With the grey gloom of winter receding and giving way to blue skies, many families will be planning a spring break and looking forward to a change of scenery.
But if you want to get the best deal for your money, flexibility is key in everything from destination, activities, accommodation and transport, to the insurance and booking policies of the providers you choose.
Here are the top tips to get more bang for your buck if you are booking a late spring break, or tips you can take into planning a summer holiday.
Among them is one trick which if you follow could help you save a fortune.
An expert shared tips for booking a holiday
GETTY
Be Flexible
“Opting for alternate destinations can be a real money-saver. City breaks also tend to cost less in summer with beach resorts being the preferred option. One great source to check is the annual comparison of city break costs, published by the Post Office, which currently shows Vilnius in Lithuania as the number one best value destination.”
Shop Around
“Travel insurance is one area where great deals can be obtained. The average cost of cover taken out via a comparison site can be 40 per cent to 50 per cent lower than if bought directly from an insurer.
“Some multi-cover policies include travel insurance cover. You can reduce the cost of the policy by increasing the excess, purchasing single-trip insurance, or family cover. Do ensure you have a valid EHIC/GHIC card for travel within the EU.”
Check The Clock
“Timely bookings are another essential to keeping costs down. For flights, the first quarter of the year is often the best time to book, perfect when looking for a half-term or summer holiday.
“Avoid flying out on Fridays (the most popular day) and try unusual trip lengths (not seven or 14 days) to find the best value prices.”
Shop Around
“Getting kitted out for travelling needn’t be over expensive either. Pick up your travel essentials from discount stores and avoid spending over the odds purchasing travel-size toiletries.
“Instead, pick up some empty mini bottles for a fraction of the price and decant what you need into those. You can travel for less by collecting points and air miles using credit cards, supermarket loyalty schemes or retail portals. Points can be accrued not just through travel but through your everyday shopping too.”
House Swap
“Save money on your holiday accommodation by choosing to house swap instead. You could also benefit from savvy travel tips and advice from your local home swap partners. Alternatively, try house-sitting.
“Owners get someone to look after their home while they are away and, in return, you get somewhere free to stay.”
Go Direct
“Consider booking hotels directly, as your host can save money on any online commission and booking fees.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
There are free things to do when travelling
GETTY
“You could end up being quoted a much better price and negotiate additional benefits such as upgrades and free add-ons.”
Focus On Freebies
“Fun days out don’t need to cost the earth: there will always be free attractions at popular tourist destinations. Do your research before you go so you can keep costs to a minimum, contact the local tourist office on arrival to find out more.”
Clear The Cookies
“OK, I’ve saved the best until last… My top tip is to clear your cookies in the privacy settings of your web browser before booking online, if you’ve been looking at flights and hotels for a while.
“This will prevent websites from jacking up prices simply because they can see you’ve visited before and are looking to book. You could also use incognito or private browsing.”
For more information and free advice, see: https://ladyjaney.co.uk/
