Why now is the best time to book an Easter holiday and the simple ways to save on your next trip

Experts at icelolly.com shared there have already been hundreds of thousands of searches for Easter breaks, meaning the top deals are likely to be getting snapped up soon.

They recommended booking early, and being flexible with dates, departure cities and destinations as some of the top ways to save.

Check prices early

With Easter falling on April 5, now is a great time to check deals before the best offers, hotels and flights are snapped up, according to the experts. They said: "Our data shows the biggest savings don’t always come from waiting it out, but from comparing prices early, before the best rooms and dates disappear faster than a free ice cream.

"That’s where comparison really pays off. The same holiday can be priced wildly differently depending on the operator, what’s included and even the day it’s released."

They added that offers are often listed and refreshed midweek, so it is worth checking on those days for the best deals.

Tuesday is the new Saturday

Midweek is a great time to fly, too. Flights on a Tuesday are often the most affordable, and airports can be less crowded than weekend departures - "not only does this mean a calmer start to your holiday, it also leaves more in the budget for the fun stuff."

Change departure city

School holiday dates can also vary from city to city, so it is worth checking if somewhere nearby could offer a more affordable trip. Departing from an airport where it is still term-time could knock hundreds of pounds off the price.

The experts explained: "Don’t forget to compare package holidays with online travel agents. Once you factor in baggage, transfers and breakfast, a package can often come out cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately, and with far less admin along the way."

Try different destinations

Whether you want a city break, a long-haul adventure or a classic beach holiday, there are plenty of options aside from the most well-known destinations. Opting for emerging spots can give you the same experience, for a fraction of the price - think Tunisia, Morocco and Egypt for year-round sun and luxury hotels.

The travel pros said: "Resorts in these destinations can often undercut traditional European hotspots, while still delivering direct flights, all-inclusive options and family-friendly resorts. Same ease, better value and usually with a few more degrees thrown in.

"For travellers happy to look beyond the usual island suspects, emerging destinations offer more hotels, fewer crowds and warmer weather, without giving up the comfort of a package holiday."

Similarly, less obvious locations can come with a lower price tag. Swapping popular resorts for their quieter neighbours is often rewarded with better value.

"Menorca instead of Mallorca, or Fuerteventura instead of Tenerife, are classic examples - the same Mediterranean charm, but calmer, cheaper and far less competition for the sun loungers," the experts said.

"These smart swaps tend to be cheaper simply because demand is lower - proof that you don’t always need a brand-new destination, just a smarter way to book."

Chief marketing officer at icelolly.com, Steve Seddon, added: “There’s so much pressure to make school holidays memorable for little ones but that doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a few smart booking choices, families can save hundreds of pounds on their Easter holidays, meaning more budget for days out and, of course, chocolate treats.”