It feels like it's only been a minute since kids returned to school after a scorching hot summer. But already half-term is fast approaching and it's time to dig deep and find ways of entertaining the family.
For those who want to get away somewhere new, but an abroad holiday is too much of an ask, there are ways to save money whilst enjoying a family staycation in the UK. Travel expert, content creator and mum Jenna Carr says it's possible to have a fun-filled holiday without breaking the bank.
Jenna, the brains behind The Travel Mum, shares budgeting travel tips on her blog and to her 30,000 Instagram followers. She has teamed up with Verdant Leisure to share budgeting tips to ensure holiday goers can focus on making memories, not stretching pennies.
1. Shop smart, pack wisely
Everyone knows the sinking feeling when you open your suitcase and realise you've left your toothbrush/shampoo/mouthwash at home. "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," reminds Jenna.
She adds: "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."
“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."
2. Experience history and heritage
Choose your holiday destination with entertainment in mind, especially if you're bringing young children who can get bored easily. Lots of museums and landmarks across the UK offer free entry or free entry to children, meaning that the money you save on tickets can go towards a nice lunch or perhaps a souvenir.
Jenna says: "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."
3. Put your best foot forward
While taking the car means that things are convenient if you want to go places, filling up the tank more often can easily eat into your budget. Instead, opt for a location that's filled with fun, scenic walks so you don't have to worry about fuel or bus times.
Jenna says, "What’s best about this is, if you’re in a location surrounded by natural beauty, you can make an activity of going for a long walk. Make a treasure hunt for the kids with a list of things they need to spot along the way, like animals and flowers, to keep them engaged and entertained.”
4. Think entertainment
For parents, holidays can be quite stressful so finding a location with lots to do can really ease that burden. Jenna says: "Consider destinations with lots of free things to do, whether that be a beach where you will spend most of the day or an area with beautiful long walks."
The blogger has also teamed up with Verdant Leisure, which offers entertainment to keep the kids engaged giving their parents the chance to unwind. She says: "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!”
