Travel Experts Reveal the Best Time to Book and Visit Long-Haul Destinations in 2026

UK travellers are more determined than ever to prioritise holidays, with overseas travel firmly at the top of the agenda despite ongoing economic pressures. According to ABTA’s Holiday Habits 2025-26 report, 87% of people took a holiday in the past year, with 59% travelling abroad, highlighting a sustained appetite for international escapes.*

With two-thirds of Brits (65%) saying their holiday is the most important time of the year, rising to over 80% among younger travellers and families with young children, travel is increasingly seen as a non-negotiable. In fact, holidays are now the last area people are willing to cut back on, with just 28% saying they would reduce travel spending to manage day-to-day costs.

As beach breaks, cultural experiences and once-in-a-lifetime long-haul trips continue to dominate wish lists, destinations offering guaranteed sunshine, standout experiences and strong value for money are seeing particularly strong demand. Travel specialists at Away Holidays say that choosing the right time to visit and book can make a significant difference in terms of weather, crowds, availability, and overall value, especially during peak travel periods in 2026.

To help travellers plan ahead, Away Holidays has highlighted the best times to visit and book three of the most popular long-haul destinations.

Maldives

Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season)
Best Time to Book: 6-8 months in advance
Peak Season: December to April

The Maldives’ dry season offers warm temperatures averaging around 30°C, low humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for travellers seeking winter sun. While December to April is peak season, booking early helps secure the best resorts, flight options and value, particularly for in-demand overwater villas. For those with flexibility, the wet season from May to November can offer fewer crowds and lower prices, with tropical showers typically short-lived.

Thailand

Best Time to Visit: November to March
Best Time to Book: 6-9 months in advance
Peak Season: December to February

Thailand’s dry season brings warm, sunny days with lower humidity and little rainfall, making it perfect for exploring cities such as Bangkok, relaxing on beaches or island-hopping in destinations like Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui. While the rainy season from June to October offers lower prices and fewer crowds, peak season remains the most popular period and requires early booking, particularly around Christmas, New Year and school holidays.

Dubai

Best Time to Visit: November to April
Best Time to Book: 6-9 months in advance for peak season
Peak Season: January and February

Dubai offers year-round sunshine, but the most comfortable conditions fall between November and April, when temperatures range from 20-30°C and outdoor activities are at their best. While winter months are the busiest and most expensive, shoulder seasons offer a balance of warm weather and better value. Summer delivers exceptional luxury deals, with reduced hotel rates and world-class indoor attractions helping travellers beat the heat.

Neela Goyal, Product Manager at Away Holidays, said, “With holidays becoming a stronger priority within household budgets, we’re seeing growing demand for long-haul destinations like the Maldives for 2026. Travellers want guaranteed sunshine, space to relax and experiences that feel truly special.

“Booking early gives customers access to the best resorts, flight options and prices before peak-season demand drives them up. If the Maldives is on your wish list for 2026, securing it well in advance is the smartest way to travel with confidence.”

She added, “Thailand continues to be one of the most popular long-haul destinations because it offers incredible variety; from stunning beaches and islands to culture, food and adventure, all at fantastic value.

“Travellers are being more strategic with their bookings, and understanding Thailand’s seasons helps them get the best experience possible. Booking early secures the best flights, hotels and availability, particularly for peak travel periods. For anyone considering Thailand in the next couple of years, planning ahead is the smartest move.”

Neela Goyal also commented, “Dubai remains one of the most versatile destinations for holidaygoers. Whether travellers are looking for winter sun, luxury beach resorts, shopping, culture or unbeatable summer value, Dubai delivers year-round.

“What really matters is matching the time of travel to what the customer wants from their holiday. Booking early is key for peak-season travel, while summer bookings can unlock exceptional luxury experiences at surprisingly affordable prices.”

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