Holidaymakers looking to book their next getaway could save thousands by using one specific method. It is thought that over 94 million Brits head off on foreign holidays each year, but many don’t know that how you book could affect the cost.

In some cases booking in a certain way could see up to a £1,000 difference between the cost of a holiday. Experts explain that they “analyse” the way Brits book their getaways so they can adjust the price accordingly. On Channel 4’s Bargain Holiday Secrets, expert Thuzar Nwe said: “We always analyse the channel reports [to see] where the bookings are coming from. Every guest can access from different devices, mobile, tablets, or the traditional laptop.

“Mobile device conversion is very high. Sixty or seventy percent and we have to follow the trend, not to miss out on that conversion. We’re always available and visible in front of the mobile user.”

Channel 4 presenter Jasmine Harman explained that being “visible” often means offering mobile-only prices to entice holidaymakers. She said: “Some of the biggest travel companies actively encourage hotels to offer mobile-only prices.”

According to Booking.com, over half of its bookings are made using mobile devices. It claims that “offering a mobile rate drives more potential guests to your property page”.

When Jasmine tested an all-inclusive holiday to Turkey on the desktop site she found it cost £4,058. When she conducted the same search on her phone, the same hotel for a family of four cost around £3,090.

She said: “It’s over 20 percent lower on my phone. These mobile prices are only visible on your phone so, if like me you only book your holidays on your laptop or desktop, you will have no idea that they even exist.”

The experts explained that holidaymakers could also “bargain” by calling up their hotel and speaking to them. They might be able to price match the online companies or even offer an add-on to save you money.

Jasmine added: “You might be thinking that’s a bit cringe, and I agree, but the message from the holiday insiders is clear, they want us to get on the blower because they want our business.” 

The guidance is supported by consumer champion Which? Travel which found that a hotel in Amsterdam cost £270 less during a December 2024 experiment. It encourages customers to compare booking site deals on a computer as well as a mobile device.

It however also encourages holidaymakers to contact hotels directly. Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, said: “Many of us will use a laptop to make big purchases like a holiday, but we could unwittingly be missing out on significant savings offered by ‘mobile exclusive’ prices.

“Next time you’re looking for accommodation, take five minutes to cross-check the prices on both your mobile and laptop to see if there is a cheaper price, and always call the property directly as this is often the best way to get the cheapest rate.”