Ten top ways of getting a cheaper holiday

How to book cheaper holidays

Simple, tried and tested methods to cut the cost of your holiday. Booking a discount flight or package deal is easier than ever.

1. Be Flexible on when you travel.
The most important factor in booking your holiday is when you go. The date of your holiday can make a huge difference to the cost. This is for many reasons, simple summed up it is to do with supply and demand. If you want to go when everyone else does, you will pay more.
The way to get a cheaper holiday is to go when fewer people want to go and then you are much more likely to bag a bargain.
Go at the very start of the season or at the very end. These weeks are more likely to have unpredictable weather but will be a lot cheaper and the weather could well be fine!

2. Be flexible on destination.
If your ideal destination is out of your budget, look for nearby locations and towns which will be cheaper to stay in. A short bus or car journey can get you to your favourite spot whilst you're away.

3. Avoid school holidays too as prices will be higher.
If you are on a very tight budget you can write and ask your children's school whether you can take some time off to allow your family to have a holiday.

4. Fly in the middle of the night.
These flights are less popular so will generally be cheaper.

5. Don't have a meal on the plane - on short haul flights meals are an optional extra. Take a sandwich or some snacks.

6. Don't specify seats on the plane - asking for a window seat or to sit together can add a big chunk of cash to your holiday costs.

7. Don't take extra luggage. Don't get stung by having to pay excess luggage charges. Ensure you know how much you can take and weight your case before you go.

8. Accomadation on arrival.
This is offered by lots of companies, usually if you're booking close to the date. It can often mean you get a great hotel too. Don't forget reps are there if you have any problems.

9. Book late.
Booking last minute can really save you big cash. However you might have to be packed and ready to go. If you're able to travel at very short notice and are happy to pick tickets up at the airport then this is a great way of saving yourself some cash. Keep a suitcase packed and ready to go if this is how you want to book your holidays. I have frequently seen last minute deals where there are about 6-10 hours before it leaves.

10. Be flexible on all your holiday requirements. Sometimes sharing a small appartment with the whole family is a lot cheaper than having two rooms. Play around with different room options by just filling in the numbers of adults and children on search options.