We all know holidays aren't cheap, but even though no one really has much money to spare right now, we still feel we deserve a holiday, and rightly so. The economic crisis has magnified the stresses and strains of life so a week away from it all should be top of everyone's list. Here are three ways to save money on a holiday.
Number one, know when to book. This demands a good level of flexibility and/or planning. Some of the best deals to be had are those booked over a year in advance. Holiday companies like to know they have some demand and money in the bank, therefore they reward you with early booking discounts, added extras and a lot more choice. What's more, if you can pay upfront you will pay less.
However, if you don't know where to go or perhaps don't mind where you go – you just want sun, sand and sea on the cheap – then leave booking until the last minute. Many holiday providers buy up an allocation at a hotel, on a plane or both and if they haven't been shifted in good time they will start to unload the seats/rooms for considerably lower than advertised. This benefits both you – cheap holiday – and them – 50% of the total value is better than 0%. You will have to be able to pack your bags and get leave approval in under a week to get the best deals, but you can get a holiday to Mexico for just a few hundred pounds.
Number two, travel in a group. Two's company, three's a crowed eh? Well travelling in a group, even if it is an odd number can save you big bucks. If you are staying in an apartment or suite then dividing the total cost by four or even six is going to look much less scary on your bank statement than if just two of you are travelling together. This is most evident on package deals from the main UK travel operators.
Finally, travel insurance. Although you have to actually pay for this on top of the holiday cost, it can save you a LOT of money and hassle if something goes wrong. It doesn't just cover you against injury or illness, it covers your luggage, your money, repatriation, cancellation and travel agent failure. You can now also get specific types of insurance such as winter sports, golf, cruise and backpacker so you can tailor the level of cover to your travel needs. If you are planning on going away on more than one holiday a year, then an annual policy represents far better value for money. You can be covered for multiple trips usually up to 45 days each, taking the fuss and bother out of buying single trip policies every time. Take a look at AA Travel Insurance for a good value annual travel insurance policy. |
