Expert Tips for Saving Money on Your Summer Holiday
Planning a summer getaway? Whether you prefer a city break or a relaxing beach holiday with the kids, travel can be expensive, especially during the summer holidays. Fortunately, experts have shared money-saving tips to help you stretch your budget.
One effective strategy revolves around three key elements: mid-week travel, traveling with mates, and using motorways.
Travel Mid-Week
Flight prices often spike on weekends, so consider traveling mid-week to find cheaper fares. Williams suggests looking for holiday providers that don’t have fixed departure or arrival days, giving you more flexibility. Avoid traditional holiday durations like a week or ten days and instead experiment with trip lengths to find the best flight deals.
Swap Planes for Trains or Cars
Flights can be expensive, especially for family trips to Europe. Williams recommends exploring alternative modes of transport, such as road trips or rail travel. "Whether it's putting the family in the car for a cross-country road trip or opting for rail travel, these alternatives can offer significant savings," she said. A return car journey to France, for example, often costs less than flights and avoids the hassle of busy airports.
Travel with Friends or Family
Sharing accommodation costs with friends or family can also save you money. Williams advises booking holiday homes, which are usually priced per unit rather than per person. These homes often offer flexibility in the number of bedrooms and outdoor living spaces, making them ideal for group travel.
Flexible Travel Dates
Being flexible with your travel dates can help reduce costs. Traveling earlier or later in the season can be cheaper than peak holiday times. For families with school-aged children, consider the latter weeks of the summer holidays. Child-free travelers might find great deals in June or early September.
Self-Catering Over All-Inclusive
Opting for self-catered accommodations can lead to significant savings compared to all-inclusive packages. Williams recommends shopping for groceries at the start of your trip and preparing meals in your holiday home. This approach allows you to enjoy local delicacies without the high cost of dining out every meal.
Book Early
Securing the best prices often means booking as early as possible. Williams suggests keeping an eye out for 2024 holiday releases and taking advantage of early-bird deals. Signing up for mailing alerts from holiday providers can also help you stay informed about the latest discounts and offers.
Search for Discounts
Finally, look around for the best deals by signing up for mailing alerts from holiday providers. Many companies now include an "offers" tab on their websites where you can find limited-time discounts.