High Days and Holidays – On A Budget

Last month we spoke at length about Blue Monday. Yes, it’s a construct, a marketing ploy. Nonetheless it’s very much based upon a general feeling of malaise, lethargy, and just ‘meh’ prevalent during the wintry months. The clever marketing people tasked by holiday companies to drive sales knew what they were doing. However, it’s important not to get swept up in dreams of sun, sand and all-inclusive luxury if your finances are under pressure.

Don’t Fall for Spending Big on Holidays

It’s a hard truth that we feel that we ‘need’ a holiday. Of course we do. It’s cold, it’s wet, January lasted for about twelvety weeks and February is likely to be just as rainy, snowy, icy or whatever climactic misery it throws at us. The holiday companies are very well aware of this – that’s why the holiday advertisements start bombarding us from Boxing Day onwards – and cynically sell, sell, sell. They’re businesses, they have staff to pay, we get it. But it’s important not to fall for it if funds simply won’t allow.

That said, everyone deserves a break and it’s vital to have things to look forward to. Making memories may be an overused cliché but that’s because it’s true, and holidays or family trips are a big part of that. So, how can you book a break on a budget?

Holidays That Don’t Break the Bank

Booking holidays or short breaks while saving money requires a mix of planning, flexibility, and savvy booking techniques. Sometimes it requires a compromise. Don’t completely dismiss UK beach holidays – the source of many happy childhood memories. Sometimes all that’s needed is a bucket and spade, and chips on the seafront. Also, have a look into camping which can be great fun with a group of friends or family.

There are several money-saving and family day out groups on social media which can be a great source of ideas, hints, and tips. Other useful suggestions include:

• Be flexible with travel dates: Travelling mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) is often cheaper than weekends.
• Consider travelling off-peak seasons (e.g., late January–March or September–early December) if you’re not restricted to school holidays. This offers significant savings.
• Look at alternative destinations – less touristy, or up-and-coming, spots can be more affordable and just as enjoyable. Albania for example is beautiful – but much cheaper than Croatia.
• Use comparison sites and set alerts – you can compare flights and accommodation on platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, Kayak, and Expedia.
• Set up price alerts to track deals and book when prices drop.
• Book in advance – for flights and hotels, booking 2–3 months in advance often secures the best prices.
• Conversely, booking at the last minute can scoop up cancellations and last-minute deals (especially for package holidays) can be found on sites like Lastminute.com, Travelzoo, and Secret Escapes.
• Research alternative airports. The prices of flights can vary tremendously but do ensure you factor in time and travel costs.
• Look at alternative transport – Eurostar, ferries, or even coach travel can offer terrific value for European trips and city breaks.
• Make use of cashback sites and discount codes. Sites like TopCashback or Quidco can deliver extra savings or incentives. Check for discount codes on sites like VoucherCodes before booking. Discount sites like Groupon and Wowcher sometimes have great travel deals, too.
• Self-Catering or budget-friendly stays – Airbnb, Vrbo, or holiday parks can be cheaper than hotels, especially for families.
• Consider loyalty schemes like Premier Inn’s value deals or sign up for member discounts with hotels. If you use credit cards, check for travel reward schemes like Avios (British Airways), Virgin Flying Club, or credit cards that offer points towards holidays, and supermarket schemes like Tesco Clubcard offer modest travel discounts on partners like Eurotunnel and Hotels.com.
• Look at package deals & all-inclusive offers. Budget holiday firms like Jet2holidays, TUI, and EasyJet Holidays often have package deals that can be more affordable than booking separately. All-inclusive options can help manage costs by covering food and drinks in advance.
• Travel with friends or family, as booking group accommodations (like lodges, villas, or large Airbnbs) can split costs. Look for group discounts on attractions and transport.

There’s one area of expenditure which must never, ever be compromised – and that’s travel insurance including appropriate health cover. To neglect insurance could be a very expensive mistake indeed.

Memories Matter

If money simply won’t stretch to flights this year, there are budget-friendly destinations in the UK – traditional seaside resorts can be excellent value. Cornwall’s St Ives may never be cheap, but if it’s a family holiday, the kids will probably prefer Blackpool or Llandudno anyway.

Never be pressured or guilt-tripped into spending more than you can afford or borrowing to afford a trip abroad. Memories are so much more than expensive or instagrammable places, and sometimes, travelling on a budget can lead to adventures and experiences you may otherwise miss. You can enjoy great holidays without overspending.

If you’re struggling with money, or worried about your finances, contact us. We are here to help and reaching out is the first step.