ITAA Urges People to Book 2027 Holidays Now to Avoid Higher Prices Brought on by Fuel Cost Pressures
Irish holidaymakers planning to travel in 2027 are being advised to consider booking their holidays now, as rising fuel costs could place further upward pressure on the price of flights and holidays over the coming months.
The advice was delivered to members of the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) attending the Association’s Annual Conference in Costa Daurada, Spain, where travel agents and industry partners are meeting to discuss the outlook for the Irish travel industry.
ITAA President Tom Randles said consumers who already know where and when they want to travel should consider securing their 2027 holiday sooner rather than later.
“Our message to consumers is simple: if you know you want to travel in 2027, now is a very good time to speak to your travel agent and look at securing your holiday," Mr Randles said.
“Fuel is a significant cost for the aviation industry, and we are seeing considerable volatility in fuel prices. While nobody can say with certainty exactly how prices will move, the expectation is that higher fuel costs will increasingly feed through into the cost of operating flights and, ultimately, holidays.
“By booking now, consumers have an opportunity to lock in the price of their holiday at today’s levels rather than waiting and potentially facing higher prices later. It is particularly important for families travelling during school holidays, when demand for popular destinations and accommodation is already strong," he added.
The warning comes against a backdrop of elevated aviation fuel costs. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported significant increases in jet-fuel costs during 2026 and highlighted the pressure that higher fuel prices are placing on airlines globally. IATA has also noted that European airlines are facing significant cost pressures as existing fuel hedges expire and higher costs work their way through airline operations.
Mr Randles added that booking early is not simply about price, but also about securing the choice of flights, accommodation and dates that best suit individual travellers. “We are encouraging consumers to think about their 2027 holiday plans now. Booking early can provide greater choice and certainty, as well as protecting consumers against the possibility of future increases," he said.
“Travel agents are seeing strong demand for many destinations, and the earlier consumers engage with their travel agent, the more options they are likely to have. A travel agent can also look at the overall package and advise customers on the best options for their budget and travel requirements.”
The ITAA says that consumers should not necessarily wait for a traditional January booking period before making their plans. For those travelling at peak times or looking for specific resorts, hotels or flight schedules, early booking can be particularly important.
The Association is also reminding consumers of the value of booking through a licensed and reputable travel agent, particularly when making a significant financial commitment to a holiday.
Mr Randles concluded: “A holiday is a major purchase for most Irish families, and consumers want confidence that they are getting good value and that their travel arrangements are being properly looked after.”
“Our members have the expertise and knowledge to help customers navigate changing prices, availability and travel conditions. The advice coming from our Annual Conference is to plan ahead, talk to your travel agent and, where you find the right holiday at the right price, consider securing it now.”
The ITAA Annual Conference 2026 is being held in Costa Daurada, Spain, from 1–4 October and brings together travel professionals from across Ireland for industry discussions, supplier networking and destination experiences.
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