Written by Rob Staines, Travel Expert
It’s that time of the year again – the schools are nearly out, the weather is meant to be warm, and we find ourselves dusting off the suitcases and hoping for some family fun in the sun. Whilst holidays are the one event many of us look forward to the most, they don’t always come easily, especially during a cost-of-living crisis. With average prices around 10-20% higher than 2019 levels, it’s tough for those limited to travel during school holidays, when prices soar and availability is low. But there are plenty of ways we can boost the budget and enjoy a break that hopefully won’t make us broke.
Don’t panic if you haven’t booked yet
Yes, we’re always told to book early – and that is the most reliable way to secure a deal – but if you haven’t, don’t worry. There are loads of last-minute holiday specialists out there. Your local travel agent will also have a wealthy deal at their fingertips. If you are yet to book, try a package holiday rather than a flight only. If you think about it, package tour operators book planes and hotels as far back as a year and they don’t want empty seats or rooms. It’s often the case they’ll slash prices last minute and it can be your chance to grab a bargain. This does come with certain caveats though. Don’t expect the most luxurious or Insta-worthy break (although it’s not impossible) and you must be highly flexible on dates and destinations. I’d say, lower your expectations and anything higher is a bonus!
Price Compare… then compare again… and again
Finding a deal often takes time. Price comparison sites are an excellent tool for paying less but don’t just check one, check multiple. You may also want to check on different browsers. Whilst it’s not guaranteed, I’ve found putting in that extra effort has sometimes reduced the price, even if just minimally.
Many booking sites and platforms like Google Flights, Skyscanner and Momondo have become highly advanced with search abilities. Some will also allow you to search via calendar and map views – showing the cheapest regions and travel dates, saving time searching and comparing individual destinations. Some use AI to tell you the cheapest time to book and most allow you to sign up to price alerts telling you when prices come down or are about rise.
Think outside the box
Using a bit of imagination or shifting our thought process when it comes to holidays can save a surprising amount of cash. Do we really need to head off in the 6 weeks of summer when every other family is travelling? Choosing to travel towards the tail end of the holidays when everyone is heading home can really save, or taking our summer holiday in the February or October half-term is an opportunity to top up the vitamin D levels, escape the gloomy weather and pay less. If you live near, or can reach a border and the schools on the other side have gone back, consider crossing it to make considerable savings.
Consider your destination wisely too and don’t opt for the obvious, where everyone else wants to go. High demand often means high prices. Diversify your options by choosing places just as nice but not thronging with tourists. Northern Spain is offering great value for money and is keen to attract visitors seeking beaches and gastronomy without searing heatwaves. Up-and-coming Albania is investing heavily in high end, low budget breaks. Less trodden Italian regions like Cantabria and Marche offer the benefits of their popular neighbours but without the price tags and far more authentic experiences.
Diversifying your accommodation choices, away from the traditional hotels or apartments can also save. Houseswapping platforms have boomed in popularity, homestays offer unique and enriching experiences and holiday parks have really upped their game in recent years, showcasing resort-style offerings without the price tags!
So there’s just a few tips you may want to follow when booking this year or in the future. Wherever you go and however you do it, remember, even at the most trying of moments, travel is a chance to reconnect, escape the reality of daily life and create life-long memories with the people you love the most. Happy holidays!
Rob Staines is a Travel Expert and Broadcaster who’s visited over 70 countries. With years of experience working within the Travel Industry he’s picked up lots of helpful tips, tricks and advice to make travel that much easier.
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