Family Holidays on a Budget

Family holidays are expensive because they usually have to happen in the school holidays. You cannot always avoid that, but you can still save a lot.

Book early for school holidays

For summer, Easter and half-term, the cheapest prices are usually when bookings open. Many tour operators ask for a small deposit, so you can lock in the price and pay the rest later.

Use the start and end of the holidays

Flying out on the first Saturday or back on the last day of the holidays is usually the most expensive. Moving your dates by even one or two days inside the holiday can save money.

Choose good value places

• Turkey, Bulgaria and Egypt are often cheaper for all-inclusive family holidays.
• Spain and Portugal have good apartments with pools, which can be cheaper for bigger families.
• Look for hotels with "kids stay free" or "kids eat free" offers.

All-inclusive or self-catering?

With children who eat and drink a lot, all-inclusive can be cheaper and less stressful. If your family prefers to explore, an apartment with a kitchen and a supermarket nearby can cost less.

Save on the extras

• Pack snacks and empty water bottles for the airport and the flight.
• Book airport parking and transfers early online.
• Take a small first aid kit, sun cream and medicines from home. They can cost much more in resort shops.
• Check that every child has a valid passport. Children's passports last only 5 years.

Information was checked when this page was updated. Prices, airline rules and travel rules change, so always check before you book.

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