It's that time of the year again when most of us are thinking of going abroad on holiday. However, with the ongoing recession, many people are also considering staying in the UK to save costs and it's estimated that one third of us will be doing so this year.
If you are planning to go further afield, here are 15 money saving tips that could help your pocket and allow more to be put aside for your next holiday!
1. Booking flights - Do your homework. Plan well in advance when booking flights directly and check out discount websites for the best deals.
2. Connecting flights - OK, it may be a pain and take you longer to reach your destination, but it could save you significant sums.
3. Be flexible on your actual travel dates - It's often the case that travelling a day or so before or after your first choice can save you a significant sum, especially by avoiding weekends.
4. Book a bundle - There are many deals that save money by buying flights, hotels, car rental etc together.
5. Go off season - if you are not restricted because of school holidays etc, you may even be able to go two weeks for the price of one by avoiding peak times.
6. Stay outside the centre of towns or in towns close by - Hotels etc will be much cheaper, all for the sake of a short bus ride.
7. Avoid hotels - Normally this is the expensive option for accommodation. Self catering should be cheaper. Alternatively, have you thought of a home exchange? They are really popular now and lots of agencies are around to match you up for a small fee.
8. Car rental - Don't be bullied into getting a larger car than you actually need, get the smallest one with the comfort required. It should also save you on petrol! On that point, always fill up with the regular option and return the car full. Don't let the rental company charge you for filling it up on return, it will definitely cost you!
9. Eating out - It's often the case that lunches are much cheaper than dinners, so consider a larger lunch and lighter snack later. Also, do a bit of research before heading out to eat, get some local recommendations for good quality, economical restaurants.
10. Local transport - Look for multi-day unlimited travel passes on trains, buses, metros, etc
11. Taxis - Avoid them whenever possible, they may be convenient but costly compared to public transport.
12. Currency exchange - Many exchanges offer very poor rates, so search the internet for the best sources of local currency.
13. Get friendly with the 'natives' - Make sure you take the opportunity to chat to the locals, they will tell you the best places to eat, where to visit and where to avoid.
14. Snacks - Avoid overcharging in hotels, by buying snacks, drinks, water etc in local stores.
15. Telephones - Be very, very careful when using mobiles or in room telephones. If you really need to call home look for cheap phone cards and make sure you understand the tariffs.
