Last year I entered a blog competition to win a holiday to Cuba. Unfortunately, I didn’t win, but I thought I’d put it on here because the weather is so nice outside, it’s got me thinking about holidays.
If you’re taking a break this Summer, I bet you’ve searched for ways to save money. The problem is, there are so many different ways to save, you forget them all.
Here is your A to Z guide to a cheaper holiday. All these options may not apply to you, but a lot of them will. Remember this guide, even print it out if you have to. Follow it and you’ll be on your way to a much more affordable week or two!
All Inclusive – Very important. Booking all inclusive costs more than self catering, but it will save you a lot of money overall. Eating and drinking is where most money is spent, and with all inclusive, you don’t have to worry about it. If you have children, who need regular food and water, all inclusive is an absolute must.
Booze – Lots of people drink on holidays, so some places will charge more. Have a look or ask around first.
Cabs – Some taxis are known to charge extra to tourists. Find out as much as you can before you go.
Days out – Find the best price before you make any decisions. (Extra tip – If you’re with club 18-30, avoid the reps like the plague!)
Essentials – Towels, toiletries, sun tan cream. Buy them all before you go. They might cost much more when you get there.
Food – Make packed lunches for days out. A family of 5 eating out all the time will cost a fortune.
Group Booking – Find out if someone else is going away. Try to buddy up and haggle for a group discount.
Hand luggage – If travelling light, you might get away with only using hand luggage, cutting out luggage charges.
Insurance – Find the best travel insurance deal. Use online comparison sites and Google.
June – For a Summer holiday, going in June will be a lot cheaper than July or August. Plus it’s usually a lot less busy.
Kids – Some companies have packages designed to save if you have a big family. ‘1 child goes free’ is an offer that’s often used.
Late deal – If you’re not that bothered where you go, there are some fantastic late deals as holiday companies try cutting their losses. Last Minute is a popular site to use.
Make your own – Anything from food for the kids, to a beach dress for Mum. If you’re creative, there are all sorts of things you can try.
Nice – Be nice to local workers. You might get a discount for your courtesy.
Old clothes – You don’t always need a brand new wardrobe to go away with! Have a look at your old stuff. With your golden tan, you’ll look brand new!
Phonecalls – Don’t use your mobile phone abroad, it can cost a fortune. Instead, ask around for a foreign sim card. Some have great deals on UK calls.
Quote – Plan the things you want to do beforehand and get a quote for them. That way, you can budget reasonably well.
Ryanair – See if they fly to your destination. If they do, they’ll be cheaper than the other airlines.
Suitcase – Make sure you’re within the weight limit. Extra weight charges can be very painful. If you think you’re going over the limit, think about investing in a Rufus Roo Travel Jacket – with so many little pockets and compartments, you can get away with around 20kg stored in there.
Transport – Cheaper to get a transfer or a taxi? How are you getting to the airport? Make sure you choose the cheapest option, as it will save you money.
Up in the air – Food and drink can be expensive on a flight. Make a packed lunch before you go.
Voucher codes – Check all voucher code websites to see if the company you’re going with offers any discounts.
Washing – If you’re away for a couple of weeks, do your own washing. Foreign laundry charges might be steep.
Xchange rate – Some places charge you high commission for changing money, some don’t. Always make sure you know how much you can get for your money before going ahead with it.
Yorkshireman – Being a Yorkshireman myself, we’re known for counting our pennies. Go on holiday with the mind of a Yorkshireman and you’ll save plenty!
Zzzzz – Sleep comfortably. Improves brain performance and reduces the risk of silly spending.
So there you go. Hopefully when you get back you can let me know how well you did. If you save a lot, you can always buy me a thank you prezzie!
I’ll leave you with a great infographic about travelling through Europe, and a holiday budget planner to print off. Hopefully they’ll come in handy for you. Click on the graphic to enlarge it.
Thanks for reading. Hope you have a great holiday!
