Every summer the same question comes up: do we fly on a charter package, or load the car and drive to the sea ourselves? Both are good answers ā they just suit different trips. Here is how to decide.
When a charter package wins
For far-flung sun ā Antalya, Hurghada, the Greek islands, Cyprus, Malta ā flying is the obvious choice. A charter package bundles flight, transfer and hotel into one price, often all-inclusive, so you land, get driven to your resort and never think about logistics again. It is the best option for a pure fly-and-flop week and for families who do not want long drives.
When your own transport wins
For the nearby coast ā Montenegro, the northern Greek mainland like Halkidiki ā driving gives you freedom. You set your own pace, pack as much as you like, and can move between beaches, towns and viewpoints. "Own transport" arrangements cover just the accommodation, so you build the trip around it.
Questions that settle it
- How far is it? Over roughly a day's drive, flying usually wins.
- Do you want to explore or to switch off? A car is for explorers; a resort is for switching off.
- How many are travelling? Families often save with a package; couples may prefer the freedom of a car.
A quiet third option
Because our prices are tied to real, dated departures, you can also let the calendar decide: pick the week when the fare is lowest and plan around it. Flexibility is the cheapest upgrade there is.
Good to know
- Always check what "all-inclusive" actually covers before comparing prices.
- For driving holidays, book accommodation early for July and August.
- Shoulder months (June, September) are cheaper and calmer either way.
