Categories: News

Will Brexit Lead to Higher Travel Costs?

There have been strong reactions from both sides following the UK’s decision to leave the EU last week, but what isn’t so clear cut is how Brexit could affect our everyday lives – in particular, travelling through Europe and the EU member states.

There are concerns that the cost of travelling to EU nations may increase without the numerous trade agreements and benefits provided by the European Union.

The cost of flying may increase in the post-Brexit UK, with the no-frills air travel industry potentially suffering. The European Union negotiated the removal of certain air travel restrictions allowing greater competition and the demand for lower air fares. However, the UK would have to try and negotiate similar air service agreements if Britain’s no-frills airlines such as EasyJet are going to continue offering low-price fares.

Naturally, this will only affect cruise passengers on fly/cruise itineraries. In the long term, it could provide a boost for UK cruise ports with passengers avoiding air fares and taking to the seas from Southampton, Tilbury and others.

Perhaps the most headline-grabbing effect of the referendum was the decrease in the value of the pound. And although it has steadied somewhat as the dust starts to settle, it remains to be seen how a post-Brexit pound copes against the euro and US dollar in the coming years.