With the new year around the corner, you might be thinking about planning your 2025 holiday.  There are multiple factors to consider to make sure you get the most out of your time away, but if you’re wondering where to start, then our guide is here to help you plan your well-deserved break.

2025 Trends

The travel industry is constantly evolving, with several key trends to consider for 2025 holidays:

  • Detour destinations: Think about visiting less-crowded alternatives to popular tourist spots.  For instance, instead of Paris, destinations like Reims are gaining attention for their unique charm, reduced crowds and hidden gems.
  • Goods getaways: There’s a growing interest in travelling to destinations renowned for specific products, such as local crafts or culinary specialties.  This trend allows you to immerse yourself in local culture and bring home unique souvenirs.
  • All-inclusive experiences: All-inclusive resorts are experiencing a resurgence and are particularly popular among those seeking hassle-free vacations with bundled services.

Maximising Bank Holidays

Strategically planning your time off around bank holidays can extend your leave without using additional days.  There are 10 annual bank holiday days in Ireland with multiple opportunities to enjoy extended breaks.  For example, taking leave on 22-25 April around Easter Monday provides a nine-day holiday using just four leave days’ worth of leave.

Other opportunities include May Day and August, if you prefer to take your holiday in the spring or summer months.

Budgeting and Booking Strategies

Effective budgeting and booking are crucial for a cost-effective holiday and you should consider the following to get the best deals:

  • Early booking: Secure flights and accommodation well in advance to benefit from lower prices and better availability.
  • Flexibility: You’re more likely to find good deals if you can be flexible with your destination.
  • Travel dates: Travelling during off-peak or mid-week can result in significant savings.
  • Package deals: Consider all-inclusive packages that bundle flights, accommodations, and activities, often at a reduced cost.
  • Loyalty programs: Utilise airline and hotel loyalty programs as well as discount codes to earn points and access exclusive offers.

New Travel Regulations

Starting in 2025, new travel regulations come into effect that you might need to be aware of:

  • UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): From 2 April 2025, some nationalities will need to obtain an ETA to enter the UK.  Currently, Irish citizens do not need an ETA but it’s important to stay up to date on any changes.
  • EU’s European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS): The EU plans to implement ETIAS in 2025, requiring non-EU travellers, including UK citizens, to obtain travel authorisation before entering the Schengen Area.  Irish citizens, however, are exempt due to Ireland’s non-participation in the Schengen Area.

It’s also vital to remain up to date with official foreign travel advice and visa requirements and ensure your passport is valid before visiting any country.

From uncovering hidden gems to embracing new trends, travel in 2025 is an opportunity to consider how and why we explore the world.