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With the cost of living crisis affecting families in Hampshire and across the UK, many people are reassessing their holidays this year.
Increasing expenses are eating into disposable income prompting people to change the way they travel. By seeking out budget-friendly options closer to home, it may still be possible to get away this summer without causing additional stress and money worries.
Budgeting for all travel expenses
It’s more important than ever to set a budget when travelling. Carefully plan how much you can afford to spend, and make your holiday work within your budget. Your budget will determine all aspects of your holiday, including where you travel and how long you go for.
When setting a budget, there are several different costs to take into account. Everything must be taken into consideration to come up with a realistic figure.
Transportation: Getting to your destination and moving around once you're there is a significant part of your travel expenses. Calculate the costs of flights, trains, buses, or fuel if you're driving. Reducing travel costs is one of the main reasons why more people are opting to stay in the UK this summer.
Visas and travel documents: This is one expense that is often overlooked. Depending on your destination, you may need to get a visa or travel permit. Research the requirements well in advance, as visa fees can vary. With no visa requirements, UK or European destinations are good options if you want to avoid this expense. However, you will soon need to pay for ETIAS to visit European destinations like France and Spain. Though minors and applicants over 70 years old will receive an ETIAS free of charge. Get more information about the new travel permit if you’re planning a trip to Europe from 2024.
Accommodation: Finding affordable accommodation is crucial to keeping travel costs down. Look for budget hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals. Consider staying outside of major cities or tourist hotspots where accommodation tends to be more expensive. If you’re staying within Hampshire, ask other residents for recommendations, local knowledge can save you money.
Food and dining: Food expenses can add up quickly, especially if eating out for every meal. Consider self-catering accommodation with kitchen facilities so you can cook at home. Also, find the best places to buy your groceries in the area you’ll be staying including local markets. Be prepared when heading out for the day—take lunch and snacks with you to avoid overspending later. This is recommended especially when travelling with children.
Entertainment and activities: Look into local attractions and activities at your destination to check the costs. Search for free or low-cost options such as visiting parks, gardens, or museums with discounted or free admission. In Winchester and the surrounding area, there are many low-cost local events taking place throughout the summer. You can still have fun, even on a budget.
Tips for reducing travel costs
Demand for UK staycations is on the rise . This is largely down to the fact that it’s cheaper than going overseas. Flights are often one of the most expensive parts of a trip, avoiding international travel can significantly reduce how much you spend.
There are many beautiful places right on our doorstep in this part of the UK. Why not visit towns within Hampshire that you haven’t been to before? There’s plenty of history, culture, and natural beauty to enjoy across the county. Alresford, Lyndhurst, and Romsey are some of the towns you might want to consider.
If you would like to visit other parts of the United Kingdom, coastal areas are ideal for free days out at the beach, or national parks to spend time outdoors. If you would prefer to travel internationally, some European destinations make it possible to travel on a budget.
Booking in advance is another good way to save money. Securing flights and accommodation ahead of time provides access to discounted rates and early bird offers. You can also make use of online platforms that compare prices across various travel providers to find the best deals.
Finally, take advantage of off-peak travel periods. This is not only a way to save money, but also to avoid the crowds. If you’re a family restricted by school holidays, a good option may be to go away at the very end of the summer.
Proper research and planning are key to finding the best deals and discounts, so be sure to explore all options before booking.
By implementing these cost-saving strategies, we hope more Hampshire residents can enjoy a memorable holiday despite the current financial pressures. We encourage you to share your own budget travel experiences and tips in the comments section or on social media.
We understand that travelling is not an option for many people this year. If you need support during the cost of living crisis, there’s help available. Hampshire County Council has funds designated to help with energy and food costs, check all the services available on the council website.
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