Money-Saving Travel Hacks

Travel Counsellors are experts at finding holiday that fit any budget. In challenging times, when money is tight and holidays seem out of reach, it’s smart to think outside the box to stretch your holiday funds further. My clients know that I handle the hard work of finding deals, ensuring their money goes a bit further. Here, I share some top travel agent hacks for making a big savings.

Switch destinations

Try a different holiday destination, and you may be surprised by how much cheaper it can be. For example, if you’re craving the opulence, shopping, glamour, and year-round sunshine of Dubai, consider swapping it for Marrakesh. This city break offers luxury that won’t break the bank and feels like a world away, yet it’s only a four-hour flight. The spas here are divine and affordable, the shopping in the local souks is incredible, and you can snap a glamorous photo for Instagram at the Jardin Majorelle, the Yves Saint Laurent House and Gardens.

Book early

Booking early gives you access to the best value rooms, cheaper flights, and often free child places. You can usually secure your holiday with a small deposit and then pay it off in manageable amounts over the year, making it easier to budget. You can book most holidays at least twelve months in advance, giving you more time to save and plan. The January sales are an excellent time to book, as airlines and hotels often offer significant discounts, so be sure to grab a bargain!

Travel in shoulder season

The shoulder season is the period just before or after peak travel times. It’s the sweet spot for savvy travellers looking to avoid crowds and high prices while still enjoying all the perks of a destination. For example, the Mediterranean in early October offers fabulous weather and warm seas, but without the summer crowds.

Go indirect

For long-haul travel, consider flying via another country instead of going direct. You can add an overnight stop, giving you an additional mini city break. Some airlines even offer complementary transit accommodation packages, including a hotel stay or a free guided city tour for transiting passengers.

Night owl or early bird

Consider booking flights at antisocial hours. Just be sure to set aside some time to catch up on sleep afterward, and you might want to stay at an inexpensive hotel near the airport to make early or late departures more convenient.

Check dates carefully

If you’re tied to school holidays, keep an eye out for additional inset days- an extra day can make a significant price difference. If you’re not restricted by school holidays, be flexible with your travel dates and trip duration, as this can lead to big savings.