Do your research
- If you're looking to save money when planning a family holiday make sure you research your options.
- Choose a destination that doesn't have a big impact on your budget's bottom line.
- Most of the time, the further you want to go the more it'll cost. Why not explore close to home?
- If you're planning to go overseas, it'd be wise to pick a location with a good exchange rate. Or a spot where there are stacks of free activities to do.
- Be flexible with the length of time you stay away. Escaping for a weekend can be just as good as taking an entire month off if you make it fun and exciting.
Travel at cheaper times
- Whether you're organising an Australian Getaway or overseas holidays you can save money by travelling at off-peak times.
- Check the school holidays calendar to find the best time to travel. School holidays tend to coincide with high travel periods but with a bit of planning you may still find a bargain! Travelling in the "shoulder season" (the period immediately before and after peak times such as the school holidays) can save you a dollar or two.
- Families can reap big savings on flights and accommodation by travelling in off-peak periods, which is well outside the school holiday periods.
Tips to save money on flights
- When flying with a family opt for a discount airline to save money.
- Book your plane tickets online rather than using a travel agent.
- Another simple savings measure is to book your seats well in advance because as your holiday draws closer, cheaper departure dates and times may no longer be available.
- You can also save money by flying mid-week (on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday) rather than on the weekend which is the most popular time to travel.
- Flights that depart early in the morning or late at night on those days are often the cheapest.
If you need a place to stay too, you may save money by getting a package deal which includes airfares and accommodation.
Money-saving accommodation tips
- On-line accommodation websites offer last minute discount deals for hotel rooms all over the world.
- Rather than staying in a hotel, save money by renting a fully-equipped holiday home or an apartment at your destination - especially for longer holidays.
- They offer weekly rates and in some cases the longer you stay the more money you'll shave off the rate.
- It also means you can cook your own meals instead of eating out all the time and wash your own clothes rather than spending money (and time) at a laundromat!
- Better still, arrange to house-sit or house-swap at your holiday destination and your accommodation could be free!
