Saving Money on Your Summer Holiday: 11 Essential Tips

With schools in Wales breaking up for the summer holidays, many families are looking forward to a well-deserved break. However, the cost of a summer holiday can be daunting, especially for those on a tight budget. But fear not, we’ve got you covered with 11 essential money-saving tips to help you make the most of your summer holiday without breaking the bank.

Holidaying Abroad

Check Your Passport

Before you jet off, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date and is less than 10 years old. You can check MSE’s passport rules & renewals guide for more information.

Check your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date

Pack a Valid EHIC/GHIC

If you’re heading to Europe, don’t forget to pack a valid EHIC/GHIC card for all the family. These cards give you access to state-run hospitals or GPs in EU countries for the same price as a local. With over 4.3 million EHICs becoming invalid this year, make sure to check yours and apply for a free GHIC if it’s set to expire.

Try the ‘Rebook Trick’

Keep an eye on cheap hotel comparison sites and car hire comparisons. If the price of your booking drops, you can rebook for less and then cancel the original booking. One MSE reader saved nearly £1,000 on his family trip to Disney in Florida using this trick!

Save money on your summer holiday with the rebook trick

Book Airport Parking in Advance

Booking your airport parking in advance can save you a pretty penny. For example, parking at Stansted Airport without booking can cost up to £315 per week, but booking ahead can cost as little as £89 per week.

Use Local Currency

When using your card abroad, always pay in the local currency to avoid conversion fees. Your wallet (and the locals) will thank you.

Be Aware of Hidden Roaming Charges

Several major networks now charge around £2 per day to use your phone and data package in the EU, so make sure to check your provider’s roaming charges before you head off.

Holidaying in the UK

Local Authority Support

In Wales, you may be eligible for money or vouchers towards your food costs. Check with your local council to see if you’re eligible for free school meals or other forms of support.

Grab a ‘Free’ National Trust Family Day Pass

Pick up a physical copy of the Western Mail, South Wales Echo, or South Wales Evening Post by Sunday, July 21, and you’ll find a free National Trust family pass printed as a voucher within the papers. This pass is usually worth around £30.

Get a free National Trust family pass

‘Free’ West End Show

When an adult pays, a child aged 17 or below can go free to over 50 West End shows, including Wicked, Mrs Doubtfire, and Shrek.

Find Cheap UK Hotels

MSE has a list of 22 cheap UK hotel tips to help you find the best deals.

Cheap Kids and Grown-Ups Cinema Tickets

Cinemas are offering special family-friendly screenings over the school holidays, including recent releases like Kung Fu Panda 4. Tickets cost around £2.50, so grab some popcorn and enjoy the show.

Enjoy cheap cinema tickets this summer