How to save money on holidays

How often do you find yourself daydreaming about being somewhere else? Maybe you are stuck on a crowded train for your commute to the office and start thinking about laying on a secluded beach in the sunshine. It could be that during your walk through the city, you wish you were in a different location enjoying a city break. It could even be when you are standing in line at the supermarket, wishing you were queuing up for an aeroplane to take you somewhere tropical or for a ride at a legendary theme park. A lot of people are struggling though, so with the cost of everything going up, those holiday thoughts might stay as dreams. Unless of course we can find ways to holiday on a budget. Let’s have a good look at how to save money on holidays.

Holiday near home

Many of us want to journey miles and miles by air travel, jetting off to the wanderlust location we so often see on Instagram. However, in reality, that costs a hell of a lot of money. Rather than paying for the privilege of having jet lag, why not holiday somewhere closer to home? There are probably destinations a short drive from where you live that could be a great holiday destination.

It might not be the crustal clear seas and long sandy beaches that you dream of, but there are places right here in your own country that can provide memory-making holidays. Take a look around and see if you can find somewhere that leaks your interest near you this year. It could be the coast of Cornwall, the highlands of Scotland or the city culture of Liverpool.

Discover a different destination

Many of us immediately search for the same place where we click on those holiday websites. Maybe it is somewhere we have been before or a destination that you know will give you exactly what you are looking for. Many of us book the same hotel because it is familiar and you know what you are going to get from your week away. Now is the time to look at different places to holiday. This can be a great way to save money on holidays because you can find wonderful destinations without the price tag that you might ordinarily pay.

If you usually head to Spain but find the supply and demand a problem, leading to increased prices, why not opt for Cyprus, Malta or Greece? Croatia, Hungary and Slovenia could be great alternatives to Italy. If it’s a family holiday, some of the best destinations for families this year include Ireland, Riviera Maya in Mexico and even Sussex! Think outside of the ordinary and you will start to save money on holidays.

Find a different way to travel

When it comes to holidays, a lot of the cost actually falls on how you get to your vacation. If you are flying, this can be extremely expensive, especially if you are travelling during peak times, on certain days and during school holidays. It is a great idea to compare prices before you book to ensure that you get the best possible price for your flight. However, have you considered travelling in another way?

Air travel can be pricey so what about driving, travelling by train or getting there by boat? There are lots of different options depending on where you are heading and whilst they might not be your number one pick, they can help you to save money on holidays. The alternative journey itself could also be a wonderful way to reconnect with loved ones and make some memories. Consider some different ways t travel to your holiday next time you are organising a trip.

Stay within luggage allowances

For those that are flying, you might be able to get cheap tickets that you are happy with, however, extras can soon add up and bring the price higher. Be sure to stay within the allowances of your luggage. Many people simply go with their carry-on luggage these days. Be sure that you get the right measurements and weights from your specific travel company before you fly because there is nothing worse than arriving at the airport and having to shell out more money because you overpacked or didn’t realise your bag was too big.

A clever hack is to wear more of your clothes for the flight, so they don’t take up space in your bag. Watch some YouTube videos too which will show you the best way to maximise the space in your bags. You can even buy those vacuum bags to suck all the air out of your clothing so they take up less space. When you stay within the allowed parameters, you will be sure that you don’t incur any additional charges which take another bite out of your holiday budget.

Always compare prices

Comparing prices is always key. You might be shocked at just how much more one company is charging compared to another. In all honesty, this could be the make or break of your holiday. If things are too expensive when you first look, it doesn’t mean you can’t find something cheaper which will allow you to go and enjoy some downtime. Compare everything, from your flights and accommodation to food, transfers and insurance.

If you have the stomach to wait until the very last minute, you might be able to find a heavily reduced holiday by booking within 24 hours of travel. Last-minute bargains are available but it depends on the type of person that you are. Can you hold off not knowing where you are going or even if you will have a holiday!? Make sure those prices are compared and you dedicate some time to that so you get the most you possibly can for your hard-earned money.

So where will you be heading this year? What is on your dream list of destinations to go to? Wherever you fancy, be sure to use these top tips to save money on holidays.