Planning a family holiday can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to balance budgets and create lasting memories. However, with a little planning and research, finding great deals for family getaways in 2025 is easier than you might think. Here are some top tips for savvy UK families looking to secure the best holiday bargains.
Plan ahead or be flexible
The golden rule of holiday booking is timing. Booking early can help you secure discounted rates, especially for popular destinations. Airlines, tour operators, and hotels often release their best prices months in advance.
Alternatively, if your family’s schedule allows, consider being flexible with your travel dates. Last-minute deals can offer significant savings, particularly if you’re open to a variety of destinations. Keep an eye on school holiday dates and try to plan trips just before or after peak times.
We find travelling abroad in the Easter holidays is always a lot cheaper than other school holidays. Easter holiday dates for UK schools seems to differ with other Countries too, which may be a reason why travelling is cheaper.
Sonia, @mummyconstant
Use comparison websites
Take advantage of comparison websites like Skyscanner, Expedia, and Kayak to find the best prices on flights and accommodation. Many of these platforms allow you to set price alerts, which notify you when prices drop.
For package holidays, websites like TUI, Jet2Holidays, and TravelSupermarket are invaluable. They let you compare various packages side-by-side, helping you identify the most cost-effective options.
Sign up for newsletters
Travel companies often share exclusive deals through their newsletters. Signing up to mailing lists from airlines, travel agents, and holiday parks can give you early access to sales and discount codes.
Additionally, following your favourite travel providers on social media can be another way to spot flash sales and promotional offers.
Consider alternative accommodation
Instead of traditional hotels, explore budget-friendly options such as holiday rentals on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. For larger families, these can offer better value, with more space and facilities like kitchens to reduce dining-out costs.
Holiday parks, such as Haven or Center Parcs, also offer excellent deals, particularly if you book during off-peak times. These parks often include entertainment and activities, saving you money on extras.
Use loyalty points and cashback sites
If you regularly use credit cards or loyalty schemes, now is the time to cash in those points. Many programmes, such as Avios, Nectar, or Tesco Clubcard, allow you to redeem points for travel discounts.
Additionally, cashback sites like Quidco or TopCashback can help you save money on bookings. Simply access travel websites through these platforms to earn cashback on your purchases.
Explore local getaways
Staycations continue to grow in popularity, and the UK offers a wealth of family-friendly destinations. From the beaches of Cornwall to the Lake District’s stunning landscapes, there’s plenty to explore closer to home.
Booking directly with UK holiday parks, B&Bs, or cottages can sometimes secure a better rate than using third-party platforms. Don’t forget to ask about family discounts or special offers. We use cottages.com and hoseasons often.
Travel off-peak
Avoiding peak travel dates, such as school holidays, can significantly reduce costs. While this may not always be feasible, taking shorter breaks during term time (if permissible) can result in substantial savings. I find the inset days for my school in advance of the school year, so we can plan when taking a long weekend might be beneficial or what room we have to play with for school holidays etc.
If you’re tied to school schedules, consider shorter breaks just after the academic year starts in September or during the October half-term.
Package vs DIY holidays
Deciding between a package holiday or arranging your own flights and accommodation can affect costs. For popular destinations, package holidays often work out cheaper as they include flights, hotels, and sometimes transfers.
However, for more unique destinations or families seeking flexibility, booking independently can save money. Tools like Google Flights and Booking.com are great for tailoring a trip to your preferences.
Keep an eye on exchange rates
For international holidays, the exchange rate can have a significant impact on overall costs. Monitor exchange rates and consider pre-loading a travel card when rates are favourable to lock in a good deal.
Check travel insurance early
Lastly, don’t forget to factor in travel insurance when budgeting for your holiday. Purchasing it early can often save money and ensure you’re covered if plans change. Compare policies to find one that offers the best coverage for your family.
With these tips, your family can enjoy an unforgettable holiday without breaking the bank. Happy planning! Check out my other travel blog posts for more inspiration.
