As the cost of living crisis bites, many of us are looking to ways that we can tighten our belts in order to pay mortgages, rent and bills.
The Office for National Statistics said the Consumer Prices Index inflation rose to 6.2% in the 12 months leading up to February 2022, so one big expense that people may not consider is a necessity is a holiday. However, spending quality time with family and friends away from the stresses of work and education will be the respite many of us need in a difficult time.
While those extra costs may have pushed a holiday abroad out of reach, or a trip further afield such as the Scottish Highlands or down to Cornwall is off the cards due to rising fuel costs, you don't have to miss out on a holiday completely. With a little help from the team at holiday bookings system Bookster, we have some tips you can follow to make your 2022 staycation affordable, and one to remember for the right reasons as well.
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Robin Morris, Director of Bookster, said: "We’re already seeing self-catering owners across the UK increasing their weekly rates to cover the soaring costs to run their businesses. They are being hit with price hikes for electricity and gas costs, increased travel costs for cleaners, owners and concierge as well as National Insurance increases."
Start planning your holiday now
Costs are expected to rise further throughout the year. So, locking in a rental price will protect you from future price rises.
Here at the Chronicle, we also suggest looking at alternative forms of accommodation, such as hostels, camp sites and bed and breakfasts. With the latter, your first meal of the day is often included in the price which is one less expense to worry about!
Plan your finances
Work out how much you can realistically afford, taking into account the rise in costs and budget for that. While it would be nice to visit a top-tier attraction every day, these costs can quickly mount up - but thankfully in our region we're blessed with lots of free things to do that the whole family will enjoy.
And despite Northumberland's growing reputation as a foodie destination, you don't have to splash out for a good meal. There are some great options for eating out on a budget in England's most northerly county and in Newcastle city centre.
Travel local
The cost of fuel has increased dramatically and rail prices have risen too, so one of the biggest expenses you'll have it getting there in the first place. Planning a break more locally is more affordable, and parents drastically reduce their chances of hearing the dreaded: "Are we there yet?!"
Are you struggling with the cost of living? Let us know in the comments
In the North East, we're fortunate to have so much on our doorstep that you can travel around the region for decades and continue to discover new things. In recent months, it's been announced that Northumberland alone has one of the best picnic areas in the country at Plankey Mill, one of the top spots for stargazing at Kielder, and one of the best beaches in Europe in Bamburgh.
County Durham has one of the best railway-themed family holidays at Beamish Museum, and Newcastle is one of the best city breaks of 2022, according to travel magazine Condé Nast Traveller. And no matter where you go in the region, a stunning countryside walk is never far away.
Travel light
As someone who can't go for an overnight stay without taking at least three books in my bag, I'm not the authority on travelling light. However, it stands to reason that a lighter car uses less fuel.
Think about how long you're away for, and pack no more than what you need. You often realise when you're travelling you don't need as much stuff as you packed anyway, so as long as you have the essentials (phone, wallet, clothes, medication), there's not a whole lot you won't be able to pick up at your destination if you really need it.
