Cash smart

Our consumer lifestyle team are here to make your money go further

There’s nothing like choosing a sunny getaway to lift the January blues, but you don’t need to break the bank!

1.Cheapest flights

Don’t assume budget airlines offer the best prices, always shop around. Try websites like momondo. co.uk and kayak.co.uk, which show the cheapest deals from different airlines on the route you want. Also, if you’re happy to spend longer getting there, then consider taking an indirect flight.

2. Haggle

If you’ve found your perfect package holiday, and have done your research to make sure it’s the cheapest deal, see if you can get more money knocked off. Contact the travel company directly and start negotiating. Even if they can’t reduce the price any further, they may throw in extras like free kids’ meals.

3. Add it all up

Be savvy about your board basis. Work out how much it costs per meal per day if you book B&B, halfboard or full-board – then assess if you’re likely to spend more if you book room only and pay for meals at the hotel as you take them. Finding menus with prices on from the hotel can help you decide.