Keeping costs down when going away

Keeping costs down when going away Stealing a week away from work is a great opportunity to take a break and spend time with the family. Particularly in the midst of a recession, many of us are put off the idea by the thought of what it will cost us. Fortunately, there are a number of things within our control which can go a long way to reducing the cost of getting away for that well deserved holiday. Securing a cheap flight Travelling can often be the most costly part of a holiday. Fortunately, the success of a number of budget airlines means that it is now possible to fly into a wealth of exotic regions at a fraction of the cost of a traditional fare. For the best deals, check in with your local airport to see which routes are available.

If you can fly from Exeter airport, you may find that the money saved on the travel to London comes in handy at the other end. If possible, travel outside of school holidays. Not only is this likely to save you a good deal of money but you'll find that your destination is less crowded. You should also use reputable sites such as Flybe to look for the latest deals. These will be available on numerous flights, helping you connect to your chosen destination without spending a fortune.

Booking accommodation Getting a good deal on your accommodation is absolutely key to keeping your holiday affordable. The best way to get more for less when it comes to accommodation is to go large. If you can travel in a large group and share the cost of a large villa, the savings will be huge. As with your flights, you will find that the price of accommodation will fluctuate throughout the year. School holidays will be the most costly times to travel and the cooler months tend to bring on a number of great savings as well. Consider going all inclusive An all-inclusive holiday can save you a vast amount of money but only if you are happy to stay within your accommodation for a considerable amount of the holiday. While it can be extremely cost-effective for some, others consider it to be a little restrictive, making eating and drinking out seem like an extravagance. Plan your finances ahead If you're travelling abroad, you'll need to consider how and where you exchange your money for the local currency. Waiting until the last minute and buying currency at Norwich airport or even at your final destination will guarantee a worse rate than you would find elsewhere.

It is always worth speaking to your bank well before you leave. Some accounts will incur serious charges when used abroad. The last thing you want is to learn this on the day you arrive home, having racked up a number of charges. Check your insurance When things go wrong on holiday, it can become expensive in no time. On top of the worries of lost luggage and cancelled flights, the thought of having to use private healthcare in an emergency is not a pretty one. Ensure that your policy covers the costs of healthcare when you are away and you really could be dodging an expensive bullet.