Sunshine Saturday: All you need to know for booking the best deals for summer 2026

What is Sunshine Saturday?

Sunshine Saturday is the first Saturday in January and one of the busiest days of the year for the travel industry.

It’s when many holidaymakers banish the winter blues and get their sunshine break booked up.

There are big incentives with tour operators and travel agents offering great discounts on deals – so you can often take advantage and save on the cost of your holiday.

What kind of deals can I expect?

Deals will obviously vary from operator to operator but look out for discount codes, money off or free extras included in package deals.

Operators flying out of Teesside International are among those offering deals.

Is there anything I need to be aware of?

There are likely to be lots of great deals around but always check the small print on potential bargains.

The Civil Aviation Authority’s ATOL arm says people should research their travel company and trip before booking. It also advises people shop around with other providers to check it really is a good deal.

ATOL also recommends holidaymakers book a package offering consumer protection rather than organising flights and accommodation separately.

Where should I go to book?

We’d strongly recommend using your local travel agent, not only are they bursting with knowledge and tips that you won’t find online, but they can also access package deals that you cannot.

This could either be going into a high street store or using an independent homeworking agent.

You can of course search online – either directly with the tour operator or on one of the many travel agent websites.

Just make sure you check their credentials that they’re a genuine agent with ABTA protection.

What destinations are popular this year?

Teesside International flies to a great range of destinations to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some options to explore:

• Malaga or more commonly known as the Costa Del Sol is a brand new route for 2025- the first flight takes off from Teesside on the 31st March 2025
• Dalaman in Turkey, home to the firm favourite of Marmaris, but have you explored the beautiful coastlines of Olu Deniz and Fethiye? Fancy a dip in the famous blue lagoon you always see on the Turkey TV adverts? Head to Olu Deniz.
• Corfu – one of the most beautiful and romantic islands of the Ionian Sea. From lush green hills to noble mansions and from idyllic beaches to impressive museums, this island has everything it takes to please any type of traveller. Try a villa holiday with car hire to make the most of exploring the island.
• The Algarve in Portugal – The stunning rugged Atlantic coastline of the Algarve is home to a wide range of popular resorts from secluded hideways to picturesque towns such as Albufeira. You can enjoy some of the world’s most spectacular beaches such as the Instagram favourite of Praia de Dona Ana.
• Alicante with its boutiques and art galleries remains one of the most popular Spanish destinations from Teesside. There’s the beauty of the Murcia coastline and coves stretching more than 100 miles in length. Bustling nightlife can be found in Benidorm and picturesque Calpe boasts beautiful palm tree beaches and Roman ruins.
• Majorca is always a favourite for holidaymakers looking to enjoy the gorgeous beaches of the beautiful Balearic Island. Family friendly resorts such as Puerto Pollensa are a great option if you’ve little ones, while those looking for lively nightlife can head to the exciting bars and clubs of Magaluf.

How can I make the most of Sunshine Saturday?

1. If you use your annual leave wisely then you can maximise your time off around Bank Holidays.
2. Booking all extras in with the holiday- get your parking and lounge access sorted in with the holiday when you book
3. Making use of discount codes- Almost every tour operator is currently offering discount codes or money off breaks, check before you book to make sure you are making best use of these

4. Research in advance- No matter where you choose to book your break, spend some time researching before Saturday. Even to get a rough idea of the basics, where you want to go, what is your budget, when you want to travel. This will help save time on the big day.

To find out where you can fly to from Teesside Airport, click here.