The Civil Aviation Authority is warning travellers not to leave themselves unprotected when booking last-minute deals to holiday destinations.

The CAA says people searching for bargain trips need to ensure they’re financially protected.

Head of ATOL Andy Cohen said: “With travellers eager to get away, we urge consumers to do their research and look beyond the price when booking last-minute getaways to hotspot destinations.

“It is more important now than ever that travellers make sure they are financially protected when travelling.”

The CAA warns not all websites ending in .co.uk will be companies based in the UK, which means they may not offer financial protection.

The CAA advises people to check for the ATOL logo and unique four- or five-digit number, then see if the company is listed on the CAA’s’ Check and ATOL’ page on its website.