10 ways to SHAVE THOU$ANDS OFF YOUR HOLIDAY
READ THIS BEFORE YOU HEAD OFF ON A LONG-AWAITED ESCAPE
If you’re looking to book a holiday either here or abroad, you may have noticed prices are up. As COVID restrictions ease, a quick look online shows costs for airline tickets, rental cars and travel insurance are on the increase. Add the price of petrol into the equation and the budget can be blown. Try these tips on ways to save when planning that trip away.
STUDY FARES BEFORE BOOKING
A recent finder.com.au analysis revealed domestic flights are significantly more expensive than they were pre-pandemic, with some routes rising as much as 112 per cent. It’s more important than ever to research prices before you book. Be sure to sign up to competing airlines email alerts. Qantas (qantas.com) has a Fare Watch alert for every time a fare drops on a flight route you’re interested in, and Virgin Australia (virginaustralia. com) has a Happy Hour sale every Thursday between 4-11pm AEDT.
LOOK AT ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS
Dreaming of a Byron Bay escape or maybe a visit to the Margaret River wine region? Consider opting for a less popular or an up-and-coming destination. Perhaps it’s an inland farmstay rather than a seaside escape, or a staycation in your own city instead of a flight to another city.
DIVE DEEP INTO CRUISE SPECIALS
Now cruising has restarted in Australian waters there will be incredible deals to take advantage of. Whether you want a small ship expedition cruise, or a ship with fabulous restaurants and activities galore, there’s something to appeal to everyone. Plus, cruise lines often add extras such as free beverage packages, specialty dining packages and onboard credit. Sign up to emails across different cruise brands to see the deals, or speak with your travel agent.
ADD IN THE KITCHEN SINK
Planning a city escape or perhaps a long weekend getaway to the country? Consider booking apartment-style accommodation or using websites such as airbnb.com or stayz.com.au instead of hotels. These properties have kitchens, meaning you don’t have to blow the budget by dining out for every meal. Those $25-per-dish breakfasts can really add up.
PUT POINTS TO USE
There’s a good chance you may have accumulated frequent flyer points from credit card purchases and now is the time to put them to good use. Still need a few more to book that dream holiday? See if your frequent flyer provider is offering free points when you refer a friend. Sometimes you can earn up to 50,000!
CONSIDER AFFILIATE PARTNERS
Look up your frequent flyer hotel and car rental partners and consider booking with them. They might be offering a good partner deal and the bonus is you’ll get a stack of points as well.
BORROW, DON’T BUY
Sure, it can be fun shopping for camping gear, big winter coats or
a whole ski ensemble, but think about how many times they will be used. There’s a good chance friends or family have gear, and are happy for you to put it to good use. Always ask first before you buy. Just be sure to bring them back a thank you present from your travels. CHECK YOUR MOBILE PLAN
Not turning off your mobile data when overseas can be a huge expense. Before you head off, check to see if your plan includes international data for the country you are in and if not, take advantage of wi-fi hotspots to stay in touch with family at home and update your socials.
RETHINK THE CAR RENTAL
We all know the price of petrol is up, and anyone travelling within Australia may have also noticed the low availability of rental cars. This spells higher prices all round. Consider thoroughly investigating public transport before you book your accommodation. Even better, choose somewhere within walking distance of all the attractions and restaurants.
DON’T TOUCH THE MINI BAR
Yes, all those tempting treats are within arm’s length in your hotel room, but you’ll regret it when the final bill comes through. Stock up at the supermarket to save a huge holiday blowout.