The ongoing credit crunch has forced many of us to watch where we put our money and what we spend it on.
For many of us, with spiralling food prices and rising costs of bills, the last thing we can afford to think about is a holiday.
However, with an abundance of late deals available to destinations at home and abroad, you can still potentially have an enjoyable holiday on a budget.
If the thought of cheap holidays springs to mind images of dingy caravans and holiday parks full of screaming children, it might be worth shopping around – for you might be surprised by what’s on offer.
Travel agencies will offer a range of last minute bargain breaks around this time of year. If you can potentially avoid travelling during the school holiday period you can save yourself some time, money and hassle.
And it doesn’t have to be abroad either, for as much as we want to escape the dreary weather of the British Isles, there is still a wide variety of attractions tucked away in the most unlikely places – from theme parks to watersports centres to quaint little museums.
Here are a few handy hints for getting the most out of holidays on a shoestring:
- Don’t be picky about destinations – sure we’ve all got our favourite places to go, but taking the chance to go somewhere you’ve never been before (especially if there is a package holiday on special offer) can add that little bit of excitement to your trip.
- Stay local – if you’re unable to splash a bit of cash on a trip abroad, look into attractions in your local area, you may be surprised at what you find.
- Shop around - the internet is an excellent source for research material, but also check your local paper for upcoming events, you may find something you fancy attending.
- Be wary of your spending if you go abroad – half-board or all-inclusive holidays can save you money on food, but local restaurants will always try and tout you for business anyway.
- If you’re short on cash, make your apologies for not bringing gifts back in advance if you have to in order to avoid any unnecessary spats with ungrateful family and friends.
- Don’t discount the holiday camps – taking a short break during the off-season can be a nice way to relax without having to be surrounded by screaming kids.
- City breaks can be a nice way to get away for a short time, but you don’t have to look to Paris and other seemingly expensive cities – many budget airlines will now fly to destinations in the Balkan states, whose quaint little cities are becoming more popular with tourists.
With a bit of careful planning and by taking care not to splash out on souvenirs, holidaying on a budget can make for a surprisingly pleasant holiday experience.
Related Articles
Top 10 Beaches in Spain
By: Travel Guru | 14/01/2008 | Travel Tips
Read our essential guide and information on the top 10 beaches in Spain.
Enjoy A Beach Holiday To Cancun
By: Michael Hood | 18/03/2008 | Destinations
When you think about a beach holiday, consider going to Cancun. The white sandy beaches with the blue waters in the background are what make Cancun more stunning than any area around. If you think about it, Cancun is one big beach.
Holidays - Sun, Sea and Sport
By: David Collins | 15/04/2008 | Travel
For sports enthusiasts, packages that offer the chance to combine their sport with a holiday are very popular.
For some it can mean following a national team during an international tour, for others they provide the chance to partake in a favourite sport in a warm country.
Whether you’re looking to watch your team in a tournament, play sport yourself or just take a leisurely cycle ride around picturesque locations, sporting holidays could be for you.
As the Holidays Season Approaches Find Your Perfect Destination
By: Karl Bantleman | 20/05/2008 | Travel
It is that time of year again when people start planning their holidays. Whether you want an adventure holiday or a relaxing one, find it online.
Holidays to Lanzarote For Natural Attractions, Theme Parks and Castles
By: Jessica Nielson | 13/08/2008 | Travel
The natural attractions that you can see on Lanzarote include beaches, natural wonders and that many forests. The theme parks are also very enjoyable and it is very easy to spend an entire day enjoying all the water parks slides and everything else they have to offer. The castles are...
A Fun Vacation Need Not Be Expensive
By: Bill Tandy | 03/12/2006 | Travel
Cheap holidays are always available to customers. It does not matter what time of the year you are planning to travel, just so long as you book in advance then you are without a doubt going to save some money on your holiday.
Top 10 Beaches in Greece
By: Travel Guru | 14/01/2008 | Travel Tips
The ultimate guide to the best beaches in Greece. Read our essential top 10 beaches in Greece.
Enjoy A Beach Holiday To Cancun
By: Michael Hood | 18/03/2008 | Destinations
When you think about a beach holiday, consider going to Cancun. The white sandy beaches with the blue waters in the background are what make Cancun more stunning than any area around. If you think about it, Cancun is one big beach.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
What To Get a 13 Year Old Girl for Christmas When Her Tastes Seem to Have Changed Totally?
By: keebler1 | 28-11-2008
I usually have no problems coming up with Holiday presents for my daughter but now that she is 13, I have absolutely no idea what to get her for Christmas this year. In the past, she's liked add-a-pearls, snowglobes, bracelets, books, art supplies and one collectible Lladro but I don't think those are going to be big hits any longer. She doesn't wear bracelets and her clothes are very casual with rips in them--apparently the "style" at her school. She also says she hasn't painted in a long time. If you have any thoughts about what a teenager might like, please let me know. I'm struggling with this. Thank you! (I thought about gift cards but with so many stores going out of business, rethought this particular idea)
Holiday Economics
By: AOL News | 26-11-2008
Are you doing anything differently this holiday season because of the economic downturn? Share your story.
How to shop on Black Friday? I need some tips to ...
By: SofiaLee | 25-11-2008
How to shop on Black Friday? I need some tips to do it right.
Deaths caused by Black Friday Sales
By: Philly | 25-11-2008
I did hear of some stories before but I wonder if any of you have something interesting. Do you know of any deaths caused becasue of Black Friday sales?
Iwhat to say for Thanksgiving messages for your ...
By: Susan | 19-11-2008
iwhat to say for Thanksgiving messages for your guests on their placecards
Mosquito Deterrant ??
By: paddster16 | 18-11-2008
Does taking Vitamin B1 stop mosquitos biting!?
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Travel Tips Articles
Great Experiences and Great Holiday Specials in Darwin, Northern Territory
By: Guy Fitter | 01/12/2008
Darwin, Northern Territory, is a vibrant and attractive city with a unique selection of budget and exclusive accommodation with many things to do for the visitor such as attractions and tours
Visiting London From Abroad? the Best Way to See the Sights
By: Keith McGregor | 01/12/2008
If you are visiting the Capital City of England from abroad the most visited site is the River Thames. The Thames in London is a beautiful tidal waterway carving through the heart of the City. Some of the most stunning architecture and most well known buildings in the World are dotted along the banks at various points. Big Ben, the palace of Westminster, Tower of London, Canary Wharf and of course Tower Bridge are all right on the river.
Benefits From San Francisco Shuttle Tours
By: JishnuRaj | 01/12/2008
San Fran shuttle is a smaller but more intimate, very interactive, informative and fun group tour. This group takes us to more tour spots, includes bay cruise to Sausalito and free refreshment. This tour group doesn't use large motor coaches. Instead, they use shuttle bus which has easy on and off access. Only this group gets you very near to Lombard Street so that you can walk down.
Benefits From San Francisco Shuttle Tours
By: JishnuRaj | 01/12/2008
San Fran shuttle is a smaller but more intimate, very interactive, informative and fun group tour. This group takes us to more tour spots, includes bay cruise to Sausalito and free refreshment. This tour group doesn't use large motor coaches. Instead, they use shuttle bus which has easy on and off access. Only this group gets you very near to Lombard Street so that you can walk down.
White Water Rafting
By: SHIRE CHIN TRAVEL STATION | 30/11/2008
Rivers have long been the life blood of the indigenous people of Malaysia. They have served as a means of transport, a source of food and now, a resource for eco-tourism. The native groups of Sabah have been using rafts for centuries but white water rafting has only been a recreational activity since the 1980s.
The two main rivers for rafting in Sabah are the Padas and Kiulu rivers which are certified as Grade 3 and Grade 2 respectively in the international white water rafting grading system.
Driving a Vehicle Versus Public Transit: Which is Better?
By: Laura Zeimer | 30/11/2008
Statistics and tips on whether you should use public transportation or your own vehicle to reach your destination.
Cambodia Adventure Travel
By: Rom | 30/11/2008
Once you decided on taking this Cambodia adventure travel it is time to make yet another decision: do you mind travelling with other tourists or not? If you don't mind, your best bet is to try a travel agency who will assist you with your booking of the flights and hotels.
The travel agency will also be helpful with choosing the best tourist locations that will be sure to reveal as much of the Cambodian culture as well as Cambodian country sightseeing.
Why Biking to Work Saves Money on Travel and Gym Fees
By: Melanie Click | 30/11/2008
Exercise and savings at the same time!
More from David Collins
Don't be Insurance Ignorant
By: David Collins | 25/11/2008 | Insurance
Insurance plays a large part in our financial and personal wellbeing, offering some form of financial protection against situations when we might need some help in the event of accidents or disaster. However, according to a recent survey, almost a quarter of Brits are putting themselves at risk by choosing to avoid some insurance policies in order to save money.
Arranging Travel Insurance
By: David Collins | 25/11/2008 | Insurance
Everybody has their own idea of their perfect holiday. From relaxing on sunkissed beaches, exploring cities steeped in history or racing down the side of a mountain on a snowboard. When arranging the details of your holiday, it is advisable to ensure that you have little plans in place in case of accident or incident.
Flying After Surgery
By: David Collins | 25/11/2008 | Insurance
After an operation, you’re likely to be briefed about your limits with regards to travel. If your circumstances are such that you do need to travel by air after your operation, planning ahead is vital to ensure you have a safe and comfortable journey.
Boiler Replacement and Home Insurance
By: David Collins | 25/11/2008 | Insurance
One of the most common home improvement methods is boiler replacement, with many households choosing to upgrade to a more energy efficient combi-boiler system. Cover is available from many of the utilities companies, but it can be worth looking into whether you can add a similar sort of cover to your existing house insurance policy.
Dubrovnik - Jewel of the Adriatic
By: David Collins | 19/11/2008 | Destinations
The ancient city of Dubrovnik on the southern coast of Croatia is known by many as the Jewel of the Adriatic. A recognised UNESCO World Heritage site, the city and its many islands attract tourists looking to take in the beauty of the Balkan countryside and to explore a city steeped in history.
Christmas Markets
By: David Collins | 19/11/2008 | Travel
Christmas markets are a popular attraction in many cities around Europe, usually taking place during the period of advent, usually four weeks before Christmas, transforming city centres into bustling market towns filled with trinkets and tasty treats.
Holidaying in the Golden City
By: David Collins | 18/11/2008 | Destinations
The sixth most visited city in Europe, Prague has a variety of sights and nightlife to suit every taste. So whether you’re looking to explore the museums, gaze upon a rich mixture of architectural styles or simply sample the local food and drink, Prague has something to suit everybody.
Hot Hot! Holidays in Lanzarote
By: David Collins | 14/11/2008 | Travel
The island of Lanzarote lies in the eastern region of the Canary Islands, and is a popular destination for holidaymakers looking to escape to a sunny climate. Many tourist attractions around Lanzarote give you the chance to explore the surreal volcanic landscapes of the island.
Travel 
