With October half-term on the horizon, families will be searching for fun activities to do during the week, and for those looking to get away, travelling to a nearby location does not need to cost a fortune.
Mum Jenna Carr has shared some money-saving travel tips so that you can enjoy a good staycation without breaking the bank.
Keep everything within walking distance – and make an activity out of it
Jenna said: “Choosing a holiday location where everything you need can be accessed quickly on foot means you don’t have to worry about budgeting for transport during your stay as you’ll save tonnes on petrol and public transport costs.
If you are in a location surrounded by natural beauty, you can make an activity of going for a long walk with your family.
Make a “treasure hunt” for the kids with a list of things they need to spot along the way to keep them engaged and entertained on the walk.
“The UK has ample options to inspire a walkable holiday so it’s all about choosing the best one for you and your family.”
Look for low-cost, child-friendly entertainment
The travel expert said: “Consider destinations with lots of free things to do.
“Whether that be a beach where you will spend most of your day, or an area with beautiful long walks.
“Choosing locations with on-site entertainment can also help mix things up whilst keeping fuel costs down.
“I always make sure I know where the nearest parks and playgrounds are as they are a cheap and cheerful way to cheer up a grumpy child!”
Shop smart and pack wisely
The former NHS doctor said: “The great thing about a staycation is that you have no restrictions on luggage weight, liquids, or size of your bags.
“If you are travelling via public transport however, you still want to pack sensibly and take as little as possible.
“Make sure you have all the cosmetics you need before travelling and shop around for the best deals if you don’t already have what’s needed.
“You can’t guarantee there will be a budget shop at your destination, and you could end up paying above the odds in a fancy store or supermarket buying whatever is convenient.
“Packing smart and stocking up on essentials means that, if you do want to treat the family to a meal whilst you’re away, for example, you can do so without tightening the purse strings.”
Experience British heritage
The mum said: “We base a lot of our UK holidays around national parks that we would love to visit.
“Countryside holidays offer a vast expanse of unique wildlife to explore, scenic walks and botanical gardens.
“Most national parks and nature reserves are free to visit, while others require a membership, although usually children get free entry.
“Museums and landmarks also play a huge part in our holidays as they are a great day out immersing yourself in history and culture, and all which have free entry in the UK.”
Jenna teamed up with Verdant Leisure to share these budgeting tips to ensure holidaymakers can focus on making memories, not stretching pennies.
Stacey Hope, Communications Director at Verdant Leisure added: “Holidaying in the UK has become increasingly popular over the last couple of years, with so much sight-seeing to be done.
“The best part is that there is something to suit everyone, from relaxing beach holidays to adrenaline fuelled adventures.
“Staycations can also be done on a tight budget without sacrificing on fun, just requiring a little careful consideration and planning.”
