20% discount on registration fees available until 13 May   Registration for this year’s ABTA Travel Convention has opened, with delegates able to save 20% on registration fees if they register in the next four weeks.   ABTA’s annual Travel Convention is the UK travel industry’s flagship event, designed to connect senior leaders with an opportunity to influence the future of the sector with real, informed, intelligent insights. Industry leaders, and world-class guest speakers from beyond the sector, will offer fresh thinking and sharp perspectives to strengthen strategic decision-making and prepare the industry for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.   Delegates will gain useful time away from the everyday to connect with their peers and around 25 travel journalists from national, consumer and trade media, in a wide range of business sessions and social settings.   Taking place from 12-14 October in Funchal, Madeira, at the 5-star Savoy Palace Hotel, this year’s event is hosted by Visit Portugal and Visit Madeira and will allow delegates to explore this beautiful archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean. It offers Convention delegates a rich history and culture, and a wide range of places and activities to enjoy pre and post event with its subtropical climate, rugged mountains, lush forests and beautiful coastlines.   Funchal is readily accessible, with direct flights available from several airports in London and Manchester to Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport, which is about 20 minutes from the venue.   The 2026 Travel Convention is once again supported by Lead Partner easyJet holidays, plus Headline Partner Intrepid Travel.   Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive at ABTA – The Travel Association said:   “Our annual Travel Convention provides the ideal forum for senior travel leaders – in particular, CEOs, MDs and other leaders from ABTA member tour operators, cruise lines and travel agents – to connect and do business, while also looking ahead to the challenges and opportunities facing our sector.   “This will be the first time we’ve hosted the Convention in Madeira, so we’re really looking forward to exploring the island with delegates and our hosts giving them an unforgettable experience. Portugal and Madeira have been growing in importance as a destination for the UK travel trade.”   To register and find out more details including pricing, visit the official website.

  89% of people say they are more likely to book with an ABTA member than a company that is not and 54% say they are willing to pay more for a holiday booked through an ABTA member, according to new, independent research*. Both results are up from last year, meaning there’s no better time for members to feature the ABTA logo in their advertising and promote their ABTA membership.   The numbers of people who associate ABTA with ‘safe’, ‘reassuring’, ‘reliable’, ‘experts’ and confidence’ have also all increased, all scoring over 83%.   After new marketing and communications campaigns, there has been a seven percentage point increase in overall awareness of ABTA among 18-24 year olds – this builds on the 13 percentage point increase in awareness seen in the 2025 survey. Their familiarity with what the association does is also growing.   Additionally, 76% of consumers said they would recommend booking with an ABTA member to their friends and family.   Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive, ABTA – The Travel Association said: “The stronger the awareness of the ABTA brand – and its association with trust - the more likely customers are to look for the ABTA logo when choosing their holiday. That recognition carries even more importance in uncertain times. The results of this brand research are testament to the professionalism, dedication and hard work of ABTA members and their teams.”   ABTA has created a toolkit of materials its members can download and use to highlight these latest reasons to book and can be found in the member zone on abta.com.   *ABTA’s latest annual market research, conducted by The Nursery, surveyed 1,000 consumers nationwide between 23^rd February and 3^rd March 2026 to find out how they feel about the ABTA brand.

  ABTA’s Claire Biddle, Commercial Director, along with Shelly Beresford and Laura Stephen who job share as Head of Brand and Marketing have been included in the 2026 Women in Trade Associations Powerlist, which celebrates inspirational women in trade associations.   Launched on Friday 6 March, ahead of International Women’s Day (8 March), the Powerlist recognises those in trade associations who champion their sectors, support colleagues and deliver for their members.   As Commercial Director, Claire Biddle plays a pivotal role in ABTA meeting the evolving needs of its members while generating sustainable income from diverse sources. Claire leads the Commercial Department that includes the ABTA Partner scheme, which provides access to valuable suppliers and resources to support members, as well as ABTA events programme, which helps guide members through complex industry challenges including legal compliance, sustainability, customer experience and crisis management, among others. Claire is also responsible for ABTA’s travel insurance product.   Claire commented: “Being included in the Women in Trade Association Powerlist is a real honour for my team and me. I’m proud to represent women leading commercial operations in trade associations, and I hope this encourages others to continue pushing boundaries and championing positive change.”   In their job share role as Head of Brand and Marketing, Shelly Beresford and Laura Stephen spearhead the ABTA brand and lead their team to deliver ongoing campaigns encouraging consumers to travel with confidence.  They showcase ABTA benefits to members and equip them with toolkits and services to help them run successful businesses. They have also been regular presenters at ABTA’s travel marketing events, imparting their knowledge on the industry.   Shelly said: “It’s been an exciting year of research and campaigns supporting both consumers and our members. Being included on the Powerlist is an endorsement of the opportunities and impact job shares can bring to leading successful marketing functions in the travel industry and trade associations.”   Laura said: “It’s an honour to be recognised on the Powerlist, amongst outstanding women and to be able to celebrate our job share partnership and the work our team does to support members and consumers alike.”

ABTA has launched a new multi-media presentation toolkit to encourage people to consider careers in the travel industry. Marking National Careers Week 2 - 9 March, the presentation is a first from ABTA. It was created in response to member feedback revealing they want to give talks in schools and colleges but don't have the time to build presentations from scratch. This new resource aims to help them by providing a framework careers presentation that ABTA members can plug their own company and career information into. The toolkit provides an insight into the UK outbound travel industry, reasons to work in travel, career ideas and helpful resources for students, including apprenticeships. It also explains who ABTA is and what its members do, as well as additional travel advice from the FCDO’s Travel Aware campaign. Members can use this presentation in tandem with their own branded content for information specific to their business. The new guidance forms part of ABTA’s ongoing work on inspiring the next generation to #bepartoftravel. This can be used alongside ABTA’s other #bepartoftravel marketing toolkits which contain additional videos, visuals and information. “We want everyone to be afforded the chance to be inspired to be part of travel. This new presentation pack aims to save our members time when preparing to speak at their local schools and colleges,” Vicki Wolf, Head of Education and Career Development at ABTA said. The toolkit and guidance on its use are available in the Abta.com member zone.

ABTA is reminding members to peruse its updated note on the Competition and Markets Authority pricing guidance. It comes as the CMA made it clear that it will take enforcement action if unavoidable fees and charges payable on arrival or departure at hotels, ports or airports are not included in headline prices. This includes resort fees and local taxes. ABTA has previously issued notifications and advice to keep members informed on this key issue. It lays out potentially serious consequences for companies which have not taken appropriate steps. Paula Macfarlane ABTA Senior Solicitor said: “Although we are aware that many of our members are taking steps to comply with amended CMA pricing, it is extremely important that everyone reviews their pricing structures to ensure they are not in breach.” “To help members with this process we have published our latest guidance note, which is now available on our website exclusively to ABTA members.” The note summarises the issue and pulls together ABTA’s news and guidance issued so far. ABTA says it continues to receive queries from members. “ABTA remains in contact with the CMA, and we have asked them for clarification over a couple of areas, which we will update when this has been received.”

ABTA has appointed ex-Government minister and MP, David Rutley, to its Board of Directors. The appointment takes immediate effect. David’s last ministerial role was at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) where he was Minister for the Americas, Caribbean and Overseas Territories. His 14 years’ experience as an MP includes the position of Minister for Food and Animal Welfare, among other roles. Prior to entering politics, he held a number of Director-level roles at well-known organisations including Barclays and Asda. Ailsa Pollard, ABTA Chair, said: “David’s experience, in particular in the FCDO, will bring new insights which will support the ABTA Board in their discussions on serving our members.” The best Boards bring diverse experience and constructive challenge, and David is well placed to contribute both, offering significant and senior expertise.” "Travel and tourism is a vital and vibrant sector, making a significant contribution to the wider UK economy. In this new role, I am now looking forward to working hard for the travel industry, ABTA members and, ultimately, the millions of customers they serve,” David Rutley added.  

  The ABTA Board of Directors has appointed former Government minister and MP, David Rutley, to the Board with immediate effect.   David’s last ministerial role was at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) where he was Minister for the Americas, Caribbean and Overseas Territories. His 14 years’ experience as an MP also saw him act as Minister for Food and Animal Welfare, among other roles.   Prior to his political career, David held a number of Director-level roles at well-known organisations including Barclays and Asda.   Ailsa Pollard, ABTA Chair, said: “David’s experience, in particular in the FCDO, will bring new insights which will support the ABTA Board in their discussions on serving our members. The best Boards bring diverse experience and constructive challenge, and David is well placed to contribute both, offering significant and senior expertise in those areas of Government which are really important to our members and the sector more widely.”   David Rutley said: "Travel and tourism is a vital and vibrant sector, making a significant contribution to the wider UK economy. In my experience, I have always found ABTA to be a highly trusted organisation, with well-respected views and opinions. In this new role, I am now looking forward to working hard for the travel industry, ABTA members and, ultimately, the millions of customers they serve.”

  The ABTA Board of Directors has appointed Nicki Tempest-Mitchell, with immediate effect.   Nicki has been Managing Director of the Barrhead Travel Group since January 2025 and has over 36 years of experience across the UK travel industry, including roles at TUI, Royal Caribbean Group and Thomas Cook. Barrhead Travel Group is Scotland’s largest independent travel group and one of the largest in the UK as a whole.   Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive Officer, ABTA said: “The ABTA Board comprises people from a range of ABTA members, alongside those with experience from outside the world of travel. Nicki’s deep experience in our sector means she will bring considerable expertise, as we continue to support our members in 2026 and beyond.”   Nicki Tempest-Mitchell said: “I am proud to join ABTA’s Board of Directors and to support an organisation that plays such a critical role in our industry.  Developing talent, championing inclusion and maintaining the highest standards have been central to my career, and I welcome the opportunity to bring that focus to ABTA.  I really look forward to helping drive and support a thriving and resilient future for travel.”

  This weekend, and January as a whole, set for a surge in holiday bookings   With January traditionally one of the busiest months for people to book holidays, ABTA – The Travel Association has provided new inspiration for travellers with its annual ‘Destinations to Watch’ report.   The holiday bookings market is popular throughout January. With the coming weekend being the first after a full week back to work for most people, ABTA predicts travel agents and tour operators will see a surge in interest as people dream about their next relaxing break away from the world of work.   The new report features 10 destinations offering different types of holidays in different parts of the world and is designed to offer some fresh ideas to people looking for something more out of the ordinary. ABTA’s research shows that 48% of people say they are likely to visit a country this year which they haven’t been to before.   ABTA’s Director of Communications, Graeme Buck, said: “With booking a holiday front of mind for so many people right now, our Destinations to Watch report aims to inspire and excite. With a focus on countries or areas that may not immediately spring to mind, offering alternatives to more well-known destinations, there should be something for everyone.   “Factored into our thinking is a range of holiday types in all parts of the world. We’ve also considered the growing demand for experiential travel – for example indulging in hobbies and activities while on holiday, and many of the destinations featured in the report reflect this trend.   “ABTA members’ expertise means they can help people explore and book their new dream destination.”   The 10 Destinations to Watch in alphabetical order are:   Borneo This island is home to unspoilt rainforests, enormous cave systems and the iconic Mount Kinabalu and is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure and new experiences.   Colombia Idyllic beaches, historic cities, rainforests and truly great coffee, Colombia was already firmly on the radar for UK travellers.   Egypt A history dating back over 5,000 years is now showcased in the much-anticipated spectacular new Great Egyptian Museum in Giza on the outskirts of Cairo.   French Polynesia Palm fringed beaches, dark blue lagoons – a vision of paradise increasingly popular with UK holidaymakers.   The German Baltic Coast Pretty resorts, miles of sandy beaches cliffs and forests - welcome to the German Riviera. This lovely area is a holiday favourite for Germans but not so much known to outsiders.   Grenada Grenada, where fertile soils produce fragrant spices, as well as lush rainforest for those seeking a new Caribbean experience.   The Islands in the Gulf of Naples Just a short ferry ride from Naples and the Amalfi coast, these islands are a must-visit for new visitors and confirmed Italophiles.   La Rioja La Rioja in northern Spain is home to the country’s most famous wine and a great recommendation for those wanting to savour a truly authentic Iberian experience.   Luxembourg The delightful European duchy of Luxembourg packs a great deal within its borders, historic towns, fairytale castles and beautiful countryside.   Serbia From its hip and buzzy capital to its spectacular national parks, Serbia is ripe for discovery by those seeking a lesser-known European destination.   The report can be downloaded at www.abta.com/DestinationsToWatch2026

  ABTA’s new Travel Trends for 2026 report, launched today (Wednesday 26 November 2025), finds 25-34 year olds are the Travel Trendsetters – shaping travel for years to come, and September an increasingly popular month for overseas travel.   25-34 year olds have been dubbed the Travel Trendsetters by ABTA as they are the most prolific in their holiday taking, and place huge value on their breaks.   Around five in six (84%) of this group are planning to travel overseas in the next 12 months, well above the average of 70%. We also know from their travels this year that they take more holidays than anyone else – an average 5.5 holidays overall, including 2.2 abroad.   This is backed up by their commitment to splash their cash on travel - with almost half (49%) planning to spend more on their holidays in the next year.   It’s perhaps no surprise, given how much this group values time away, that 83% say holidays are the most important time of the year, more than any other age group (average is 65%).   They also place more importance on what holidays can do for their mental health and wellbeing, with 90% saying they are important for this reason versus the average of 80%.   In terms of the holidays they are taking, cruises are popular among this age group, with 19% taking one in the last 12 months, more than any other age group, including the over 65s (16%). This reflects the changing nature of cruise, with companies expanding their itineraries, activities and on-board facilities to appeal to a range of markets.   Also featured in the new report is the rise of ‘Super September’. The intention to travel during September has increased by seven percentage points over the last three years, from 17% in 2023 to 24% in 2025, outstripping the main summer months, and the trajectory is expected to continue into 2026.   ABTA says September is becoming more popular as people appreciate it as a good time to explore Europe and beyond, knowing that great weather is still likely, as well as good value breaks available. It also says that, with travellers increasingly looking to add a bit of adventure to their holidays – such as cycling and hiking - September can be a more suitable time to do so than the hottest summer months.   Graeme Buck, Director of Communications at ABTA – The Travel Association, said:   “Travel is a constantly evolving industry – presenting both opportunities and challenges for our members. What is clear from our research is that the demand to travel remains strong - with more people looking to travel abroad on holiday in 2026.   “The way people are travelling is changing, whether that’s embracing different types of trips or times of year to travel.   “ABTA travel companies are responding to these changing demands – working to make people’s holiday wishes a reality, all with the added peace of mind of being under the ABTA umbrella.”   These top trends and others for 2026 were released today (26 November 2025) at ABTA’s annual Travel Trends conference alongside a variety of the latest industry insights from other speakers.   ABTA’s full list of Travel Trends for 2026 (read in full at www.abta.com/TravelTrendsfor2026) are:

• Super September – Travelling abroad on holiday in this month increasingly popular
• Travel Trendsetters – 25–34-year-olds are shaping why, how, where and when we travel
• Rail-ly Good – Younger adults discovering the joys of train and interrailing holidays
• The Longest Haul – Exploring destinations the furthest away from home as possible
• Cruise Goes Long and Short – Appetite grows for very short and much longer itineraries

  ABTA says anyone tempted to for a taste of the new trends should speak to an ABTA travel agent or tour operator, harnessing their expertise to ideas and dreams into their ideal break, whilst providing any support or guidance needed along the way.  

ABTA has responded to news of the EES rollout across Europe is starting later this year, welcoming the ‘clarity’ it will bring for travellers and the travel agent community. It also called for the EU and the UK Government to agree a consistent communication plan to keep travellers updated as the rollout progresses over the coming months. The EU finally confirmed the start of the much delayed Entry/Exit System (EES). It will start on 12 October, with a phased implementation  until 9 April 2026. From 10 April 2026, EES is expected be fully operational at all EU borders. The EU has also stated that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will start sometime between October and December 2026. Mark Tanzer, Chief Executive of ABTA – The Travel Association said: “The confirmation of a 12 October start date for the phased introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) provides clarity for the travel industry and allows ABTA members to begin advising their customers on the changes. “In the run-up to EES phased implementation it is important there is a clear communication plan from both the EU and the UK Government.” “This is so UK travellers know what’s expected of them and to build confidence in the new process. ABTA will also share relevant materials with our members to help build awareness, including on our dedicated EES and ETIAS webpages. “ “We also encourage EU member states to adopt the EES app, as soon as possible. The app will allow travellers to provide information in advance and cut down EES processing times at airports and ports,” Tanzer added.

ABTA predicts the UK outbound travel market could sell to a £62 billion a year industry by 2030 if it is aided by government support. It detailed the industry’s potential in the 'Outbound travel: a catalyst for jobs, growth and wellbeing' report. ABTA believes there is room to add another £10 billion to the economy, from the current £52 billion. The report was presented at ABTA’s Travel Matters conference. It says one area of focus should be the UK’s regional airports. It says they are especially reliant on the outbound leisure segment, which makes up at least three-quarters of passenger traffic. At East Midlands for example, this proportion is 90%. To accelerate the outbound market, there needs to be the ‘right tax framework’ ABTA said. “This Government has been clear that it wants to secure growth for the economy and towns and cities across the UK. With the Spending Review, we’re urging the Government to capitalise on the growth potential presented by outbound travel,” said ABTA CEO Mark Tanzer. “One of the things that we are highlighting is the opportunity for the UK to be a leader in sustainable travel, recognising that the industry needs to grow in a responsible way.” “We’re also reminding the government that the travel industry is an important facilitator of growth in other sectors.”