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Mr Purple Explains: How to Holiday On A Budget

Going on holiday doesn't have to break the bank - here's our top tips for saving the pennies.

Choose your destination wisely - if you haven't already booked!

Every year the Post Office publishes research on the cost of holidaying in various countries. Here you can compare, for example, the cost of a cup of coffee, a beer, three-course meal or suncream in the 20 most popular holiday destinations. In 2020, Vilinus in Lithuania and Warsaw in Poland came out on top as one of the cheapest city break destinations in Europe, closely followed by Krakow, Zagreb and Bratislava.

Don't fly at the weekend if possible

Scour the price comparison sites for the best deals on flights and accommodation and, if you can, avoid travelling at peak times to make the most of your holiday budget. Weigh up whether all-inclusive or self-catering will work out better value for you; and consider lower-star rated or more unusual accommodation - check TripAdvisor for other travellers' opinions before you part with any cash.

Book your travel extras as early as possible

It pays to always book extras like airport parking and hotels, travel insurance, and car hire in advance. Never, ever, wait until you arrive at the airport car park to pay for your holiday parking - you will always save on the gate rate by booking before you travel.

Buy a prepaid currency card

Currency cards such as Caxtons offer a competitive exchange rate, and do not charge for transactions or withdrawals when you're overseas. They're also really useful for helping you keep control of your holiday budget.

Find the most competitive credit card

Look for credit cards that won't add transaction fees, such as Halifax's Clarity card and the Post Office's Platinum card. Don't pay in sterling on a card when you're on holiday - you'll be charged a few pounds for the exchange every time you do this. Lots of modern banks, such as Monzo will give you the complete freedom to use your card abroad. Go to MoneySavingExpert.com for everything you need to know about using credit cards abroad.

Buy city attraction and travel passes

In many popular destinations you can buy attraction and travel passes that will save you more and help you holiday on a budget. A great first stop when you visit a new place is the tourist informatin centre - they'll usually have passes on sale. Or you can pre-buy your pass online before you go and save even more.

Venture off the well-worn tourist trail

Everyday necessities, eating out and sight-seeing will be cheaper - and often more authentic - once you leave the hordes behind. Instead of heading to a restaurant every day, try some street food or go the local supermarket and buy provisions for a picnic or home-cooked meal.

Look for free activities

Tricky to find in fiercely touristy locations, but in many places you will be able to find a free festival in a village square or an exhibition with no charge. And wherever you are, an invigorating hike, amble through town, or stroll along the beach will cost you nothing.

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