5 Tips: Save money when booking your holiday with kids
Family holidays are a cherished time, but they can also be a costly affair, especially when compared to the trips you used to take as a couple. The first 4 to 5 years, before your children start school, you can avoid the peak seasons. However, once they start school, the cost of your family trip will inevitably rise.
1. Book your trip months in advance or at the last minute
Both strategies can offer you a discount. Booking well in advance often comes with an early bird discount. On the other hand, last-minute bookings can also be cheaper. The only downside to this is that your options may be limited. If you have specific requirements for your location, accommodation, and other aspects of your trip, it’s advisable to book months in advance. This way, you can secure the discount and ensure your trip meets all your expectations.
2. Subscribe to Newsletters
Travel operators, agencies, and airlines often announce their best deals and discounts on their own websites. By subscribing to their newsletters, you’ll be among the first to know about these offers. Don’t forget to follow their social media pages as well, as they often share exclusive deals there. Additionally, consider following discount-focused pages like Holiday Guru and Ticketspy, which offer a variety of affordable city trips, flights, and all-inclusive package deals.
3. Avoid Double Costs
Family holidays can be expensive, so it’s crucial to ensure you’re not paying for the same thing twice. For instance, when booking a trip, check your insurance policies. Many credit cards offer free damage insurance for rental cars, eliminating the need for additional coverage. Similarly, your health insurance may cover medical costs incurred abroad, so there’s no need to duplicate this coverage in your travel insurance.
4. Compare Prices
It’s always a good idea to compare prices before making a booking. The cost of accommodation can vary significantly between different travel agents or booking engines. Before you finalize your booking, check the rates offered when booking the accommodation directly.
5. Delete Cookies
Many websites track your search behavior using cookies, which can sometimes result in higher prices if you visit the site multiple times. To ensure you’re seeing the lowest rates, make a habit of deleting your cookies regularly. If you’re not tech-savvy, you can find instructions on how to delete cookies here.
I hope these tips will help you save on your next family holiday! If you have any additional tips, feel free to share them in the comments.