Why holiday bookings are expected to surge at 6.30pm on Christmas Eve

Tonight, on this Christmas Eve, many Brits will be spending quality time with their family and friends, enjoying the festivities.

But tens of thousands are expected to be booking holidays this evening, too. 

A huge surge in bookings for trips abroad is set to happen at 6.30pm today (December 24).

Experts from On The Beach have revealed that Brits are turning to sunshine holidays for last-minute Christmas gifts.

It's a trend that has been repeated over the last three years, with bookings abroad rising steadily each time.   

Some 22 per cent of Brits admitted they purchased a holiday for someone on Christmas Eve as a last-minute present for the next day. 

On the other hand, 17 per cent have treated themselves to a trip away too, according to the research.

The holiday company predicts the trend could happen this year, and Zoe Harris from On the Beach described the trick as the 'ultimate Christmas save'.

The chief customer officer said: 'If you've forgotten a present or suddenly realised what you've bought is a bit rubbish, don't panic, a holiday is the ultimate Christmas save.

'There's no awkward fake smile on Christmas morning and it beats a panic bought candle every time.

'It's one of those presents that punches well above its weight. You can secure a holiday with a £30 per person deposit, spread the cost over the months ahead, and still feel like you've absolutely smashed Christmas.'

Aside from Christmas Eve, the big day itself is also a popular time for Brits to book a holiday.

Thousands were purchased last year on Christmas Day and the peak time was at around 11am. 

Destinations including Tenerife, Antalya and Majorca were the most-booked last year and On The Beach thinks the same three could be at the top again.

It's thought tomorrow -  could be another good day for bookings. 

Zoe added: 'I've never done it myself, but I love the idea of it, opening your presents, booking a holiday and then sitting down to Christmas dinner feeling smug as anything knowing next year's sunshine is already sorted. 

'It's hard to top that festive feeling.'

The travel company expects Egypt to be popular this year and revealed bookings to the destination have doubled compared to 2023.

Sharm El Sheikh in particular has made its way into the top seven most-booked locations for next year.