Money-saving tips: Act quickly to secure a bargain trip to the sun
JANUARY is the peak month for summer holiday bookings, with millions of Britons planning their annual trip over the next couple of weeks.
By acting now before the best offers have been snapped up, you can save hundreds of pounds and get the right deal for you.
Bob Atkinson at TravelSupermarket.com, said: "The cold weather since Christmas has only heightened the desire to have a sunshine break and the travel industry is now pulling out all the stops to persuade us to make that booking."
If you have to take your break at a set time of year, for example the school holidays, don't delay, he said.
"Quick action can help you secure headline discounts for early booking, free child places and low deposits."
Use comparison sites for the latest prices on holidays, flights, hotels cruises and car hire but don't ignore the traditional high-street agents, said Atkinson.
"You can compare online prices and use them to negotiate a cheaper deal.
"Be cheeky and ask for some money off, whether you make your booking by phone or on the high street."
You could also save money by putting together a DIY trip with separate flights and hotel.
"The later you leave a DIY trip, the more expensive it becomes, as airline prices rise closer to the departure."
You could take a gamble on getting a last-minute package-holiday discount but these are only available if travel companies such as Thomson or Thomas Cook have unsold holidays.
Be cheeky and ask for some money off, whether you make your booking by phone or on the high street
"Discounted holidays are rarely available during the busy periods such as school holidays," said Atkinson.
Being flexible with your dates can save you money.
"Flights in particular are generally cheaper if you can go midweek, even in the summer months.
"The cheapest fortnight holiday deals are usually after the August Bank Holiday as demand falls when children go back to school."
When working out what you can afford, factor in all the costs.
"Pay attention to airline extras such as baggage charges, seat reservations, booking fees and card payment fees.
"Also budget for airport parking, transfer fees, car hire in the resort and drinks and activities," Atkinson added.
The pound has strengthened so you can make your money go further by picking your destination carefully.
Atkinson said: "Current best value destinations include Spain, Portugal, Bulgaria, Turkey, Cyprus and Greece.
"Among popular long-haul destinations, the cheapest are Bali, Gambia, South Africa, Mexico and Thailand."
Once you have booked your holiday, arrange your travel insurance quickly.
Caroline Lloyd at GoCompare.com, said: "You'll immediately benefit from any cancellation cover provided by your policy, giving you several months' protection in the lead up to your trip.
"It's a false economy to delay arranging your travel insurance."
One-third of travel policy claims are made before people leave the UK, with an average value of £700, according to the Association of British Insurers.
