Easy hacks to save money on your next holiday including paying in local currency
Finding hotels where kids stay for free and being smart about car insurance are just two of the ways to save money on holidays.
Over the past year the cost of a getaway - like much else - has risen significantly.
The price of a package holiday to Spain, Turkey and Italy jumped by 20% or more from summer 2021 to summer 2022, and a week in Greece now costs a whopping 30% more on average.
Flights to popular destinations are up by as much as 71% compared with 2022, while hotel rates have risen above inflation.
If you are still hoping to getaway but want to save a little cash while doing so, money experts at Sambla have provided a roundup of the top cash saving holiday hacks.
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Don't get caught out paying over the odds to get cash out (Getty Images/Image Source)Pay in the local currency
When paying by card abroad, you may have noticed that the card terminal gives you the option to pay in either the local currency or that from your home country; always select the local currency.
Even though you won’t be able to see the exchange rate immediately, it will be cheaper than paying in the latter.
In fact, your bank or payment provider will want you to select your home currency, as often this will mean that you’re given a poor exchange rate, allowing them to profit off the difference.
Alternatively, you can also apply for a travel credit or debit card before your holidays, or even a prepaid card that allows you to lock in the exchange rate.
Look for child ‘free’ stays
Many hotels offer free stays for children and infants when booking family package holidays, as well as big brands such as TUI, easyJet and Jet2.
The age limit of a child can vary depending on the hotel, but is often up to the age of 12, with some hotels even going up to 14 and 16 years old.
To find out more, search ‘Free child place finder’ online.
Cut down your flight costs
It’s easy to get lost in the excitement and book flights as soon as your holiday gets approved at work, but did you know that to get the best deal on flights often it is better to book them last minute?
This is because airlines adjust their prices to meet demand, and so any empty seats in the days head of the flight will likely go for a little less.
It is of course a risky game to play, as some flights sell out completely.
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Choosing the right time to buy plane tickets is key (Getty Images)Another useful but more well known tip is to ensure that you clear your browsing history and cookies to prevent sites from being able to see if you're revisiting, and upping the prices.
You can also browse incognito by right clicking the menu in your search browser.
Book car hire on your credit card
One of the most expensive parts of hiring a car abroad is the added insurance. However, some credit cards cover this cost if you make the booking with them.
For example, many Visa Signature members automatically get rental collision and damage coverage.
Be sure to check the terms and conditions for liability and medical cover, as well as other things you may want to be covered for on your holiday.
Purchase points
Before booking a hotel, check to see whether you can pay with loyalty points. Many big hotel names such as Hilton and Hyatt allow you to pay using loyalty points, and this can sometimes be cheaper.
If you don’t already have points with your chosen hotel, then often they can be purchased directly on the hotel’s website.
Keep an eye throughout the year too, as sometimes hotels run a sale on these.
- You can find out more on www.sambla.se.
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