A neutral overview of cost drivers in the UK travel market and a practical way to compare holidays using total trip cost (TCO), not just headline prices.
Report ID: UK-25-12 • Date: Dec 15, 2025
In 2025, many UK travellers compare holiday options under budget pressure and operational constraints across the sector. While individual providers vary, the most consistent consumer challenge is comparing like-for-like costs across different formats.
The final total can differ from the headline price depending on what is bundled vs. itemised separately. The table below summarises common cost elements. These patterns vary by provider and itinerary.
| Cost Element | Hotel-based Holidays | Cruise-style Holidays | Practical implication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport | Often flights/rail + transfers | Often domestic travel to port + transfers | Transport can be a major variance driver. |
| Meals & beverages | May be separate (depending on board basis) | Often bundled to a greater extent (depends on product) | Check what is included vs. optional. |
| Mandatory fees / charges | May be bundled or itemised (depends on policy) | May be bundled or itemised (depends on policy) | Review the price breakdown before purchase. |
| Activities & excursions | Often optional add-ons | Often optional add-ons | Budget for preferred activity level. |
TCO is a budgeting approach. Start with the advertised price, then add predictable categories of spend. Actual totals vary by season, destination, and traveller behaviour.
The purpose of scenarios is to demonstrate the comparison method, not to claim a universal price advantage. A traveller can build a simple model using their own assumptions (group size, meal plan, transfer needs, activities).
This report was prepared by GTAI Research. A research partner (Metropolis Cruise) supports the production of some analytical materials. The partner does not control the methodology or conclusions.