Planning a family holiday can feel overwhelming, especially when balancing budgets and creating lasting memories. With a bit of planning and research, though, finding great deals for family getaways in 2025 is easier than you might think. Here are tips for savvy UK families to get the best bargains.
Timing is the golden rule of holiday booking. Booking early can lock in lower rates, especially for popular destinations. Airlines, tour operators, and hotels often release their best prices months in advance. If your family’s schedule allows, be flexible with travel dates. Last-minute deals can offer big savings, particularly if you’re open to different destinations. Keep an eye on school holiday dates and plan trips just before or after peak times.
Traveling abroad during the Easter holidays is often cheaper than other school breaks, and dates vary by country, which can affect prices.
Take advantage of comparison sites like Skyscanner, Expedia, and Kayak to find the best prices on flights and accommodation. Many sites let you set price alerts to be notified when prices drop.
For package holidays, sites like TUI, Jet2Holidays, and TravelSupermarket are invaluable. They let you compare packages side by side and spot the most cost-effective options.
Travel companies often share exclusive deals through their newsletters. Sign up for emails from airlines, travel agents, and holiday parks to get early access to sales and discount codes. Following your favourite travel providers on social media can also help you spot flash sales and promotions.
Consider budget-friendly alternatives to traditional hotels, such as holiday rentals on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. For larger families, these can offer more space and facilities like kitchens, which can cut dining-out costs.
Holiday parks, such as Haven or Center Parcs, can also offer great deals, especially if you book during off-peak times. These parks often include entertainment and activities, saving you money on extras.
If you regularly use credit cards or loyalty schemes, now is a good time to redeem those points. Programs such as Avios, Nectar, or Tesco Clubcard can provide travel discounts. Cashback sites like Quidco or TopCashback can help you save on bookings when you access travel sites through them.
Staycations continue to grow in popularity, and the UK offers many family-friendly destinations. From Cornwall’s beaches to the Lake District’s scenery, there’s plenty to explore closer to home.
Booking directly with UK holiday parks, B&Bs, or cottages can sometimes be cheaper than using third-party platforms. Look for family discounts or special offers.
Avoiding peak travel dates can significantly cut costs. If that’s not possible, consider shorter breaks during term time or using inset days to take long weekends.
If you’re tied to school schedules, try shorter breaks just after the new school year starts in September or during the October half-term.
Deciding between a package holiday and arranging your own flights and accommodation can affect costs. For popular destinations, packages often include flights and hotels and can be cheaper. But for more unique destinations or if you want more flexibility, booking independently can save money. Tools like Google Flights and Booking.com can help tailor a trip to your preferences.
For international trips, exchange rates can have a big impact on total costs. Monitor rates and consider pre-loading a travel card when rates are favourable to lock in a good deal.
Lastly, don’t forget travel insurance when budgeting for your holiday. Buying it early can save money and protect you if plans change. Compare policies to find one that offers solid coverage for your family.
With these tips, your family can enjoy an unforgettable holiday without breaking the bank. Happy planning!
