Brits 'should book early for cheap Spanish breaks'

Budgeting Brits should book early if they are hoping to bag themselves a bargain break on Spanish shores, one expert has said.

Consumer group Which? conducted researched that found families could save as much as £1,000 by booking their 2009 getaway this year.

The magazine tracked the price of a range of Spanish holiday deals and concluded that those hopping across the channel to the nation by ferry should book their travel and accommodation as soon as possible.

Furthermore, the organisation warned that prices are likely to rise over the next year, meaning that consumers who leave booking their breaks until the last minute could end up "disappointed".

Holiday editor of Which? Lorna Cowan said: "For families wanting to get away next summer with specific destinations in mind, we recommend booking in the next month or so to avoid disappointment when it comes to availability and cost."

Those considering taking a ferry to Spain maybe interested to hear that 70 per cent of respondents in a recent survey rated sea travel less stressful than flying.

Furthermore, 80 per cent of those the Port of Dover polled considered seaports to be more flexible than airports.