5 Simple Ways to Make Your Next Holiday More Affordable

Planning your next getaway doesn’t have to leave your wallet in shock. If you’re wondering how to keep costs under control while still enjoying a dream destination, there are plenty of smart, stress-free ways to stretch your budget without cutting corners. Let’s look at five practical tips you can start using right away to make your holiday both memorable and affordable.

1. Choose a Good Booking Website

The first step in finding the most incredible low cost holiday deals is knowing where to book. You don’t want to spend hours scouring the internet only to overpay for flights, accommodation, or packages. Look for platforms that offer all-inclusive deals or exclusive discounts on destinations like Greece, Portugal, or Turkey.

How can you tell if a platform is the right fit? Consider these:

Does it bundle flights and hotels at a reduced rate?
Are there clear breakdowns of prices, so you’re not caught off guard by hidden fees?
Is there flexibility with payment plans, cancellations, or upgrades?

Using the right site can also help you uncover lesser-known gems like Cape Verde, Albania, or Montenegro, which tend to offer more value than their pricier counterparts like Italy or France.

2. Travel Off-Peak

Timing is everything when it comes to saving money on a holiday. Have you thought about shifting your travel dates to the shoulder or off-peak seasons? This simple switch can make a huge difference in price without compromising your experience.

For example, visiting destinations like Spain or Thailand just outside their high season still gives you great weather, fewer crowds, and lower costs. Accommodation prices drop significantly, and you’ll often find cheaper flights, too.

Not sure when off-peak times are? Here’s a quick tip:

Peak season is usually summer (June to August) and holidays like Christmas.
Shoulder seasons are the months just before or after, like April-May or September-October.
Off-peak times often fall in winter or early spring, depending on the destination (except ski resorts!).

The bonus? Off-peak travel often gives you a more authentic experience, as locals reclaim their cities from the tourist hustle.

3. Be Smart About Accommodation

Let’s face it: fancy hotels and resorts can eat up a huge chunk of your budget. But you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to save. By exploring alternative accommodation options, you can reduce costs while still staying somewhere you’ll love.

Consider these ideas:

Apartments and Villas

Perfect for families or groups. In places like Italy or Croatia, renting a villa can cost less per person than booking multiple hotel rooms.

All-Inclusive Resorts

While the upfront cost seems high, these often save money by bundling meals, drinks, and activities. They’re especially popular in destinations like Egypt, Mauritius, or Mexico.

Smaller Boutique Hotels

These hidden gems in Morocco, Georgia, or Hungary often provide a personalised touch for a fraction of the price.

By being flexible and open to alternatives, you might discover unique stays that enhance your holiday without breaking the bank.

4. Plan Activities Wisely

It’s easy to overspend on activities when you’re caught up in the excitement of exploring a new destination. The secret to enjoying more while spending less? Prioritise experiences that offer the most value.

For instance:

Opt for free or low-cost attractions like museums in Poland, ancient ruins in Cyprus, or scenic hikes in Switzerland. Many destinations offer free walking tours or discounted passes to multiple attractions.
Book excursions in advance. Whether it’s snorkelling in Seychelles or hot-air ballooning in Turkey, booking ahead often saves money compared to last-minute reservations.
Skip pricey group tours and explore on your own. Public transport and DIY sightseeing in places like Netherlands or Vietnam can be just as rewarding.

By planning ahead and doing a little research, you can focus your spending on the activities that matter most to you.

5. Save on Food and Drinks

Dining out is one of the easiest ways to overspend on holiday. However, with a few small adjustments, you can savour local flavours without burning through your budget.

Here’s how:

Eat where the locals eat

Restaurants geared toward tourists tend to charge more. Ask around or look for busy spots filled with locals—it’s usually a good sign of quality and affordability.

Embrace street food

From pad Thai in Thailand to fresh pastries in France, street vendors often offer some of the tastiest (and cheapest) meals.

Shop at markets

Pick up fresh produce, bread, and local specialties for an inexpensive picnic or quick breakfast. This works particularly well in destinations like Italy, Portugal, or Singapore.

Limit alcohol

Cocktails by the beach might sound dreamy, but they can quickly add up. Consider enjoying a drink at your accommodation or choosing happy-hour specials to keep costs down.

Small Changes, Big Savings

The key to an affordable holiday isn’t cutting corners—it’s about making thoughtful choices that add value to your experience. Whether you’re travelling to Morocco, UAE, or Bulgaria, these strategies can help you enjoy your trip without worrying about money.

Start by picking a reliable booking platform, then choose your timing carefully. From there, smart decisions about accommodation, activities, and meals will help your budget stretch further than you might expect.

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