Posted on Monday, 10 April 2017

Worried about the cost of your next holiday? These useful tips could save you hundreds of pounds.

Not so long ago, the British pound was a glorious thing, prompting holidaymakers from these shores to gasp "wow, that's cheap" – either inwardly or out loud – from Timbuktu to the Costa del Sol. But the days of sterling's might are, at least for the time being, behind it.

However, just because we're not quite as quids-in as we used to be, doesn't mean we need to forego our holidays. Indeed, you don't need a vast amount of spending money to have a relaxing overseas break. It's an event that families, couples and individuals look forward to up and down the land – and is regarded as something of a necessity for our physical and mental wellbeing.

But how to make the withered pound go further? Here we offer our top tips for cutting those needless costs and fees.

1. Travel at the cheapest times

If you can be flexible, take advantage of cheaper off-peak fares.

2. Travel in low season

Flights and hotels are considerably cheaper before and after high season.

3. Bargain for hotels and tours

Hotel rooms are time sensitive – tour operators would rather sell a room at a discount than have it left empty. It's always worth asking for a price reduction.

4. Mix and match flights

You may find it is cheaper to fly out with one airline but return on another. Since low-fare airlines sell single tickets, it's easy to work out if savings are to be had.

5. Don't change your money at the airport

Airport exchange bureaux offer notoriously poor rates. Change money before you go, or take along sterling to change in inner city exchange offices. Withdrawing from an ATM might well be cheaper than using airport exchanges. Check online for other travellers' money exchange tips for the same destination.

6. Get a debit or credit card with no fees for international withdrawals

A number of specialist fee-free cards are available.

7. Get several quotes for travel money

Rates can vary a great deal. If money is tight, it's worth the effort.

8. Pre-book airport parking

Booking on the day can be a lot more expensive. Book ahead as far as you can.

9. Take your own food on your flight

While you may be able to last out without any grub until you arrive, your fellow travellers may not. Avoid paying £5 for a sandwich – and take your own. For a family of four travelling both ways it could mean savings of £20, at the very least.

10. Travel light and avoid baggage fees

Pack just the very basics for your trip and ensure they fit in your hand luggage. Consider a luggage jacket for getting even more items into the cabin without raising the eyebrows of the crew.

11. Consider a private room over a hotel

A number of websites such as AirBnB – let you book rooms in private homes. They are often extremely comfortable and well appointed, but more importantly, they are cheap.

12. Work out the cheapest transport options

Brush up on the cheapest ways to get around town: are there travel cards for tourists? Is your destination walkable if you download the applicable maps? Hiring city bicycles can also be a cheap and healthy way to get around. Avoid taxis like the plague.

13. Don't buy any souvenirs

Instead, pick up some especially charming shells or rocks for loved ones. And look out for other freebies such as promotional postcards and snazzy beermats – but leave that cool-looking beer glass on the table!

14. Eat local food

Avoid eateries designed for tourists, since they are much pricier than those aimed at locals. An English fry-up in Bangkok costs four or five times what a tasty bowl of street Pad Thai does.

15. Take out more affordable travel insurance

Here at starttravel.co.uk we offer comprehensive travel cover for all needs and budgets. Thousands of UK residents rely on our world-class cover each and every year. Why not get your quote today?

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