Last updated: October 2026
Top Holiday Reads for Your Next Escape
Whether you’re relaxing beside the pool, heading to the beach or settling into a cosy staycation, a good book can be one of the best things to pack.
From twisty thrillers to feel-good fiction, we’ve picked five escapist reads that could make great companions for your next holiday.
Looking for Your Next Holiday Book?
This list mixes mysteries, psychological thrillers, contemporary fiction and feel-good escapism — ideal if you want something easy to settle into while you’re away.
1. The Surf House
By Lucy Clarke
If you like your holiday reading with a darker edge, The Surf House combines an atmospheric coastal setting with mystery, danger and plenty of suspense.
With Morocco providing the backdrop, it’s the kind of destination-led thriller that can quickly pull you into another world.
2. Our Holiday
By Louise Candlish
A holiday-home community provides the setting for this psychological thriller, where tensions, secrets and competing interests begin to collide.
A good choice if you enjoy character-driven suspense and stories where seemingly idyllic surroundings hide something much more complicated.
3. The Summer of Lies
By Louise Douglas
The Summer of Lies combines an evocative setting with secrets from the past and a mystery that gradually unfolds.
Set between Wales and Brittany, it’s a strong pick if you like atmospheric fiction with family relationships, intrigue and a sense of place.
4. The Sea Sisters
By Lucy Clarke
This travel-led mystery follows two sisters and explores the relationship between them through a story filled with discovery, questions and emotional twists.
Its international setting makes it especially suited to readers looking for something escapist while travelling.
5. Chasing the Italian Dream
By Jo Thomas
If you’d rather swap suspense for sunshine, Chasing the Italian Dream offers plenty of feel-good escapism against a beautiful Italian backdrop.
Food, friendship, romance and a change of scenery make this an easy choice for relaxed poolside or beach reading.
How to Choose the Perfect Holiday Read
There’s no single perfect holiday book — it really depends on what helps you switch off.
A fast-paced plot can work well if you’ll be reading between activities.
Books with vivid destinations can add another layer of escapism to your trip.
Choose a thriller if you want suspense or something lighter if complete relaxation is the goal.
An e-reader can be useful if you want several books without adding extra weight to your luggage.
Holiday packing tip:
If you’re taking a physical book, keep it somewhere easy to reach for airport waits, train journeys or relaxing by the pool. If you’re travelling with an e-reader or tablet, remember the charger and check your accommodation’s plug type before you leave.
Don’t Forget the Rest of Your Holiday Checklist
Once you’ve chosen the books, make sure the rest of your trip is organised too. Check your passport, travel documents, destination requirements and anything else you’ll need before departure.
You can also read our holiday preparation checklist for more pre-travel reminders.
Time to Switch Off
Whether you’re drawn to suspense, romance, mystery or feel-good fiction, the best holiday read is the one that helps you slow down and enjoy some uninterrupted reading time.
Pack a favourite, download something new and enjoy your next chapter somewhere a little more relaxing.
Planning Your Next Escape?
Once you’ve picked your holiday reading, consider travel insurance that suits your destination, trip and individual needs.
Book suggestions are included for general interest only and do not represent endorsements or paid recommendations. Availability and publication details may change. Travel insurance cover is subject to eligibility, benefit limits, excesses, terms, conditions and exclusions. Please read the current Policy Wording and your Certificate of Insurance.
