If you’re looking to swerve the splurge and keep your spends in check while you’re on holiday, it’s actually easier than you think. Transport tricks, living like locals, free things to do – there are so many ways to curb your spending. All it takes is a little planning and holiday budgeting to make your money go further – just ask our experts…

Wallet-friendly wining and dining

Make the most of lunch menus

“The fixed-price menus at many restaurants are cheaper at lunchtime than in the evening, so you might want to eat big in the middle of the day and go for a simpler option at night.”

Lisa Farrell, Creative & Campaigns Manager

Hunt down happy hours

“Drinks and food are often cheaper or even two-for-one during happy hours and early-bird sessions, so keep your eyes peeled for those chalkboards and save a packet on eating out. It's a great way to keep your budget in check.”

Olivia Matthews, Content Executive

Pack a purse-friendly picnic

“Picnics on the sand, anyone? They’re ideal for saving on meals and taking full advantage of a beachfront-row seat. If you’re staying in an all-inclusive hotel, speak to them and they might pack up your lunch to take with you.”

Charlotte Thompson, Senior Digital Executive

Discounted days out

Jump on the bus!

“Take public transport. When you can't get from A to B on foot, swap taxis for buses to save money. That way, you'll see more of your resort too!”

Louisa Brumfield, Content Executive

Nail down your itinerary and make a budget

“Before you go, research your destination to find out exactly what there is to see and do, as well as local prices in your destination. Make sure you plan in plenty of free activities like beach days, sandcastle building competitions, nature trails, treasure hunts and trips to local parks – the options are endless! Then make a budget for each day so you know exactly what you have to spend.”

Imogen Goulding, Senior Content Executive

Cost-cutting in Europe’s top spots

Make the most of cheap street eats

"For the cheapest (and best) parboils on the whole island, swing by L’ Hostal in Montuiri – it’s where all the locals go so you know it’s good!"

Marlen Canoura, Contractor

See an Ibiza sunset for less

“If you’re looking for that iconic Café Mambo sunset on a budget, grab yourself an ice-cold can of Fanta Limon + a packet of Lays crisps, then head down to the Mambo Rocks for that perfect memory-making moment.”

Craig Probert, Talent Acquisition Partner

Try a well-kept secret

“Go to Maritsa Village Taverna in Rhodes. You don’t order from a menu here, they give you whatever seasonal food they’ve cooked up and you just pay a flat per person rate for whatever you eat. It’s a well-kept secret well worth trying.”

Michalis Fustos, Contracts Manager

Snap up a snack with your drink

“Look for weekend offers on vermouth and wine packs in Costa Dorada’s local bars – they usually include crisps, olives or nuts when ordering for two people.”

Lisa Hall, Contracts Manager

Ask for two-for-one ice cream

“Usually, a scoop of ice cream is large in Croatia, so you can enjoy two different flavours and pay for only one portion. When ordering, ask for a "50/50" scoop and save some money on your treat.”

Robert Stopka, Contracts Manager

Save by sharing

“If you go out to eat tapas in Tenerife, order to share, as the locals do. Or order a few starters to share instead of one each, again, as the locals do – it’s a great way to keep the bill down.”

Jannie Andersen, Area Manager – Contracting

Save on your city break

Enjoy Rome (for less) in the winter

“Winter is the perfect time to wander the streets of Rome – it's a magical and memorable experience when the crowds are fewer and the prices are cheaper. And take a refillable water bottle with you as you can refill at the public water fountains.”

Colette Jordan, Destination Manager

Eat like a local and you'll save loads

“It might seem like a good idea to choose a restaurant right next to the Sagrada Familia, but that’s what all the other tourists think too, so chances are the food will be pricey and pretty mediocre. But have a look around the side streets of Barcelona's El Born, Gracie, L’Eixemple and Raval neighbourhoods to find some truly outstanding (and well-priced!) places to eat.”

Andrea MacConnell, GM – Head of Contracting

Find Iceland’s happy hours

“Download the “Reykjavik Appy Hour” to see which bars and restaurants around the city are offering deals and offers at different times of the day – you can get 50% off in most places!”

James Malyon, Director of Digital

Try purse-pleasing Polish plates

“If you want to taste authentic Krakow, then go on the hunt for a traditional milk bar. They serve hearty and authentic Polish food that’s cheap and homemade. Think meaty stews, stuffed cabbage and warming soups for purse-pleasing prices.”

Gina Stone, Content Manager

And some final penny-pinching ideas…

Choose a card made for overseas spending

“There are plenty of travel cards on the market nowadays that are suited for overseas spending. Researching before you travel could save you some precious pennies. Many providers charge either no fee, or a low fee for paying by card, as well as withdrawing cash out while you’re there. A card could also save you carrying round all that cash or having lots of foreign currency left over at the end of your holiday!”

Olivia Matthews, Content Executive

Be smart with your toiletries

“Stock up on toiletries before you travel. The bigger the bottles, the lower the prices usually are. You'll have plenty of space to pack them in your 22kg suitcase. If you're going on holiday with friends, sharing is caring.”

Ashleigh Jones, Senior Content Executive

Make use of your hotel’s facilities

"Put the facilities at your hotel to good use, like free shuttle services to beaches and town centres, reduced bike hire rates or even local restaurant deals. You can ask your In-resort Customer Helper about bookable experiences too."

Imogen Goulding, Senior Content Executive