Top tips to save on your 'staycation'

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to wreak havoc in the travel industry, with new restrictions being announced each week, Brits have turned their attention to ‘staycations’ closer to home to avoid potential quarantines.

But these can come at a price. Research suggests that staying in the UK could actually cost more than going abroad.

Nearly two in five (37%) of holiday-makers told Gumtree a holiday at home is costing them about £112 ($147) more than if they were to leave the country.

Despite this, the same study showed that nearly three in five (56%) Brits said they don’t see themselves leaving the UK anytime soon, and half have already planned an “at-home-holiday” for 2021.

Booking site Unique Cotswold Cottages has broken down easy ways you could make big savings on your next staycation.

Go for a location that’s next to the most well-known or more remote

This is an obvious but little-known trick and it means that rather than choosing Brighton, look for something that is nearby like Hove.

It’s far enough to be out of the Brighton price vicinity but only a stroll along the beach promenade into the city.

Looking more remotely can also save you money. When you book somewhere that’s closer to civilisation, you’ll pay a premium for places that are in sought after villages or towns.

Go off-peak

Off-peak months like November, January and February are great picks to save money.

These are months when you can still get some dry and bright days. An added bonus is that the tourist attractions are likely to be less busy at this time.

Booking during school term time can also mean savings, while travelling on off-peak trains and booking in advance is also cheaper.

Coach travel can also be cheaper than travelling on trains.

Book direct

If you are searching on the internet it’s likely that you will find places to stay on the online travel agents (OTA’s) like Airbnb, booking.com, or Expedia.

Once you have found a property you like it is worth googling the property name and booking through their own website as in virtually all cases, you’ll be looking saving money.

OTAs charge commission so booking direct is usually the best way to go.

Plan a budget

Setting a budget or a daily spend, as you might do for a foreign holiday, can minimise costs and stop spending spiralling out of control.

Then you will know your limit for spending on treats.

READ MORE: Nearly a third of people planning staycation this year