, which is growing faster than the wages in the region.
However, for travelers who can be flexible with their plans, choosing to visit or live in cheaper places could reduce the total expenses for their vacation or move.
These trends suggest that EU countries might need to think about offering special perks to attract specific groups if prices keep going up disproportionately.
Planning for best prices key to high-value travel
The analysis shows holidaymakers should plan and be flexible if looking for flight deals. Traveling to popular destinations like Spain and Greece can be expensive.
However, those looking to save money can consider visiting less well-known spots like Funchal or Lesbos. These places can still offer great deals for travelers who are on a tighter budget.