Summer is well and truly here and, with the school holidays imminent, many families will be heading off on their well-earned summer holidays. But with inflation and fluctuating currency markets, holiday budgets aren’t stretching as far as they used to. The good news is that with a little planning, you can still make the most of your money and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Figure Out The Best Way To Spend Abroad
It’s vital that you research your holiday money. As technology has improved, there are now more ways than ever to get the best exchange rates. Digital travel cards such as Revolut, Monzo, and Wise often offer better rates than traditional banks and don’t charge excessive foreign transaction fees.
If you prefer cash, shop around for the best exchange rates rather than exchanging at the airport, where the rates are notoriously poor. Online comparison tools can help you find the best deal. If you have to get currency at the airport, call ahead to see if you can secure a better rate in advance.
Choose Your Holiday Times Carefully
Everyone knows that between July and September is when holiday prices are at their highest thanks to school holidays, often doubling from what they were in the earlier months of the year. If you are booking your travel independently, rather than relying on a package holiday, then make sure you use price comparison websites like Skyscanner or Google Flights.
These tools allow you to check flight prices on different dates, sometimes saving you hundreds of pounds. If you’re open to flexible travel dates, flying midweek can be significantly cheaper. Also, consider alternative destinations where your money goes further—countries like Turkey and Eastern Europe often provide better value compared to Western Europe.
Pack An Airport Picnic
Airports are notoriously expensive when it comes to food and drink. A simple way to save is to bring your own food. While you can’t take liquids through security, you can pack sandwiches, snacks, and fruit. Many airports now offer free water refill stations, so bringing an empty reusable bottle can help cut down on costly drinks. If you’re traveling with children, a packed lunch can be a lifesaver, especially on long-haul flights.
Check You Have The Right Documents
Many families don’t realize that some destinations now require an electronic visa or travel authorization. The EU’s new ETIAS system, launching in 2025, will require British travelers to apply in advance before visiting certain European countries.
The USA still requires an ESTA for British visitors, while destinations like Australia have their own e-visas. If you arrive at the airport without the right documentation, you will be refused travel, and you won’t get a refund. Apply for your visas well in advance, as some approvals can take weeks or even months. Any mistakes on your application can mean rejection, so double-check all details before submitting.
Be Wary Of Car Rental Prices
If you’re hiring a car abroad, be mindful of hidden costs. Car rental companies often advertise cheap rates but then add on fees for insurance, sat-navs, and child seats. To avoid this:
- Book in advance to secure the best price.
- Use price comparison sites to find the best deals from reputable providers.
- Check the insurance excess fees—instead of paying a high fee at the rental desk, consider getting separate excess insurance online at a lower cost.
- Check for parking fees– If staying in a city centre car park, expect higher charges.
- Understand fuel policies—some companies charge extra if you don’t return the car with a full tank.
Final Thoughts
With some planning and smart spending choices, you can make the most of your holiday budget and avoid unnecessary expenses. Whether it’s booking flights at the right time, using a digital travel card, or packing your own snacks for the journey, small changes can lead to big savings. Enjoy your holiday in 2025 without breaking the bank!