With the six week summer break approaching fast, we reveal our savviest tips for great value family holidays…
Don’t leave it too late Holiday discounts are usually based on demand. When demand is low, suppliers are left with empty airline seats and hotel rooms and often reduce them to make sure they’re filled. So, if you’re travelling in low season and you’re not particularly bothered where you end up, you could grab a last minute holiday bargain. Where demand is high, less seats and beds are available, so there are less reasons for tour operators and airlines to offer discounts. This means that late booking during the school holidays doesn’t usually get you the best deal. In fact, as demand increases and availability lessens, prices are more likely to soar. There’s also less likely to be room in the popular family locations and more in 18-30 resorts, for example. If you’re travelling in peak season and know what you want, it makes sense to book as early as you can.
Take to the seas Cruises are much more affordable than you might think – and offer a wonderful adventure for children. With modern ships boasting facilities like play areas, 3D cinemas and water parks, kids of all ages are kept entertained. Spas, gyms, ice rinks and rock climbing walls mean that grown ups have plenty to do too. Dining is flexible and all meals are included in the cost of most cruises, meaning they’re often surprisingly good value for money.
Build your own Dynamic packages (as they’re known in the industry) often work out much cheaper than their ready-made cousins. By selecting your own flights, accommodation and transfers, you get complete flexibility and choice as well as a better deal. Our website is impartial, with options from an array of airlines and accommodation suppliers. Build your own holiday, just as you want it to be and save money into the bargain.
Self cater Self-catering holidays often end up with most meals being taken in restaurants, which can work out expensive. But with careful planning, these holidays can be fun and affordable. Choose a well-equipped apartment with a furnished balcony or terrace and you can enjoy home-cooked, al fresco meals without leaving your accommodation. Visit local supermarkets for freshly baked bread and produce. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and teach children about new food.
All inclusive All inclusive holidays have long been a hit with budget-concious families. Pay one price up front and rest assured that yu’ll need to take virtually no spending money away with you. Food, drink and entertainment are all part of the package. Many large all inclusive complexes are located on the beach and have swimming pools, kids’ clubs and even slides, meaning plenty for children to do.
Away from the Euro Holidays in Turkey and other non-Euro destinations grow more and more popular each year. Choose a location out of the EU and your pound is likely to go a lot further. Think Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Cape Verde, the Caribbean and the USA. Even further afield destinations can work out cheaper than those closer to home when demand is high in the school holidays. Not only will your accommodation be cheaper, but so will your food, spends and shopping.
Book your perfect family holiday online, or call us for friendly, expert advice on 0800 408 4130.
Customers in selected areas of the North East can also take advantage of our school holiday discount scheme, which works in partnership with local authorities, offering a 10% discount off family holidays that are taken completely out of term time. Participating authorities include Sunderland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Durham, Darlington, Stockton, Gateshead, Middlesbrough and Hartlepool..
