Planning your next holiday is one of the most exciting parts of the year. From choosing your destination to finding the best deals, the right travel platform can make the whole process smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a fully packaged escape, a flexible DIY trip, or expert help along the way, there are plenty of great options to explore.
Here are five trusted travel platforms to consider for your 2026 holiday, each offering something different to suit your travel style.
1. TUI
If you want a stress-free holiday where everything is handled for you, TUI is hard to beat. Winner of the British Travel Awards and TTG Family Holidays Provider in 2025 , it serves around 27 million customers worldwide, catering for both families and solo travellers.
You can choose from 180 destinations (from Spain to Shanghai), with support from 1,600 travel agencies, including digital stores. It covers package holidays, flights, hotels, cruises, and tours, making planning your trip simple and straightforward. You also benefit from ABTA and ATOL protection, giving you extra peace of mind when booking.
Strengths:
- Huge range of all-inclusive packages, including free kids’ places for ages 0–17.
- Strong global presence backed by 67,000 travel experts.
- Own fleet of 150 modern, fuel-efficient planes.
- 16 cruise ships across multiple cruise brands.
- Over 5 million more sustainable holiday experiences since 2015.
Weaknesses:
- Less flexibility compared to DIY booking
- Can be more expensive than budget options
Best for: You’ll find TUI ideal if you want a convenient, all-in-one holiday with minimal planning effort.
2. Barrhead Travel
Barrhead Travel stands out for its personal touch, making it a great option if you prefer speaking to real people rather than relying only on online booking tools. The company has a solid presence in the UK with its knowledgeable staff curating trips according to your specifications and desires. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon to Italy, family getaway to Spain, or long-haul adventure to Sao Tome and Principe, the service feels more tailored and thoughtful from the start.
Strengths:
- Excellent customer service with friendly, knowledgeable travel experts.
- Tailored holidays built around your preferences and budget.
- Strong and trusted reputation in the UK travel market.
- Wide choice of holiday types, from cruises to luxury escapes.
Weaknesses:
- Fewer instant online deals compared to larger booking platforms.
- Prices can be higher due to the personalised service.
Best for: If you value expert guidance and want a trip designed specifically for you, Barrhead Travel is a strong choice.
3. Travel Republic
Travel Republic is a popular online travel agency known for offering affordable holidays that don’t lock you into fixed packages. If you like having control over your trip, it gives you the freedom to pick your own flights, hotels, and extras to suit your budget and travel style.
The platform is straightforward to use, making it easy to compare options and find deals that work for you. It’s a simple way to plan travel on your own terms while avoiding pre-set options.
Strengths:
- Competitive prices on flights and hotels.
- Flexible booking options with no need for set packages.
- Wide selection of destinations across Europe and beyond.
- Easy-to-use website for quick comparisons.
Weaknesses:
- Limited customer support compared to full-service travel agencies.
- Less focus on premium or luxury travel experiences.
Best for: You’ll appreciate Travel Republic if you’re budget-conscious and prefer to mix and match your travel plans.
4. Expedia
Expedia is one of the most recognisable names in travel, offering a wide range of options for planning your trip. From flights and hotels to car rentals and activities, it brings everything together through an easy-to-use website and app.
You can quickly search, compare, and book travel services based on your travel preferences and budget. It’s especially useful if you like having lots of choice and want to organise different parts of your trip in one go, rather than using multiple websites.
Strengths:
- Massive global inventory of travel options.
- User-friendly website and mobile app.
- Bundle deals that can help you save money.
- Wide range of add-ons, including car hire and activities.
Weaknesses:
- Customer service can be inconsistent at times.
- Prices aren’t always the lowest compared to competitors.
Best for: Expedia works well for you if you want a reliable platform with plenty of options and convenience.
5. Opodo
Opodo is a well-known online travel agency, particularly popular across Europe for its competitive pricing and wide choice of flight options. It helps you search and compare deals across multiple airlines, making it easier to spot lower fares and plan your trip around your budget.
Alongside flights, you can also book hotels and package holidays, giving you flexibility depending on how much control you want over your plans. The platform is designed to make deal-hunting straightforward, especially if saving money is a priority.
Strengths:
- Attractive flight deals and regular discounts.
- Good for comparing multiple airlines in one search.
- Opodo Prime subscription for extra savings and perks.
- Covers flights, hotels, and package holiday options.
Weaknesses:
- Customer support can be slow at times.
- Extra fees may apply for certain services.
Best for: You’ll find Opodo useful if you’re searching for cheap flights and travel deals, especially within Europe.
Choosing the Right Travel Platform for You
Before booking, take a few minutes to read recent customer reviews of the platform you’re considering. This gives you a clearer picture of what to expect, including customer service, refunds, and overall reliability.
A deal might look great at first, but real user experiences often highlight things you won’t see upfront. Checking reviews helps you avoid surprises and choose a travel platform that fits your expectations with more confidence.
