Holidaying on a Shoestring
Whatever your situation, if you’re low on cash it’s bound to make going on holiday regrettably difficult. With a long list of things to think about – flights, accommodation, food, excursions, activities and spending money – holidays are hardly known for being light on the purse strings. However, it is still possible to have an enjoyable holiday on a shoestring. With a bit of careful budgeting, and some creative planning thrown into the mix, you could be on your way to far off climes before you know it.
Though you may well have your heart set on the perfect holiday destination, it’s important to be flexible if you’re on a tight budget. Something as simple as the choice of holiday spot could transform a costly break into a cheap one. Top budget locations include North African countries like Morocco, where everything that isn’t already cheap can be made so with a bit of bartering, and further flung bargain spots like Thailand and Mauritius. Though long-haul flights will inevitably be more expensive, once you arrive on these countries’ shores you’ll find everything is remarkably affordable.
A less popular way of saving money on your holiday is to be flexible with your timing. Tradition dictates that summer holidays should last at least a fortnight, but if all you need is a bit of a getaway from every day life, why not save yourself some cash by shortening your holiday a little? Opting for a break of just 9 days rather than 14 could save you a bundle in accommodation, food and activities costs.
Any traveller on a tight budget would do well to look out a handy guide to all things cheap abroad. Once you’ve chosen your destination, look to companies like Lonely Planet and the Rough Guide to provide invaluable information on the cheapest places to eat, stay, drink and relax. With tips and hints on how to find the best bargain spots as well as advice on how to avoid being fleeced by locals with a keen eye for tourists, a good guide in your pocket will prove to be the ultimate travelling essential.
Ultimately, the most important thing is not to be disheartened by the process of looking for a cheap holiday. Companies like Thomas Cook are always on hand to help with deals on cheap holidays, reasonably priced flights and accommodation, and if you sort yourself out well in advance you could really save on the pennies. And remember – holidaying on a shoestring isn’t impossible, it’s well within your grasp!
