10 Important Tips For Saving Money While On Holiday

You’ve bought plane tickets to your holiday spot at a discounted rate, have bought dollars/pounds from your favourite Mallam and now you’re all set to go on holiday. But then the recent economic crisis around the world has got you a bit concerned. After all, there are school fees to be paid at the end of the summer break among other unavoidable expenses. Well, from us to you, your first point of action is to not fret. With the right financial spending measures in place, you can still have a relaxing and memorable holiday without going broke, one that’s also worth the money and time put in to make it a reality. Read on to find out how. 1. Plan your holiday (and stick with it): Have you ever wandered into a market without a shopping list? If yes, you would agree that you end up buying what you don’t actually need, and this can also apply to your holiday if care is not taken. It’s important to plan right down to the very details where you will stay, visit and possibly eat before you begin. 2. Measure your luggage: Many people spend unnecessary expenses on excess luggage charges going to and fro. Don’t be one of them. Be sure to weigh your luggage before you leave for the airport with a luggage scale; some of which are very small, portable and easy to use. 3. Drink free water: Unknown to some people, you can actually ask for free (drinkable) tap water with your meals in countries like the United Kingdom. This saves you loads of cash spent at restaurants, fast food joints, hotels and even at the cinema. 4. Carry around your water bottle: Another refreshment option is to set out each day with a large bottle of water that can be used by you and the family. 5. Travel with basics: Pack basic provisions, food items and toiletries, so you don’t have to buy them abroad. They can be much more expensive than the local versions we have here with heavy tax additions in countries like Canada. 6. Walk: So much money can be saved from taking walks instead of commuting by bus, or even worse, taxis. Of course, this only helps if where you’re going to is within walking distance. 7. Have brunch at an all-you-can-eat buffet: You can strike off two meals at a go with this option. Some offer meals at very affordable rates – Chinese buffet restaurants particularly – which is an added bonus. 8. Avoid breakfast at hotels: It’s expensive; very expensive compared to what you can have at a local café a few minutes away from the hotel. 9. Stay with a friend: Hotels are nice to stay in, but not as cost-effective as living with a close friend or relative who’s happy to have you. 10. Ask for student, children and 60+ discounts: Museums, galleries, cinemas, amusement parks and other entertainment centers offer great discounts for people who fall under these age ranges, so don’t forget to ask for them at point of ticket purchase. Note that students have to present valid ID cards, so make sure your children pack them along.