Short family breaks

If you are looking for a cheap getaway this summer then you may start by looking for short break deals. With the school summer holidays nearly upon us, you will soon see a massive spike in prices as holiday companies take advantage of the strict rules regarding taking children out of school during term time.

If you do not have to go in the school holidays, then I would definitely recommend avoiding these times. If however you are constricted to the school holidays, don’t worry, there are still some bargains to be found. You will need to spend some time trailing through discount voucher sites, independent websites and speaking to travel agents to find a holiday that is right for you and within your budget but if you are flexible on where you go then you could still bag an amazing bargain holiday that the whole family will enjoy.

 

Accommodation for self-catering holidays in the UK

When choosing a holiday in the UK you have a number of options when it comes to accommodation. You can stay in a hotel, bed and breakfast, lodge/cottage/apartment, caravan or tent. Staying in a tent is often the cheapest option as some campsites charge as little as four pounds per night for a pitch, but often have very little else in terms of entertainment and facilities on site. This is often perfect for families who want to enjoy camping and don’t plan to spend much time on site. If you are looking for something a little more like home then you could opt for a caravan but the prices do often rise steeply often averaging from £50-£100 per night. But have you ever considered glamping? Glamping is the new way of camping that allows you the excitement of camping with the comfort of a caravan of lodge. Safari tents are often available at many campsite sites across the UK such as Haven and offer comfort and a good range of equipment at a lower price than a caravan.

 

 

Can’t afford a holiday?

If you really want to get away but cannot afford or cannot take time off to go on a week/ two week holiday then try and fit in a few mini breaks. You can even go abroad for a long weekend and have a fantastic time. These types of breaks can be found at fantastic prices if you shop around a bit and especially if you can go last minute.

Everyone needs a break from work or day to day life from time to time and holidays can be such a big expense. Managing to get away for a few days or even an overnight stay can be exactly what you need and this way you can afford to have a few throughout the year. An overnight stay in a spa can do you the world of good and an often be purchased for as little as £80-£100 per couple with meals included.

If you have never tried a mini break then I would highly recommend them, and they are great for all the family no matter how young or old.

 

Finding cheap family holidays abroad

Every family wants to go on holiday and often it may be that you want to go abroad. Often this is not possible as the cost is too high, but there are ways to find low cost holidays that everyone can enjoy.

If you are not limited to going within the school holidays then I would strongly recommend avoiding these times as prices for flights and accommodation can often double during school holiday periods.

Make sure that you compare the same or similar holidays through a number of holiday brokers or direct with companies as I have seen the same holiday for over £200 less than on a previous site, making a huge saving by just doing a few searches. When you find a holiday that you like, be sure to read all the information. It may be that you are restricted on flight luggage or that transfers to and from the airport are extra. If this is the case then add on what you need to give you a total figure. You may find that once you have added the extras on it is actually cheaper to go with a company where the price quoted initially includes all of those things already.

Romantic breaks away

If you are looking for a getaway with your loved one, there are many holidays and trips on offer that you can chose from. It may be that your trip is limited by budget or location (due to time constraints) or maybe you have a particular place in mind that has fond memories for you.

Some hotels offer package breaks which may include access to a spa, meals and drinks or days out allowing you to save money and plan your entire trip. These packages will often costs less than if you had to pay for each of the items individually and also mean that you do not have to worry about saving up to take a lot of spending money with you.

Voucher sites such as Groupon and Living Social often have package holidays and breaks away that are advertised at a 50% reduction, making them almost impossible to beat. Always be sure to check the terms and conditions when booking a package deal as you may be restricted to times when you can use it.

 

Keeping your valuables safe when on holiday

If you are going away on holiday then you need to consider how you are going to look after your belongings and ensure they are safe. You should try and think about this when you are packing your case and take as few valuables as possible.

It is always nice to be able to take expensive jewellery and gadgets away with you, but are they all really necessary and how would you feel if you lost them? If you do need to take them with you then make sure that you put them somewhere safe for the trip, if flying then probably in your hand luggage (if permitted). This way you can keep an eye on them.

Once you arrive at your destination, find out if there is a safe in your room or if there is a safe you can use at reception to store any items that are really valuable. This may cost you extra and be a little inconvenient, but is usually money well spent.

 

Family holidays and short breaks

If you are looking for a family holiday for a weekend or week away then you may want to explore one of the companies that specialise in these sorts of UK holidays. Butlins and Pontins are two of the largest family holiday resorts and they are situated all over the UK. They have resorts in beach locations as well as in shore and there’s a wealth of activities for all the family.

You may pay a little more than a standard campsite to stay at one of these resorts but once you are there, you do not have to spend much on entertainment as it is all provided on site. With kids clubs, evening entertainment and soft play / outdoor play areas, there is something for everyone.

The accommodation varies from resort to resort so be sure to read reviews before booking as some places have better reputations than others, but if you want a family getaway that doesn’t cost the earth, then this could be for you.