With exchanges rates as they are, and the economy bad, and lots of other boring stuff that you probably don’t really care about, holidays have arguably gotten more expensive lately.

So if you’re a keen tourist, how can you holiday for less this year? Here are a few tips:

Book early
If you have the ability to plan ahead by a few months you can grab some good deals. Demand is lower a long way in advance, so the organised among us can save some cash.

Book late
If you don’t have the organisational skills to book ahead, but you do have the flexibility not to, you can often get really good deals at the last second.

Use a currency converter
Spending money is a big part of the expense of a holiday, so getting the best exchange rate possible will help to save you money. Check out a good currency conversion rate site and find out what rates to expect.

Online packages
Don’t rule out package holidays if you want a simple beach holiday. Package holiday companies have to add on their own margin, but they also have big buying power, so their costs will be cheaper too.

DIY
If you want to go somewhere a little more exotic then package deals might not be as good an option, so look at doing it yourself. It can be very exciting, if a little nerve wracking, to plan the flights, transfers and any hotels all by yourself.

Stay in your own country
Some of the best holiday parks here in the UK can make wonderful settings for an exciting holiday. Whatever country you live in, don’t forget about the natural beauty there is to be found right on your doorstep.

Homestays
There are opportunities all over the world to stay in other peoples homes for very cheap or even for free. This can be a big money saver and a wonderful opportunity to expose yourself to the local culture.

Haggle by email
If you are booking hotels yourself, it is entirely possible to get a better price with a little haggling, especially if it’s at the last minute. Email your potential hosts and see what you can agree to.

Go somewhere cheap
This is a no-brainer; there are certain countries where your money will go multiple times further. The cost of getting there might be higher depending on where you live, but that’s just a good reason to spend longer out there!

Overland travel
Travelling over land is almost always cheaper and more enviromentally friendly and is a great way to see more of the country you are visiting. Plus a night on the coach is a night less spent in a hotel.

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