With the poorer exchange rate of the pound against many foreign currencies, including the Euro, many holiday makers are looking for ways to cut unnecessary costs. Here are a few tips to help save some money.
Airlines
It is now widely known that some budget airlines offer flights for as little as 1p which sounds great. But, beware, after they add on taxes and extra charges you will end up paying a lot more than you might have bargained for. Ryanair is one of the main culprits, with charges of £5 to check in online, £3 for priority boarding, £10 to check a suitcase, £5 each way to use a debit or credit card. Avoid extra charges by staying clear of so-called budget airlines and use one who are upfront about the total cost. If you have to use a budget airline make sure you are fully aware of all their `extras.`
Debit and credit cards
The majority of credit and debit card providers charge customers extra for using cards overseas. This means a cash withdrawal could incur a 2% ATM fee often with a minimum plus a 2.75% transaction fee, meaning 10 withdrawals of €50 each would cost an extra £31.75 in fees. If you really must use a card abroad look for a provider offering one with no charges when using it outside of the UK.
Mobile phones
Texts and calls are not usually covered by the inclusive minutes you get with a monthly contract and are charged at higher `roaming rates`. Some companies charge more than 40p per minute if you make a call in Europe. Solution – Use your phone as little as possible, you are supposed to be on holiday.
Airport parking
Parking your car at an airport when you fly can vary from £25 for a week right up to £90 for a meet and greet service. If you have to park your car at the airport book your parking in advance and you`ll pay less. Can you take the train or bus? Not as convenient as taking your own car, but likely a lot cheaper. Ideally get a friend or relative to drive you to the airport. You can always return the favour when they go on holiday.
Car hire
Make sure you know all the charges before you sign up for car hire. When you get to your destination airport you will be asked to take out all sorts of additional insurance which can rack up the costs. And, if possible, designate one driver aged over 25 so as to avoid incurring additional charges and excesses.
School holidays
Taking kids can add around as much as 35-40% to the cost if you go abroad or even stay in the UK outside of term time. If at all possible take the kids out of school for your holiday. It will save you money, though you do have to get the school to agree first.
Dynamic currency conversion
Always opt to pay in the local currency when using a card to make a purchase abroad.
Credit card surcharges
A lot of holiday firms charge more when you book using a credit card. Consider using a debit card instead when booking a flight, tour or package holiday. It has to be remembered though that using a credit card does usually give you added protection in case of failure of the holiday company, or airline.
Phones from hotel rooms
If you make calls from the phone in your hotel room or take items from the mini bar you will often pay dearly for the privilege. Use a prepaid phone card to call home if using your mobile is too expensive.
Also, it is cheaper to stock up on drinks from the local supermarket rather than being tempted by food and drink from the mini bar.