Save on 2009 Holiday Expenses

The current gloomy economic climate is prompting many to rethink their summer holiday plans. Instead of hopping over to Spain or Portugal many are choosing cheaper, local options or staying at home on a 'staycation'.

But with a little forethought and planning there are savings to be had that can still make it financially viable to head off to sunnier climes.

Booking Early and Booking Late
Its interesting to note that there are advantages to both approaches to booking your holiday. Booking early can give you a significant discount but booking late can mean that you get one of those fantastic last minute bargains. If you are flexible over your destination then the late booking option is likely to give you some serious savings.

Airport Parking Charges
If you are planning to leave your car at the airport be sure to compare airport parking prices and book in advance for savings of up to around 60% on the normal airport parking costs.

For example, 1 week's Bristol airport parking will currently cost you about £35.99 if prebooked. If you turned up to the car park today without pre-booking you could be paying in excess of £60. The same goes for all airports. East Midlands airport parking is currently quoted at £39.95 for 1 week if prebooked, but will set you back over £70 if you just turned up without booking.

Use a Local Airport
It is worth investigating exactly where you can fly to from your nearest airport. Minimising the distance you have to travel to and from the airport can provide some useful savings. Also, if you are flexible, you might like to find out about late availability flights from your local airport and leave the destination to chance.

Travel Insurance
Like all forms of insurance they are a financial nuisance until you need to make a claim. The one insurance that you must have is travel insurance. It is vitally important that you are adequately covered so that, if you have some form of accident, you will receive the medical attention you need.

Shop around as there are some outstanding deals available. For example, if you prebook a service with gosimply.com you are immediately eligible for a 10% discount on travel insurance.
Currency
If you can it is always worth shopping around for the best exchange rate you can get before you go. The rates available to you at the airport are rarely the best and the commissions can be high. Try to find a money exchange that is free of commission.

A few other tips that may help you chip away a few valuable pound from the expense of taking a holiday include: Take your own food and drink to the airport to save buying expensive refreshments; Buy sunscreen and insect repellent when you get to your destination as it is likely to be cheaper; If you are planning to visit any special tourist attractions or theme parks try to book in advance before you leave; If you are going to require a hire car when on holiday again it is worth booking in advance.

Hopefully these suggestions will help you to budget for your holiday and save a few pounds.