As the January gloom settles in, many Brits find solace in planning their summer escapes. However, the financial burden of flights, accommodation, excursions, and spending money can make booking a holiday feel daunting. While traditional travel hacks—like booking flights on a Tuesday to save 1.3% or using duty-free bags for carry-ons—offer some relief, the most astute travellers are now embracing a new strategy: the 'wonky holiday'. According to a recent report from travel company First Choice, making unconventional adjustments to your break can lead to substantial savings, transforming how you approach vacation planning.
What Exactly Is a 'Wonky Holiday'?
First Choice conducted an in-depth analysis of all its online package holiday bookings from January 2024 to November 2025, examining factors such as trip durations, departure and arrival airports, day-of-week travel patterns, and seasonal pricing trends. The findings highlight a compelling trend: travellers who opt for odd-length stays, such as five or 11 nights instead of the standard seven or 14, can pay up to 13% less per night. This simple tweak has the potential to reduce overall holiday costs by double digits, yet it remains underutilised, with standard durations accounting for 70% of all bookings.
Kevin Nelson, managing director at First Choice, emphasised the benefits of this approach. He noted, 'Wonky durations can result in big savings. While traditional trip lengths may be tidier from an annual leave perspective, cost-focused customers who have a bit more flexibility should definitely consider looking at different dates for a better price-per-night.' This insight encourages holidaymakers to rethink their planning habits and explore less conventional options to maximise value.
Beyond Odd Durations: Additional 'Wonky Swaps' for Savings
The concept of a wonky holiday extends beyond just trip length. Another effective strategy is altering your travel days. For instance, flying on a Tuesday or Thursday instead of a Saturday can save around £70 per person, according to First Choice data. Additionally, switching departure or arrival airports can unlock even greater savings. The report reveals that travelling via an airport just 45 minutes further from your destination can save hundreds of pounds per passenger.
Specific examples illustrate these savings vividly. Switching from Manchester Airport to Leeds Bradford resulted in an average saving of £186 per person, while opting for London Luton over Heathrow led to a staggering £1,107 reduction in costs. By combining these wonky swaps, travellers can achieve remarkable discounts, as demonstrated in a practical example from First Choice.
Real-World Example: How Wonky Tweaks Transform Costs
Consider a seven-night stay at the Constantinou Athena Beach Hotel in Paphos with return flights from London Heathrow departing on Saturday, July 25, 2026. Typically, this package would cost approximately £1,500 per person. However, by making a few wonky adjustments—such as switching flights to London Luton and booking for Tuesday, July 14, 2026—the exact same holiday drops to just £947 per person. This represents a saving of £553, showcasing how small changes can yield significant financial benefits.
Embracing wonkiness in your travel plans not only makes holidays more affordable but also encourages a more flexible and adventurous mindset. As the data shows, these unconventional strategies are backed by solid research and real savings, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious travellers.
Debunking Upgrade Myths: A Flight Attendant's Perspective
In related travel news, a Virgin Atlantic flight attendant has addressed common misconceptions about securing flight upgrades. Contrary to popular belief, dressing smartly or bringing treats for the crew does not guarantee an upgrade. Instead, upgrades are typically based on availability, loyalty status, and operational needs. The flight attendant advises that while paying for an upgrade is often the most reliable method, asking for one at the last minute can sometimes offer a cheaper option. They explained, 'Upgrading on board is often one of the cheapest options. Simply ask any member of the cabin crew, we'll check the availability and the cost, and if you're happy with the price, we can take payment and move you as soon as possible.'
This practical advice complements the wonky holiday strategies, highlighting that savvy travel involves both planning and on-the-spot decisions. By integrating these tips, holidaymakers can enhance their experiences while keeping costs in check.
In summary, the rise of the wonky holiday represents a shift towards more intelligent and flexible travel planning. With insights from First Choice's comprehensive report, travellers are empowered to make informed choices that prioritise savings without compromising on quality. Whether it's adjusting trip durations, switching airports, or flying on less popular days, these small tweaks can lead to big rewards, making your next getaway both memorable and affordable.
