Going on holiday is something many people do just once a year. It’s a time to have some time off from work, get away from it all and have fun with your family and friends. But planning it can be a bit of a headache if you don’t do it properly, and can cost you loads more money than it should! Here’s a guide to making your holiday prep as stress-free as possible.
Avoid last-minute
While occasionally you can find some bargain trips if you leave it to the last minute, it’s best not to chance it when booking the main family trip of the year. If you’ve got kids, the chances are that you’re going to be going away in peak season, when flights and hotels are at their most expensive. So, when you can, book in advance as much as possible. You should know when the children are off from school and if you and your partner have time off too, then you already know the dates you can go away.
Booking months in advance can help you secure some of the best deals and get the best pick of flight times and accommodation. Going last minute could mean that you miss out on the destination you’d been hoping for, or you end up paying a lot more than you wanted.
Choose somewhere for all tastes
You may have a desire to spend three days exploring a big city, or a week walking in the mountains, but how about what the rest of your group want? If you’re travelling with your family, you should be picking a destination that has something for everyone. So, if you’re heading to a city, check out what activities are available for the younger ones.
If you’re travelling with a group of friends, it’s a similar situation. Have a good chat altogether about the kind of things everyone wants to get from their break away and come to some compromises. It should help avoid arguments when you’re away!
For holidays with family or friends, there are loads of apps and guides online for you to get some inspiration about what to see and do, to help you come up with a plan.
If you’re planning an educational trip, then you’ll be amazed at how many experiences organisations like WorldStrides have on offer. Check out this infographic on the best school trips. Perfect for those not looking for educational travel, too!
Get a good sleep
Getting the right accommodation for your holiday is going to be a big part of how much you enjoy your time away. Depending on how much money you have, check out all the options. If you normally stay in a hotel, why not rent a house or apartment this time around? They can be great for families and groups, with a range of options available, both in city and coastal locations. If you’re looking for some ideas, have a look at VacationRenter.
Set a budget
To get the best holiday for you, make sure it’s affordable. Set yourself a budget for the travel and accommodation and some money to spend while you’re away. The worst thing you can do is splash it all on a hotel and flights and then have very little in your pocket when you’re at the destination.