Holidays are expensive in the summer, but the half-term break can offer cheaper options than the main school holidays. As long as you’re prepared for the weather, you can still have a great break at a fraction of the cost.
Do your research
If you want to take the kids to a theme park resort, it can seem like you’re throwing good money after bad, but there are ways to get a great deal. Annual passes can seem like a huge outlay. but look at the cost over a year rather than one big outlay and work out how many times you’re likely to use them during that year. If it’s more than once (and chances are it will be) then an annual pass may actually work out cheaper.
Passes to the local zoo or theme park can also be paid for with Tesco Clubcard points, a great way to get a day out or even a few days away, for less than the cost of a child’s ticket.
Check the days you travel
When you’re looking at booking your break, always check the prices for the day before and the day after, to see if it alters the price. Often arriving on a Sunday can be considerably cheaper, as can checking in on the Friday they finish rather than waiting to leave on the Saturday morning.
Offer codes and voucher codes
Never pay full price. Before buying any ticket, trip or accommodation, always check for a discount code online. Many offer armed forces discount, or NHS discount as well. Some offer a percentage off if you book a few days before you want to travel and even offer free child places. Some train tickets also offer two for one entry.
Check your accommodation costs as well. Is there an alternative? An AirB&B could be a cheaper option, or is there a privately owned guesthouse that’s actually cheaper then the national chain?
Sites like Trivago will ensure you get the best deal – and don’t get bamboozled into paying extra for breakfast. Consider the cost without one, as you can easily pack your own cereal bars.
Further afield
If you’re looking at going further afield, it’s also worth checking for last minute offers, also alternative airports you could fly into that have train or bus connections. Flying into a lesser known airport can save you hundreds of pounds, with connections by local public transport working out much cheaper than back home.
Again, check for a voucher code, many will offer a first time registering discount, or you could also redeem your supermarket points on Eurotunnel, flights or tickets.
