This is the time of year when people start planning their summer holidays but with the rising prices and poor exchange rates, getting the best deal seems even more of a challenge than in past years. Parents, in particular, face a nasty combination of these problems adding to the usual expense of going away during school holidays. So, what tips can help them get the best holiday for the best price
this summer?
Dates
Dates are always the hardest part as if you take your kids out of school for a holiday, you face a fine from the school. However, if you have kids who aren’t at school or are home schooled, then taking your summer holiday before the school break is definitely a good step. Most attractions will be open and costs will be significantly less during these periods.
If you find yourself stuck with the school holidays as your dates, then shop around for the best deal. Use websites such as My Voucher Codes
to look for deals, discounts and special offers that can ease the cost burden somewhat. Check prices regularly before you sign up for anything to see if there are any deals and sign up for alerts from travel websites to find the best time to buy.
DIY versus package holiday
When you book a package holiday, travel times and dates tend to be more restrictive, although there are still savings to be found outside peak times. Don’t be afraid to haggle a little – find the best online prices then talk to your travel agent or go to the shop to see what they can do. Even if they can’t lower the price, they may be able to add upgrades.
If you want to put together your own DIY package, then look at options such as indirect flights to keep costs down. Look at mid-week flights as well as early or late times as these tend to be the cheaper. If you plan to go DIY, then book as early as possible as nearer the time, the prices will increase.
Little cost cutting measures
There are also little things you can do to keep costs down around your holiday. Take your own food and snacks to the airport as these will be much cheaper at the supermarket than in the shops there. Also look to see what foods you can take on the plane and make use of this to have snacks on hand. You can’t take bottles of water into the airport but once you are through security, you can fill up an empty bottle and carry it with you for most airlines.