6 tips to save money when you're on holiday
After years of lockdowns and COVID restrictions, many of us are heading off on a long-awaited, holiday either within Australia or overseas. And for good reason - after all, we all need to take a break from our daily lives sometimes. Even a quick weekend getaway is a great way to just break the monotony.
But whether it’s a short or a longer break, these things have a way of helping our hard-earned money to disappear – and not just from the cost of your fares and accommodation expenses. It’s the things you do while at your holiday destination that can bite you in the back pocket, such as eating out, paying for trips to local attractions, and taking Uber everywhere you go.
So with that in mind, here are some tips to save money and keep your bank account in check while you’re on holiday.
1. Buy your plane tickets in advance
No matter where you’re flying to, you’ll save money if you buy your plane tickets much earlier than your flight date. Leaving this until close to your flight date will usually cost you a lot more. If you subscribe to airline newsletters, you’ll get advance warning of flight sales, and that’s the best time to book as you’ll get cheap fares. Peak season and school holidays always cost more than other times, so if you need to travel during the holidays, it’s doubly important that you book early (we recommend at least 6 months in advance). If you can be flexible with your travel dates that’s even better, as you’ll often find that if you leave or return a few days either side of your chosen date, you’ll be able to find a better deal.
2. Find accommodation with a kitchen
Sure, we all like to eat out when we’re on holiday, but if you have a kitchen you’ll be able to save loads of money by staying in for breakfast, lunch, and the occasional dinner. Most resorts these days have BBQ areas so it’s a good idea to plan at least a couple of nights where someone cooks on the barbie while someone else whips up a tasty salad with some crusty bread rolls to go with it. This way, you’ll save money but still be able to enjoy the odd night out sampling the local cuisine.
3. Pack light
Pack as light as possible to avoid paying for excess baggage. It can deal a bit of a blow to your finances if you have to pay extra before you even step on the plane because your baggage is overweight.
Bring easy foldable and thin fabric clothes, and if you’re heading somewhere cold, opt for light thermals. If you need to take a coat, carry it on to the plane with you and store it in the overhead locker, and make sure you wear your heaviest shoes. Travelling light in summer is relatively simple, but with a little forward planning you can cut down on baggage costs in winter too!
4. Getting around when you’re on holiday
It’s important to plan ahead when you’re heading off on holiday. Depending on your destination, it may make sense to pay for return airport transfers and then let your feet do most of the walking once you’re there. The cost of rental cars has skyrocketed since COVID hit, so if you simply can’t avoid it, make sure you book early and check for any discount or promo codes that may be available.
It's also a good idea to take a look online before you head away to see if there are any specials or promotions happening at your destination that you can take advantage of - and keep a look out for bundle deals that include bonus return trips to local tourist attractions. Another tip is to check out bike hire options, so you can get around easily and travel a bit further afield if you want to.
5. Eat and drink local
It’s great to sit back and enjoy your favourite tipple or two at the local bars when you’re enjoying a break, but this can really chew through your holiday cash. Our advice is to have a drink at your accommodation before you head out, so you won’t spend as much when you’re exploring the local night life. And on the subject of heading out, it makes sense to check out the little hideaway cafes and restaurants, where the food is local and fresh. but won’t cost you an arm and a leg to dine in.
6. Take advantage of inclusions
Our last piece of advice is to make sure you take advantage of any inclusions that are part of your holiday. If you’re staying at a resort that includes breakfast, eat towards the end of the breakfast sitting and load up so you won’t feel like eating anything else until late afternoon. If breakfast is buffet style, grab a muffin or a piece of fruit to eat later in the day.
Enjoy your holiday!
It’s truly exciting to get away and do something different. But with these money-saving tips, that well-deserved break won’t burn a hole in your budget. So don’t just dream about it - do it! If you need some extra funds to make that holiday happen, we’re here to help. Just take a look at our cash loans up to $5,000 to find out how quick and easy it is to get your hands on some extra funds. Once a loan is approved, the cash is usually in your bank account within a few hours – so you can enjoy your next holiday to the max!