Looking for that sunshine getaway but on a budget? We round up the key ways to save while enjoying a fabulous summer break. Simply try these 5 great tips.

As the mercury rises, no one could blame you for daydreaming of palm-fringed promenades and perfect pools as the office clock ticks ever slower. 

Summer is a chance to switch off, travel with friends and explore far-flung shores. It’s a time of adventure, discovering new cultures, submerging yourself in crystalline waters, or simply soaking up the glamour of a fabulous hotel. 

The skies are blue, the water’s inviting, and everyone deserves a chance to dive into the perfect holiday, even if you’re on a budget!

Whether you’re dreaming of serene spa sanctuaries on the Mediterranean’s most privileged shores or exotic escapes in far-flung destinations, we’ve put together our top five tips for saving money on holidays to enjoy the ultimate holiday this summer. 

Head to affordable summer holiday destinations

While sun-kissed shores hosting glamorous marinas and vibrant nightlife might come with a price tag, you’ll find a much better deal if you head off the beaten track. Certain destinations promise affordable luxury for all for romantic escapes, family getaways, or reunions with friends. 

Head to the Black Sea beaches of Bulgaria or the picturesque seaside villages of Macedonia with TUI, and you’ll enjoy that beachfront bliss for less. Impulse trip to the Mayan Riviera, anyone?

Whether you’re looking for a last-minute long-haul adventure, an all-inclusive Italian idyll offering luxury for less, or a romantic European river cruise, TUI offers incredible deals in stunning locations worldwide. 

And easyjet holidays is also a fantastic option for budget breaks and last-minute offers, with sun-seeking tourists often able to find package deals for less than £500 per person and extra money off single-parent trips and school holiday getaways. 

From affordable luxury on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast to buzzing weekends in lovely Lisbon or a sun-splashed adventure in the volcanic Canary Isles, see how much you can save when you fly with easyJet.

Book cheap flights without baggage

It’s still possible to snap up some fantastic cheap flights and jet off for less this year. And with short-haul flights offering the best, most affordable deals for those willing to travel light, how many outfits do you really need? 

Head to easyjet flights to find fabulous European flights from an airport near you, including return flights to Malaga for £23 or a whirlwind trip to Amsterdam for £14.99 per person. You can pick up a last-minute deal for £20 per person or book ahead for summer with return flights starting at £14 - you’ll even get your cabin bag included!

Jet2 is also making headlines for its budget breaks this year, with tourists picking up return flights slashed by 10% and summer city breaks from just £50. You can even get a flat 10% off with the app and add the perfect hotel on some of the most privileged shores of the Mediterranean. 

Book at the right time

When is the cheapest time to book a summer holiday? Most would say “as soon as you’re ready,” but we can’t deny that booking ahead often opens you up to fantastic deals and vastly improves the selection of resorts and rooms available. 

However, some fantastic gems can be found if you wait until the last minute! Hotels don’t want empty rooms in the high season, so a last-minute booking can often unveil a world of luxury for less. 

Booking for the shoulder season of June and September lets you avoid the school holiday madness in July and August. On the other hand, did you know that flying on a Friday can help you save an average of 15% on international flights? And the best day to book is a Sunday, which can help you save 10% on average. 

Be flexible with travel dates

Just because a two-week package deal seems out of reach doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a memorable holiday this year. A seven-day or 10-day trip can help you enjoy your moment in the sun for less, and we love the rise we’ve seen in holiday operators offering this kind of flexible deal. 

Stray from the beaten path of two-week trips, and you’re bound to see prices fall. And if money’s tight, why not opt for a long weekend instead? Choose your flights carefully, and you’ll enjoy the ultimate relaxation and still come home with that enviable summer glow without breaking the bank. 

Flexibility with your flight times can also lead to significant savings, especially if you’re an early riser. Booking a flight at an unusual time can help you save on your trip, meaning more fun while you’re away. 

Try self catering!

There’s nothing better than sharing a relaxing holiday with your friends, whether on the shores of Sicily or much closer to home. While “Are package holidays cheaper?” is the question on everyone’s lips this year, we have another star choice to present.

Opting for self-catering accommodation in the UK can help you keep an eye on your budget, especially if you’re happy to cook at home with only the occasional meal out. Sharing the costs of a food shop and then making a picnic for the beach or woodland walk keeps your costs down and allows you to be flexible with your food choices. 

And remember, by ordering ahead, you can ensure your ASDA delivery arrives when you do, so you have everything you need for the perfect garden party or a barbecue.

You deserve a summer getaway!

The temperatures are soaring, and the beaches are calling; it’s time to get away. It’s been a long year for everyone, and we all deserve a chance to truly relax. And luckily for us, there’s no reason to let the increased cost of living hold you back when you take advantage of these spectacular summer deals. 

Think flexible, time it right, and you could be sunning yourself on an island idyll in no time. Or, why not opt for a whirlwind city escape to soak up the best of European culture on a long, relaxing weekend? 

From self-catered havens on the wild British coast to spa sanctuaries in the Far East, saving money on holidays is easier than ever this year.

Whatever you choose and wherever you go, our money-saving tips guarantee you a memorable summer this year.

Looking for more tips for your summer plans? 

Check out our other articles and find our best advice for making your summer plans more affordable. Learn how to survive festival season on a budget, or how to keep your hair healthy on your summer holiday!