Planning Your Trip With Budget Holiday Hacks
Here it is: that hot, sticky, summery feeling that means ‘holiday’ for so many of us. The smell of sunscreen, the sheen of sweat on your skin, hot concrete – whether you’re going to make the most of your summer holidays or looking to escape the warmer months overseas, planning a budget holiday is tough! We’ve thrown together our top budget holiday travelling tips to take the strain off your finances this holiday season.
Beg, Barter, and Bargain
The tourism industry thrives on negotiation. Remember its product sales are time-limited: when a bed goes unslept in or an airline seat is empty, it can’t be resold the next day. If you’re booking a budget holiday at the last minute, bargain hard!
Plan and Plan Again
Contrary to our last point, the best thing you can do for your budget is plan. The sooner you book your budget holiday, the more likely you are to snag early bird fares and reduced rates before the prices fly up for the season. The ideal dates and times to travel on holidays are usually the busiest and most expensive times to go. Research alternative dates that are better for your budget: hotels, flights, tours, and other tourism products are all seasonal, so the further from peak time, the cheaper it gets!
Ration, Measure, and Weigh Your Luggage
What to pack on holidays: as little as possible! Identify your basic travel needs and stick to them. Remember that one of the most enjoyable parts of a holiday is shopping: you’ll need all the extra space you can get on the way home. Be aware of the size and weight limits of luggage when you’re flying: you’d be surprised how quickly your budget blows out when you’re paying for additional bags. Less is best when you’re on a budget holiday: besides, it’s not about what you bring along, but what you experience when you’re there.
Arrange Your Own Excursions For A Budget Holiday
Tours are expensive, crowded, and well on the beaten path. Do some research and conduct your own side trips and adventures on your budget holiday. You’ll be surprised by what you find when you stray from the usual trail, and you get to escape the press and noise of a tour group!
Shop Around for Insurance For Your Budget Holiday
Travel insurance is a must, especially for budget holidays. It can be cheap when you’re buying online, particularly when all you’re shopping for is a basic policy, but it’s also easy to pay too much. Be particular in your choosing. Choose a policy that covers your needs without the extra frills: the best policies won’t tag on any unnecessary extras or hidden fees.
Dining Out? Look for Cheap Local Eats
One of the best ways to experience a country or region on a budget holiday is its food. Forget fancy restaurants and five-star dining. The best local food comes from hole-in-the-wall restaurants, street vendors, cosy cafes and buzzing bars. Quick tip: eat where the locals eat!
If you need a bit of financial help to get your holiday started. You can talk to us about a personal loan, then stretch it out with these budgeting tips. Talk to us on 1300 003 003 today.
