How much do stamps cost? Price of first and second-class postage, and Royal Mail Christmas last post dates

Royal Mail has announced its last posting dates for Christmas 2021.

It is urging people to send gifts out as early as possible, particularly if they are being sent internationally.

“Ongoing Covid restrictions, reduced air and freight capacity, high volumes and winter weather conditions are all impacting transportation and local delivery across the globe,” Royal Mail said.

How much do stamps cost?

A first-class stamp from Royal Mail costs 85p. A second-class stamp costs 66p. You can buy stamps in post offices, or online here.

What are the UK last posting dates?

Friday 17 December

• Royal Mail Bulk Mail Economy

Saturday 18 December

• 2nd Class
• 2nd Class Signed For
• Royal Mail 48

Tuesday 21 December

• 1st Class
• 1st Class Signed For
• Royal Mail 24
• Royal Mail Tracked 48

Wednesday 22 December

Thursday 23 December

• Special Delivery Guaranteed

What are the international last posting dates?

The last dates for posting internationally at economy prices in time for Christmas have now passed. Here are the last dates for International Standard and international tracking and signature services.

Wednesday 1 December

Monday 6 December

• Australia
• Greece
• Italy
• New Zealand
• Portugal

Wednesday 8 December

• Africa
• Central and South America
• Asia
• Far and Middle East

Friday 10 December

Saturday 11 December

• Eastern Europe (except Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia)
• Turkey

Monday 13 December

• Canada
• Czech Republic
• Finland
• Poland
• USA

Thursday 16 December

• Austria
• Belgium
• Denmark
• France
• Germany
• Iceland
• Ireland
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Slovakia
• Spain
• Switzerland

You can purchase postage online through Royal Mail here.