With all this doom and gloom about credit crunches and market meltdowns, a relaxing get-away may feel like it’s become more appealing and less accessible all in one go. But tightening the purse strings doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your holiday.
At responsibletravel.com we know you can’t underestimate the benefits of a fantastic holiday and we also know that travelling on a budget is easy with a bit of thought and can be great fun into the bargain...not to mention responsible!
So, we’ve put together our top tips for getting the best value out of your holiday without sacrificing on comfort or enjoyment. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing escape or a new adventure we can help you find the perfect break to lift the spirits and beat the crunch!
Book early:
Planning ahead means not only do you have time to research the best holidays but also bag yourself the best bargains. Booking flights and train tickets early will save you a packet, and in fact some companies will concentrate on a smaller number of holidays they run so finding availability for your dream trip will get harder the later you leave it.
Go off-season:
Another great way to save on your holiday is by travelling outside of the peak seasons. Accommodation owners are always keen to welcome guests during their less busy periods and you may find you have an even more unique and personalised experience. Even avoiding weekends can be a good way to save. Plus in popular destinations you’ll usually feel less rushed and have more time to get to know a place when you shy away from the tourist hordes of the high season.
Travel closer to home:
Hopping on a plane and flying half way across the world is a modern luxury and one that we are all too aware has its consequences. While this can be a real adventure, the ease of travel to far-off lands may mean we are missing some unique and wonderful experiences much closer to home. Taking your holiday in the UK may turn out to be exactly the refreshing break you are looking for and with so many fantastic UK holidays and accommodations you are sure to find your perfect get-away at a refreshing price too!
Travelling by train to our European neighbours is an adventure in itself and avoids all the hassle of flying, not to mention the carbon footprint. It can also be light on your budget and yet will still transport you to some fantastic locations and amazing holidays.
Choose a small group adventure:
Small group adventures can be truly fantastic value. Your tour leader will have booked you as a group, for example, for your accommodation, and those group discounts are ultimately passed on to you. Your guide will also have all the local knowledge when it comes to haggling in the markets.
Finally the price you pay often includes meals and accommodation, and if there are extra costs the leaders are clear about this up front, so you won’t be stung by this later down the line. Of course travelling with the experts means you will be getting off the beaten track, experiencing the local culture, seeing the best sights and meeting the locals.
Research alternative destinations:
Visiting somewhere less populated by tourism has many advantages for you and the local people and you are much less likely to be subject to bumped up tourist prices. By travelling to less visited countries responsibly you are helping to boost local economies and promote responsible tourism in the areas you visit and you're bound to have a unique experience at the same time as saving those all important pennies.
So good news all round. With a little extra savviness when booking your next trip you can still have a responsible holiday - not just in terms of benefits to the environment and local communities but by being kind to your bank balance as well!
Take a look at our great range of budget holidays, small group adventures and UK holidays
