One in five Britons can’t afford a summer holiday - 60 ways to cut the costs of a getaway

One in five Britons say they can’t afford a summer holiday this year because of the rising cost of living. A recent YouGov poll commissioned by fintech company SumUp found that 19% of people are unable to afford to travel, while almost a third have delayed holidays altogether.

But a great summer doesn’t have to come with a huge price tag. Whether you’re planning a UK staycation, a family break abroad or simply looking for affordable ways to keep the kids entertained, there are plenty of ways to save money without missing out.

From cheaper travel and accommodation to budget-friendly food and free activities, here are 60 practical ways to keep holiday costs under control.

Choose cheaper destinations

1. Explore affordable UK breaks

You don’t need to travel far to enjoy a memorable holiday. Budget-friendly destinations such as the Peak District, Norfolk, Northumberland and Cardiff offer fantastic scenery, attractions and family activities without the high costs of overseas travel.

2. Swap tourist hotspots for hidden gems

Smaller towns and lesser-known destinations are often cheaper, quieter and less crowded than major resorts.

3. Holiday closer to home

Cut fuel, train and accommodation costs by exploring attractions in your local area or nearby counties.

4. Visit off-peak

Late spring and early autumn holidays are usually much cheaper than peak summer dates.

5. Avoid weekend departures

Travelling midweek can reduce the cost of flights, trains and hotels.

6. Travel outside school holidays

If you’re not tied to term dates, avoid peak holiday periods when prices soar.

7. Consider Scotland for cheaper flights

Scottish school holidays differ slightly from England’s, meaning flights can sometimes be cheaper from Scottish airports.

8. Compare package holidays with DIY trips

Sometimes package deals work out cheaper, while booking flights and accommodation separately can save money elsewhere.

9. Use a travel agent

Travel agents can occasionally secure exclusive discounts, upgrades or transfers you may not find online.

10. Look for flash sales

Sign up to airline and travel company newsletters for limited-time discounts and last-minute offers.

Save money on accommodation

11. Book directly with hotels

Hotels often offer better rates, free breakfasts or perks when you book direct.

12. Choose self-catering accommodation

Apartments and holiday cottages can work out cheaper for families than multiple hotel rooms.

13. Try hostels

Modern hostels often provide clean private rooms as well as budget dormitories.

14. Go camping or glamping

Camping remains one of the cheapest ways to holiday, while glamping offers extra comfort for less than many hotels.

15. Stay outside city centres

Accommodation just outside busy tourist areas is often quite a bit cheaper.

16. Book midweek stays

Hotels are usually more affordable during the week than at weekends.

17. Use hotel loyalty schemes

Repeat customers can benefit from discounts, upgrades and free nights.

18. Try house-sitting

Websites such as TrustedHousesitters allow travellers to stay for free in exchange for pet care.

19. Swap homes

Home exchange platforms can help you enjoy a holiday without paying for accommodation.

20. Book last-minute deals

Apps like HotelTonight often offer heavily discounted unsold rooms.

Cut travel costs

21. Book train tickets early

Advance fares are usually far cheaper than buying tickets on the day.

22. Split train tickets

Splitting journeys into separate tickets can reduce rail fares be quite a bit.

23. Use a railcard

Railcards can save up to a third on train travel for couples, families and young people.

24. Consider coach travel

National Express and Megabus are often the cheapest long-distance travel options.

25. Car share with friends

Splitting fuel and parking costs can dramatically reduce travel expenses.

26. Walk or cycle on local trips

Save money while staying active and environmentally friendly.

27. Use cashback websites

Sites like TopCashback and Quidco can return money on holiday bookings.

28. Pack light

Travelling with hand luggage only can help avoid expensive baggage charges.

29. Bring your own snacks

Airport meals and motorway services are notoriously expensive.

30. Travel overnight

Night buses and trains can save both transport and accommodation costs.

Spend less on food and drink

31. Pack a picnic

Homemade lunches are far cheaper than buying food at attractions or beaches.

32. Share large portions

Many seaside meals are big enough for two people to share.

33. Eat earlier

Early evening menus and lunch deals are often much cheaper than dinner prices.

34. Look for set menus

Fixed-price menus can offer excellent value, especially abroad.

35. Carry reusable water bottles

Refilling bottles avoids paying premium prices for drinks.

36. Buy ice creams from supermarkets

Supermarket multipacks are far cheaper than kiosks and beach cafés.

37. Use food discount apps

Apps such as Too Good To Go offer heavily reduced meals and groceries.

38. Cook at your accommodation

Self-catering a few meals can save hundreds over the course of a trip.

39. Shop at local markets

Fresh local produce is often cheaper and better quality than tourist restaurants.

40. Avoid tourist traps

Restaurants away from main attractions are usually cheaper and more authentic.

Make the most of loyalty schemes and budgeting tools

41. Use supermarket loyalty points

Tesco Clubcard and Nectar points can be exchanged for attractions, cinema tickets and groceries.

42. Redeem points for family days out

Loyalty rewards can cover the cost of aquariums, theme parks and heritage sites.

43. Check voucher expiry dates

Some rewards need to be redeemed before travel.

44. Set a holiday budget

Planning spending in advance helps avoid overspending while away.

45. Use budgeting apps

Apps such as TravelSpend help track holiday spending.

46. Save gradually throughout the year

Putting aside small amounts regularly can make holidays more manageable.

47. Create a dedicated holiday fund

Separating holiday savings from everyday spending can help you stay on track.

48. Pay in local currency abroad

Declining pound sterling conversion usually avoids extra charges.

49. Compare exchange rates before travelling

Shopping around can save far more than changing money at the airport.

50. Use travel-friendly bank cards

Some banks and fintech apps offer fee-free overseas spending.

Find free and low-cost activities

51. Search for free local events

Community festivals, outdoor concerts and sports days can provide affordable entertainment.

52. Visit beaches and parks

Nature-based days out are often the cheapest and most memorable.

53. Plan woodland walks or bike rides

Outdoor activities can keep families entertained for very little cost.

54. Organise movie nights at home

A cosy film night can be just as enjoyable as an expensive cinema trip.

55. Stock up on arts and crafts

Simple creative activities can keep children occupied during the holidays.

56. Visit free museums and galleries

Many museums and cultural attractions across the UK are free to enter.

57. Look for family attraction discounts

Many attractions offer reduced online prices or family passes.

58. Borrow rather than buy holiday gear

Friends and family may have tents, cool bags or beach equipment you can use.

59. Plan ahead to avoid impulse spending

Researching activities and food options in advance can help prevent overspending.

60. Focus on experiences, not extravagance

The best holidays are often about spending quality time together rather than spending lots of money.

A summer holiday doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With careful planning, flexibility and a few smart money-saving tricks, it’s still possible to enjoy a relaxing break without blowing the budget.