We all dream of the perfect holiday that doesn’t break the bank. That’s why the internet is packed with never-ending lists of tips and tricks designed to save you money.
But there’s a problem. Who has time to trawl through page after page of advice when they’re so busy getting excited about a well-earned break?
At Aspire Travel, we like to keep things simple. So while there are hundreds of ways you could save money on your trip, we’ve put together our very own list of the five most essential tips we know of.
1. Set your budget upfront
With the right combination of deals and dates, we believe you can get an unforgettable trip on almost any budget – but our biggest tip of all is getting a clear idea of what you want to spend as early as possible.
Think about what your travel budget could be, including flights, accommodation, activities and meals. Of course, it’s fine if you can only come up with a loose range you’re happy to spend. Setting yourself some boundaries is a great way to start as you mean to go on – and of getting yourself motivated to think about your budget all the way.
2. Stay flexible about when you travel
By now, we all know that the time of year you decide to travel is going to make a big difference to the price you pay. But it’s not just high and low seasons that matter. In fact, the days of the week and times you choose to fly – or even check into a hotel – can have a serious impact on costs. The more flexible you can be, the more likely you are to find the price you’re looking for.
3. Don’t blow your budget at the airport
The airport isn’t just where your holiday begins – it’s where your spending starts, too. With a captive audience, airports charge double, even triple what you’d expect to pay for travel accessories and food. That’s not to mention the hidden costs you might encounter with your luggage or currency exchange.
We recommend sitting down and making a list of everything you need before you leave, then getting it cut-price at your local supermarket or bargains shop. And when it comes to food, don't be afraid to pack a picnic for the plane. The liquids ban only applies to, well, liquids, so your lunch is safe to bring on board.
4. Think like a local
We all love exploring those big tourist hotspots, but heading off the beaten path can be a great way to save money while you’re overseas. The locals need lunch, a decent cup of coffee, or a laid-back evening meal – and, trust us, they’re not paying more than they have to.
If you don’t fancy wandering the streets, there’s an app for that. Download useful restaurant apps like OpenTable and LocalEats before you leave, and get an at-a-glance view of the best – and cheapest – restaurants and cafes wherever you find yourself.
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