30% of Brits are planning to stay in the UK for their holidays this summer, according to research by Asda Money. But the prices to holiday in some UK destinations and resorts are not far off their foreign counterparts. With spending money requirements pretty similar too, how can you make sure a staycation really does work out to be better value for money?
Book in advance or split your train tickets to travel more cheaply
If you’re travelling by train during your staycation, booking your train tickets in advance is the best way to make sure you’re getting the cheapest fares. You can usually start buying tickets at least 12 weeks before your travel date. They gradually get more expensive the closer it gets to that date, so the earlier you book, the cheaper it is! Don’t rule out first class tickets either. There are odd occasions where a first class ticket is cheaper than standard!
Splitting your tickets, either by buying single tickets instead of a return, or by buying different tickets for different parts of your journey, can work out a lot cheaper too. Be careful if you’re buying tickets for specific trains as they may not be valid on others and you’ll have to pay again. This defeats the point of trying to save some money on your travel!
Book attractions in advance to save on the entry cost
There are loads of amazing places in the UK that are free to visit, from parks to museums to castles, but if you want to visit a particular attraction that charges for entry, booking tickets in advance can save you a significant portion of the ticket price vs. paying for your entry on the day. It can be difficult to commit to advance plans with our changeable British weather, but if you’re planning to head to an indoor attraction, or the risk of getting a bit wet is one you’re prepared to take and won’t spoil your fun, taking advantage of advance booking discounts can be extremely worthwhile.
Memberships and passes can save you money
Signing up to a membership or subscription that offers entry to multiple attractions can seem like an expensive commitment and you may decide it’s not right for you. But, they can be extremely good value for money. If you’re heading down to the capital this summer, for example, a London Pass can be bought for one to more than 10 days and covers entry to over 60 attractions. When you consider that each attraction individually can cost more than £20 per person, the more attractions you visit during your trip, the better value the pass becomes!
Cash in loyalty schemes and vouchers to save on the cost of a day out
Loyalty schemes like Tesco Clubcard and Nectar offer opportunities for you to cash in your points and vouchers for discounts at leading UK attractions, restaurants, and more! Many household brands also run promotions in partnership with attractions. Kellogg’s have a regular partnership with Merlin attractions – the company responsible for Alton Towers and Legoland among others. They offer cheaper entry for family days out, so collect up your vouchers and see what you can save!
Free and cheap ways to discover your area
Of course, having fun on a staycation doesn’t have to be all about day trips out and visiting lots of attractions.
Days spent on the beach or at a local park playing ball games and having a picnic can be a wonderful low-cost way to enjoy some rare British sunshine and have a great day out with friends and family.
If you fancy exploring, why not buy a treasure hunt kit to learn about the place you’re visiting, or rediscover your local area? At very reasonable prices and suitable for all ages, they’re a great way to spend a few hours. Or, for an even cheaper option, why not try Geocaching, or turn your exploration into a Pokemon hunt with global phenomenon Pokemon Go? All you need is a smartphone, and you’re set!
However you’re spending your summer this year, it doesn’t have to cost the earth. Heading abroad? Check out part one of our money saving holiday hacks. For more ways to save money in your every day life, check out all of our Budget Living articles!
Will you be going on a staycation this year? Let us know your money saving tips in the comments!
