Time for change: Summer holiday prices and school fines

It comes as no surprise that holidays abroad are more expensive than ever, especially during school breaks. The sharp increase in prices forces many parents to choose between paying extra for a holiday or risking fines by taking their children out of school. The reason is simple: supply and demand. School holidays fall during peak travel seasons when most people want to book trips. In Europe, summer, especially August, is the busiest time for travel, pushing prices even higher.

Something needs to change. Family holidays are important, not just for fun, but also for mental health and quality time. The current system makes it difficult for many families to afford a break without breaking the rules.

The Rise in School Fines

A record 443,322 school holiday fines were issued in England last year, according to new figures from the Department for Education (DfE). This is a 24% rise compared to the previous year and three times higher than in 2016-17 when government records began.

The latest DfE guidelines, issued in August 2024, state:

• Schools must consider fines if a child misses five or more days without permission.
• Fines are £80 if paid within 21 days, rising to £160 if paid within 28 days.
• A second fine for the same child within three years is £160 immediately.
• A third unauthorised absence could lead to prosecution, with a possible fine of up to £2,500.

For many families, the financial burden plays a huge role in their decision. A holiday that costs thousands more during school breaks may simply be out of reach.

Why Holidays Matter

Family holidays are about more than just travel. They offer many benefits, including:

• Boosted Mental Health: A break from daily stress helps recharge the mind.
• Escape from the Daily Grind: Time away allows people to step back and relax.
• New Experiences: Exploring different cultures and cuisines expands knowledge and understanding.
• Reduced Burnout: A well-earned rest can prevent exhaustion and stress.
• Quality Time With Loved Ones: Modern life is busy, especially for working parents. Holidays provide uninterrupted family time.
• Improved Physical Health: Walking, swimming, and outdoor activities promote better health.
• Enhanced Creativity: New experiences can inspire fresh ideas and perspectives.
• Increased Productivity: A refreshed mind often leads to better focus and motivation.

Finding a Fair Solution

The current system puts families in a difficult position. If travel companies continue to raise prices for peak times, and fines for missing school keep increasing, many parents will struggle. There needs to be a better balance.

“Holidays should not be a privilege only for the wealthy. Families need quality time together, and the system should support that rather than punish it,” says Luke Newman, founder of ‘For Men To Talk.’

A fairer approach might include staggered school holidays, price caps for travel during peak times, or more flexibility in authorised absences. Change is needed to ensure families can afford a break without harming their children’s education or finances.