If you love to travel but like a bargain read on… we can make your holiday pound go further
Holidays are a big investment of time and energy – not to mention money – so it’s well worth doing a bit of homework to get the right trip at the best price. We’ve asked the experts for their advice to help you save money, wherever you’re off to!
Before you go
Costs depend on where and when you want to travel, but when it comes to really driving down prices a little flexibility can go a long way. A few days difference in departure dates can mean that air fares and hotel rates vary considerably. And don’t forget to check all UK airports too. Driving or taking the train to a different airport could be cheaper than flying from your nearest one.
Factor in the whole price of a holiday, not just flights and hotel. “If you fly long haul to places like Goa or Thailand, the air fare will be pricey, but day-to-day expenses will be lower than in the UK,” says Sean Tipton at ABTA.
“Choose an all-inclusive break if you’re heading to Turkey or the Greek Islands as food and drink prices are high,” says Maria Whiteman at Directline Holidays. “Considering Croatia? Room only or b&b offers better value overall because food costs are lower.”
For city breaks consider Eastern Europe. Prague and Budapest are not only beautiful and cultural – they’re currently less than half the price of other Eurozone cities such as Paris and Bruges. When it comes to eating out Spain is Europe’s cheapest holiday destination with a meal for two with wine averaging just £22.
Shopping around is a good idea, but booking online isn’t always cheaper. “High street travel agents can often access discounted rates offered by hotels and you benefit from an agent’s travel expertise,” says Sean Tipton.
If you have access to a computer do your homework before you go to the travel agent. You’ll be better equipped to choose the right offer – plus tour operators can often match an online price.
0 comments: