Plan your perfect getaway for 2026!

Whether you’re dreaming of sun-soaked beaches, a weekend city escape, or a family holiday full of memories, early planning can make your trip smoother, cheaper, and stress-free.

Our latest member survey found that 16% of Harp and Crown CU members who took out a loan did so for holiday travel.

Trending Travel Hotspots for 2026

According to travel trend forecasts, these destinations are set to be among the top choices for 2026:

• Spain, Italy, and Greece

• Iceland and The Nordics

• USA and Canada

• Caribbean and Bahamas

• South Africa

• New Zealand

Many travellers are also choosing lesser-known gems for better value and fewer crowds, including Croatia, Lithuania, Morocco, Japan, and Vietnam.

What You Might Expect to Spend

Holiday prices can vary based on timing, accommodation, and destination, but here’s a helpful guide to average 2026 costs:

• Weekend city break (2–3 nights in Europe): from around £150–£600 per person (flights and hotel).

• One-week holiday (Mediterranean or USA city break): typically, £600–£1,600+ per person.

• Two-week getaway (long-haul destinations like the Caribbean, South Africa, or New Zealand): around £2,000–£4,000+ per person, depending on flight class, hotel choice, and excursions.

Planning ahead means you can watch for deals, spread out payments, and avoid last-minute price hikes.

Why It Pays to Book Early

With demand for travel continuing to grow, holiday and flight prices are forecast to rise in 2026. In addition, UK Air Passenger Duty (APD), a tax on flights that is usually passed on to passengers, will increase from 1 April 2026:

• Economy short-haul flights: +£2 (currently £13, rising to £15)

• Economy long-haul flights: +£12 (currently £94, rising to £106)

• Premium economy, business and first class: even higher increases.

Make Your Travel Plans Happen with Harp and Crown CU

• Use our new savings pots feature in your online banking account. Set up a pot for your holiday and create targets with specific amounts and dates.

• Boost your savings by increasing your monthly Direct Debit or Payroll contribution.

• Borrow up to 5× your savings to fund your trip (Ts & Cs apply).

• Try our Flexi-Loan – borrow up to £3,000 and repay just £97 per month (Ts & Cs apply).

Get in touch with us today!

Email creditunion@harpandcrown.co.uk. 

“Save regularly and borrow only what you need.”

The Harp and Crown Credit Union provides safe, ethical and flexible finances to the Police and wider Police family in Northern Ireland.