6 ways to save on your summer holiday

As the summer holidays draw nearer, it pays to plan ahead to make sure you’re getting the best deal.

Whether you’ve already booked a break, or are intending to make one in the coming weeks, here are six handy tips to save some cash:

1. Start a holiday savings pot

Even if you’ve already booked and paid for your summer getaway, you could still start a fund for your holiday spending money now. That way, you can contribute to it over a few monthly pay packets, rather than waiting until nearer the time, when it may be more tempting to put spending on credit.

2. Make your travel money stretch further overseas

Buying travel money at the airport may be convenient, but it can also be significantly more expensive, so give yourself plenty of time beforehand to shop around for currency.

If you’re buying currency online, consumer group Which? recommends taking into account any delivery or handling fees. It’s also worth checking whether there’s a minimum order threshold.

3. Save money on flights

If you fancy a trip but you don’t mind where, flight comparison website Skyscanner has an “explore everywhere” option, to help holidaymakers check out a broad range of cost-effective deals.

Which? also suggests people could consider their options for flying to and from a country using different airlines, or even different airports, although this may eat into holiday time and could also mean additional local travel costs.

4. Save on a staycation

If you have set your heart on visiting a particular region, it may be worth swapping a popular town or city for somewhere less well-known nearby, to save money.

It could also be worth contacting accommodation providers directly, as well as browsing comparison websites.

If the property is big enough, inviting wider family or friends along could help to make the holiday cheaper per person.

5. Save on your travel insurance

Using a broker to find suitable cover could help to keep your insurance costs down. Some people may find it harder to find a suitable deal themselves, for example, if they have a pre-existing medical condition, or if they are elderly.

6. Don’t be caught out by “too good to be true” prices

If a holiday looks too much of a bargain, then it may be a scam.

Fraudsters advertising “cheap travel deals” may ask for payments via bank transfer, or use fake booking websites to obtain your personal information.

If you’re unsure, do further research and look for independent reviews. Don’t be pressured into booking quickly to avoid “losing out”.