50 ways to keep the cost of a staycation down

With talk of a potential ‘holiday tax' in parts of England, the cost of staycations could rise.

What’s being proposed?

English regional mayors may be given powers to introduce a visitor levy on overnight stays in hotels, Airbnbs and holiday lets. The idea is to raise funds for local infrastructure and transport.

Why the concern?

Around 200 bosses from major UK accommodation firms, including Butlin's, Hilton, and Travelodge, have written to the chancellor warning that extra charges could impact families and jobs.

Whether the tax happens or not, there are still plenty of ways to cut costs.

Here are 50 ways to save money on your staycation

Savings on booking and accommodation

1. Compare prices across platforms like Tripadvisor, Airbnb and Booking.com.
2. Book direct with the hotel, as you may get a better deal or added perks.
3. Travel off-peak, midweek or outside school holidays, if possible.
4. Stay outside tourist hotspots and visit lesser-known areas.
5. Consider camping or glamping for a lower nightly cost.
6. Split a cottage rental between families or friends.
7. Choose self-catering accommodation to save on meals.
8. Look for last-minute deals if you’re flexible on dates.
9. Check cancellation policies in case prices drop later.
10. Ask about discounts, such as for NHS workers. students, military or senior citizens.
11. Use cashback sites when booking.
12. Redeem loyalty points from hotel reward schemes.
13. Stay longer as weekly rates can be cheaper than nightly.
14. House-sit or pet-sit for free accommodation.
15. Swap homes with someone in another part of the UK.

Savings on food and drink

16. Take food and drink with you instead of shopping in tourist areas, which tend to be more expensive.
17. Shop at budget supermarkets like Aldi or Lidl before you go.
18. Meal plan in advance to avoid impulse spending.
19. Pack lunches and snacks for day trips.
20. Bring refillable water bottles.
21. Look for ‘kids eat free’ and ‘happy hour’ deals locally.
22. Check voucher sites like Groupon.
23. Eat out at lunchtime as set menus are often cheaper.
24. Share large portions or order sides instead of mains.
25. Avoid tourist trap restaurants near major attractions.

Savings on travel

26. Car share and split the fuel costs.
27. Fill up before you leave, as motorway fuel is pricier.
28. Drive smoothly and within speed limits to save on petrol.
29. Check fuel price apps before setting off.
30. Use a railcard for discounted train tickets.
31. Book train tickets early for advance fares.
32. Consider coach travel, which is often cheaper.
33. Compare fares via National Rail.
34. Use public transport instead of paying for parking.
35. Walk or cycle locally where possible.
36. Pre-book parking to secure lower rates.
37. Avoid toll roads if alternatives exist.

Savings on activities and entertainment

38. Visit free attractions like beaches, parks and countryside walks.
39. Explore free museums and galleries in towns and cities.
40. Look for free local events or festivals.
41. Use city tourist passes if visiting multiple attractions.
42. Book attraction tickets online in advance for cheaper entry.
43. Search for family bundle tickets.
44. Check discount platforms like Wowcher.
45. Bring your own entertainment, such as games, bikes, snorkels and more.
46. Take advantage of National Trust or English Heritage memberships if you have them.

Smart planning tips

47. Set a daily budget before you go.
48. Track spending on your phone during the trip.
49. Avoid peak travel days, which are Fridays and Sundays.
50. Look for package deals that combine accommodation and activities.