Travel expert Chelsea Dickenson revealed her top tips for booking a cheap summer holiday – and all it takes is some minor tweaks
A savvy travel expert has revealed her top tips for bagging a bargain summer holiday, and it could be as simple as tweaking the length of your trip.
Chelsea Dickenson, the mastermind behind Cheap Holiday Expert, regularly dishes out advice for those hunting for a budget-friendly getaway, whether in the UK or overseas.
As the summer season approaches, many Brits are eager to jet off for some much-needed sun, sea and sand. The school summer holidays often see a surge in demand for sunny escapes, but Chelsea has seven hacks up her sleeve to help you nab a great deal.
Some of these tips might already be part of your holiday booking routine, but there are also fresh ideas to consider. If budget is a concern, try swimming against the tide when choosing your next holiday spot, reports Wales Online.
Consider an ‘irregular’ holiday duration
This first tip might seem unconventional, but Chelsea suggests considering a holiday of an ‘irregular length’. While most people opt for a seven, 10 or 14-day break, you could potentially save money by going for eight days instead.
By extending your trip by just a day or two, you could keep more cash in your pocket. This could affect the cost of your flights and might even get you a better deal on accommodation.
Avoid popular tourist hotspots
Brits love a good holiday in sunny Spain, Italy, France, and Greece, but travel guru Chelsea suggests looking beyond the usual hotspots. On her website, she advises: “So for Spain, swap out the islands and head inland up into the gorgeous Andalusian hills for stunning scenery and much cheaper prices.”
But it’s not just about avoiding the crowds; there are hidden treasures across Europe waiting to be discovered. For those keen to dodge the British tourist wave, Chelsea recommends Albania, Bulgaria, and Montenegro as fantastic alternatives.
City breaks
When it comes to summer breaks, don’t just think of beaches, cities can offer incredible value too. Chelsea has found that city breaks can be real bargains, especially during the school holidays when most are jetting off to the coast.
With a plethora of European cities to explore, you’re sure to find one that ticks all your boxes.
Last-minute getaways
And if you’re flexible with your dates, last-minute deals can be a wallet-friendly way to enjoy an impromptu escape. Booking holidays well in advance can sometimes save you a few quid, but occasionally, you can snag a bargain at the eleventh hour.
Many travel operators offer last-minute packages, hotels and flights for specific dates at a reduced rate. Keep an open mind about your destination and what you want from your holiday. Shop around on various sites to compare prices between providers.