UK families are flocking to Sharm el-Sheikh for the February half-term this year, making it the most popular destination for the school break. But the runners-up are also turning heads.
New booking data from Thomas Cook shows Dubai and New York have claimed second and third place respectively, proving that families can't resist swapping the beach lounger for something a bit more adventurous.
The figures track family bookings for trips departing between Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 22, 2026.
British parents are increasingly drawn to bigger, bolder getaways rather than sticking with the usual winter sun formula. This shift has seen Dubai and New York climb the rankings to overtake traditional winter sun favourites.
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Topping the list with the most bookings is Sharm El-Sheikh in Egypt
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Destinations like Hurghada and Marrakesh, which have long been go-to choices for families chasing some February warmth, have slipped down the list.
Top February half-term destinations for families (by bookings):
- Sharm el-Sheikh
- Dubai
- New York
- Hurghada
- Marrakesh
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Rather than simply soaking up the sun, more parents are opting for experience-led trips that offer something different. Long-haul city breaks have become the breakout stars of the season.
Last-minute bookings are also proving popular, with 42 per cent of all February half-term holidays snapped up in January alone. It seems families are increasingly comfortable locking in trips closer to departure.
Head of inventory and trading at Thomas Cook, Jaime Thompson, said: "While winter sun remains a firm-favourite for February half-term, the strong performance of destinations like Dubai and New York shows families are increasingly using the break for bigger, experience-led trips.
"Many are also booking closer to departure, taking advantage of flexible options and last-minute deals, which can deliver even better value."
Dubai is another popular booking for February, showing Britons are searching for something a bit different
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New York rounded out the top three, overtaking traditional winter sun favourites
| GETTYThis comes as Thomas Cook shares its latest deals for anyone hoping to book a last-minute getaway.
It has shared how to escape the winter weather with beach bargains and cheap city breaks - starting from £176.
The travel company has shared its top picks, with exciting short- and long-haul offers on sale. Get deals if travelling to Egypt, Morocco, Spain, Mexico, Canada and more dream destinations.
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