A travel guru who specialises in finding bargain summer holidays has revealed her top tips for saving money on your next trip – and it could be as simple as tweaking the length of your stay.
Chelsea Dickenson, the savvy mind behind Cheap Holiday Expert, regularly dishes out advice, tips and tricks for those seeking a budget-friendly holiday, whether at home or abroad.
As the summer season is now upon us, many Brits are eager to jet off to sunnier climes for a dose of sea, sand and sunshine. The school summer holidays often see a surge in demand for sunny escapes, but Chelsea has seven clever hacks to help you bag a bargain.
While some of these might already be part of your holiday booking routine, there are also fresh tips to try. If budget is a concern, consider swimming against the tide when choosing your next holiday destination, reports Wales Online.
Opt for an ‘unusual’ holiday duration
Chelsea’s first tip might seem unconventional, but she suggests considering a holiday of an ‘irregular length’. While most people typically book a holiday for seven, 10 or 14 days, you could potentially save money by opting for an eight-day break instead of a week.
By extending your trip by just a day or two, you could make significant savings. This could affect the cost of your flights and might even secure you a better deal on accommodation.
Avoid popular tourist hotspots
Brits have long favoured holiday spots like Spain, Italy, France, and Greece, but travel guru Chelsea suggests considering less-trodden paths for better deals. 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.”
For those keen to dodge the British tourist crowds, Chelsea recommends giving countries such as Albania, Bulgaria, and Montenegro a go, as they boast plenty to see and do.
City breaks
When it comes to summer holidays, beach destinations might be your first thought, but Chelsea points out that city breaks can offer significant savings. She notes that while city trips are typically popular during the shoulder season, they can provide great value during the school holidays when most are eyeing coastal retreats.
With an abundance of European cities to explore, there’s bound to be one that suits every traveller’s taste.
Last-minute deals
And for those with flexible schedules, last-minute holidays can also lead to substantial savings. 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.