Top Tips for UK Travel on a Budget
Travelling is a wonderful way to see the world, explore new places and immerse yourself in a different culture. However, it can be expensive, particularly if you are a frequent traveller or you’re with the whole family. Luckily, there are many ways in which you can cut costs and stick to your budget without compromising your travel adventures.
We just spent the Summer in the UK and we had a great time, but we definitely did find it expensive, despite staying with family!
Here are some top tips and ideas to help you make your money stretch further and ensure you have a memorable trip for all the right reasons! Perfect for a trip to the UK, or even for a staycation if you’re already living there!
Be Flexible
It’s often possible to get much better deals by shopping around and experimenting with different dates and travel options. Whether it’s flights, accommodation or tourist attractions, you never know what deals you might uncover until you look. Of course most people don’t have HUGE amounts of flexibility in their travel dates, but you’ll be surprised how much travelling one day earlier or later can make in your costs!
Accommodation
Five-star hotels are without doubt the dream. Lets reality check though, the chances are that they will be out of your budget. Instead, make sure to do plenty of research and shop around. As I’ve said before, deals can be found all over the place! So, always make sure you are happy with your choice and price before booking anything.
Similarly, it may be a good idea to consider alternative accommodation options to your traditional hotel. There are B&Bs all over the country, camping is always a cheap option, and cheap caravan holidays don’t have to mean giving up all your favourite home comforts. Plus, an alternative method of accommodation could be a great way to pique the kids’ interest in your trip!
Transport
Taxis are appealing, but public transport is far cheaper and often a more efficient way to travel in the UK. For instance, if you are visiting London or staying in the capital, the public transport networks including the Underground and London buses are fantastic. Seriously, you don’t need car hire in London!
Conversely, if you are planning to do a tour of the country or will be visiting multiple places, a hire car could be a great way to save money on train or taxi fares while giving you the freedom to explore where you want, when you want. Outside of London rail costs are often hire than hiring a car!
Eating Out
Takeout coffees, delicious brunches, late lunches and hearty dinners. There are countless amazing places to eat and drink in the UK. Before you know it, your food costs can really begin to rack up. If you are in self-catering accommodation during your trip to the UK, cut costs by eating in, at least some of the time!
When you’re eating out opt for more budget-friendly restaurants – especially if you are travelling with a large party. Again, think ahead and look online for places doing discounts and offers.
Attractions
This will entirely depend on what you’re planning, but there are always ways for the budget-savvy traveller to cut costs. Again, make sure to research before you travel. That way you can budget for the costs, such as entry fees. Many big attractions have huge offers year round so look online for discount codes or where to get coupons.
There are endless of opportunities to get out and explore the great British countryside for free – who says you can’t experience the UK on a budget?
Obviously, not all of these ideas will work for everyone. But I hope that they at least give you a little inspiration on how small changes can give you big savings! UK travel on a budget is definitely possible, even with a family!
Planning a trip is one of the most exciting parts of the whole adventure, so make the most of it and get ready for the getaway of a lifetime!