5 money saving tips for an affordable family holiday

The first of our tips for family travel on a budget involves setting a realistic budget for yourself. Take the time needed to research the average costs of accommodation, transportation, food and activities in your desired destination. Look for online resources like review websites and forums for insights into the area.

You also must allocate funds wisely. Once you’ve figured out your budget, you can allocate funds to different priorities. For example, you might choose to spend more on accommodation and travel while cutting back on dining out. By making conscious decisions about where to allocate your funds, you can better control your spending.

You should look for off-peak seasons at your destination to make a saving in price. These are times when tourist demand is lower, and prices tend to be more affordable. Not only will you save money on flights and accommodation, but you'll also likely find shorter queues at popular attractions and a more relaxed atmosphere overall, including in the airport.

Also, try to be flexible with your schedule – if it allows. Prices can vary significantly depending on the day of the week or the time of the month, both in terms of flights and hotels. Consider travelling midweek or during weekdays instead of weekends to take advantage of lower fares and rates.

Another option for an affordable family holiday includes opting for self-catering accommodation. This can provide several advantages for a family holiday, as you’re more likely to have more space with amenities like a kitchen. Having a kitchen allows you to prepare your own meals, which can save you a substantial amount on dining expenses, especially for breakfast and dinner. It also gives you the flexibility to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences, which can be challenging with children!

Many holiday booking companies offer discounts for self-catering bookings. Be sure to compare prices from different sources, read reviews, and consider reaching out to the property owners directly to negotiate better rates.

If you do need a little pick-me-up, you can get 25% off your morning coffee with tastecard’s Coffee Club.

Another good idea for family travel on a budget is to keep an eye out for early-bird offers by airlines, hotels and booking companies. Booking well in advance can often lead to significant savings, as prices tend to increase as the travel dates approach. Take advantage of comparison websites that allow you to compare prices from different airlines, hotel chains, and online travel agencies. This way, you can find the best deals and make informed decisions about your bookings.

You can make big savings with Hotels.com through tastecard, so check out the offer to see if you can find a bargain.

Many destinations offer beautiful parks, gardens, beaches, or hiking trails that are free to visit. Research these natural attractions and plan some outdoor adventures for your family. Not only will you save money, but you'll also have a chance to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Additionally, some museums and attractions offer free admission on specific days or times. Research if any of the attractions you plan to visit have such offers and plan your trip accordingly. Also, look for attractions that offer discounted or bundled tickets for families.

With a tastecard subscription, you’re able to make huge savings on attractions all over the UK. Places like SEA LIFE, Madame Tussauds, Thorpe Park, and more, can be enjoyed at a fraction of the usual cost.