10 summer vacation money saving tips to help you afford your next getaway

The summer holiday season is fast approaching and whether you’ve organized and booked your getaway months in advance or are a last-minute planner, UK airports will soon be bustling with eager travellers.

While many have already secured their summer holidays, Fred Harrington, CEO of discount site Bountii, has put together a handy list of 10 money-saving tips to help Brits make the most of their holiday this season. year.

From choosing the best time to travel to deciding how to spend your time abroad, Fred’s advice covers a variety of topics.

1. Opt for off-peak travel times.

This may seem like obvious advice, but it’s worth noting that during the school holidays, a trip to a sunnier climate can cost around £746 for a family of four. So if you manage to get away in June before the schools let out, or even better, plan your vacation after they return in September, you could save a significant amount.

Additionally, less popular destinations often offer cheaper options than their more touristy counterparts. For those with children who still want to enjoy a cheap getaway, the last week of August is usually 15.5% cheaper than the average holiday period.

2. Take advantage of coupons and discounts.

Booking sites are often eager to work with customers and many offer fantastic discounts and coupons that can save you a pretty penny. While not every coupon is applicable to all holidays, it’s worth using them when possible.

For example, a more expensive vacation can save you more than a cheaper one, potentially allowing you to secure your dream getaway at a massively reduced cost. Another tip is to stay flexible with specific dates and areas in your destination, as this could lead to additional savings.

3. Make the most of comparison websites.

Comparison websites are a shopper’s best friend, aiming to get you the best and cheapest deal available. Whether you’re looking for hotels, flight prices or even holiday packages, websites like Booking.com and Trivago compare all prices to get the best deal.

If you’re just looking for flights, Skyscanner has become a popular site for affordable fares. Or for those who need to get travel insurance, websites like Go Compare and Compare the Market offer some great deals.

4. Consider an all-inclusive vacation package.

Although it may not initially seem like it, sometimes all inclusive holidays can be a slightly cheaper option. While dining at local restaurants is a great way to sample the local cuisine, it can sometimes prove to be a more expensive way to vacation.

Not all holidays are all-inclusive, so you may need to shop around a bit until you find the perfect one. And while you might not explore as much, you certainly won’t be stressed trying to decide where to eat.

5. Pack light and avoid paying for luggage.

If you’re traveling with kids, you often can’t get away with only hand luggage, but if you can you can save a good amount of money, and many airlines offer free options for under-seat or even overhead bags. All airlines are different, so prices will vary and the offer will also depend on who you are flying with.

But if you must take a checked bag, then pack as lightly as possible, taking exactly what you need, rather than several different outfits for each day. Write a detailed list of everything you need, save space by rolling clothes and taking travel-sized toiletries.

6. Opt for free and low-cost activities.

Everyone loves an adventurous activity like jet skiing or snorkelling every now and then, but they aren’t the most cost-effective activities. Places like museums, galleries and cultural landmarks all tend to be free and are a brilliant way to learn a bit more about the place you’re visiting.

Or if you fancy something a little more different, boat trips and tours are also relatively inexpensive.

7. Choose walking instead of driving.

Another tip that might seem obvious, but hiring a car while on holiday can be quite expensive, especially when most popular British destinations are easily navigated on foot. Not only is it more cost-effective, but you also get to exercise and absorb more from the environment. If you need to travel further afield, most places offer affordable public transport options.

8. Cook a few meals while on vacation.

If you haven’t opted for an all-inclusive package, but your accommodation has self-catering facilities, cooking a few dinners is another great way to save money. While you may want to make the most of your vacation and not cook, you can still enjoy the local cuisine by shopping at a local supermarket and preparing meals with local ingredients.

9. Bring your own entertainment.

Having something to entertain you is crucial. Although many vacation rentals have televisions, they are often not the easiest to operate. So if you want to watch TV, why not bring a tablet or laptop? For those who prefer a game night, cards or small portable board games are perfect to enjoy on the balcony.

10. Make sure you are fully insured to avoid extra costs.

Having travel insurance is essential when going abroad as it provides a safety net in case something goes wrong. It’s also wise to make sure you have a valid GHIC card, which can give you access to government healthcare in some countries at the same cost as local residents.