Spend Less Holiday More

Travel is expensive... and as a family of 4 who can only travel in school holidays, there's no such things as a cheap trip. We take at least 3 holidays a year and although our budget has increased over the years, it takes careful planning to allow us to indulge our wanderlust. Whether you take one trip a year or more, here are some of our tips to stretch your money to go further…

Holiday Fund

1) Book really early or very last minute. All our best flight and cruise deals were purchased 9 months or more in advance. If your dates are flexible though, you may be able to bag a cheap last minute package deal. Similarly train fares are cheaper if you book early.

2) Choose the right accommodation - there are some great budget hotel chains which offer family deals. For families, self catering apartments are usually better value for money and provide more space. Some hostels are a great option and most provide kitchen facilities to allow you to cook your own meals.

3) Research! Some of our best excursions were completely free! It's a case of checking out TripAdvisor and reading travel blogs.

4) Eating out can be pricey so find out what budget eateries are available or you can cook your own meals if you have access to a kitchen. In Asia, street food is cheap and delicious. Book somewhere to stay where you can go to nearby restaurants so you do not have to rely on expensive hotel meals and help the local economy.

5) Take public transport - this can be an adventure in itself!

6) Look out for deals - hotels may offer free breakfasts or transfers. Check with your travel agent if there are all inclusive packages.

7) Shop for supplies at supermarkets! It's amazing how much you can spend on airport snacks or in theme parks! Take a refillable water bottle to avoid paying £2 at WH Smiths and save the environment too!

8. Have a contingency fund. Sometimes things don't go to plan or you just fancy doing something extravagant. There's nothing more stressful than worrying about money when you are on holiday.

Finally, make sure you relax and enjoy your holiday. After all the planning, you deserve it.