Many people are looking for ways to make their cash go further in response to the cost of living crisis and record-high levels of inflation.
One thing that some people may cut out to save a chunk of money is a holiday. However, one travel booking platform has revealed its top insider tips to help holidaymakers save money on their next getaway.
HolidayPirates has shared six top tips that industry experts use to bag great deals on their breaks. The platform's advice could help you source the cheapest baggage deals, the best time to book, and tricks for saving on travel extras, reports WalesOnline.
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Cheapest day to book
According to statistics, Tuesday is the cheapest day to book a trip. However, many airlines, such as Ryanair and easyJet, run some of their best promotions and special offers on weekends.
Tuesday is often the cheapest day to travel, followed by Wednesday, with flights on a Friday or Sunday the most expensive. If you're looking for a bargain, try to avoid those peak travel days.
Best time to book
If you're looking to bag a cheap long-haul flights, book four to six months in advance for the best deal. Shorter-haul European routes are best booked four to eight weeks in advance.
Price alerts
Setting a price alert on flight comparison sites could save you cash if you're set on a specific destination, airport and time period. You'll automatically get notifications via email if the price falls, and you won't need to constantly monitor the web.
You can also set a travel alert if you have the HolidayPirates app, where you'll automatically be notified via push notification about offers for your desired destination.
Best way to book a last-minute holiday
If you're relying on weekends or school holidays, you should book as far in advance as possible. However, last-minute bookings are often more cost effective if you are able to travel mid-week or out of peak holiday season.
Package or Individual?
This one depends on a case by case basis. When booking package tours, travellers are legally protected in the event of flight delays or cancellations, insolvencies, or hotel overbookings through the organiser, so this can save holidaymakers a lot of trouble.
Tips for cheaper baggage
With some airlines, it is often cheaper to book the next highest fare if you are taking luggage. Adding luggage with cheaper or low-cost airlines can increase the overall price.
For those who can manage without a checked bag, try to take a cabin bag where possible. If you only have carry-on luggage, you can skip the check-in queues - all you need to do is head for security.
Phil Salcedo, head of market, UK & North America at HolidayPirates, said: "Our website attracts 30 million page views per month, and those views are made up of potential holidaymakers seeking out the next opportunity to save on holiday costs whilst not skimping on important aspects like destination quality.
"We know a thing or two about how to look for a good deal, and holiday thriftiness seems to be top of the agenda for would-be travellers this year in light of the continued rise in the cost of living. Getting a good deal on a much-needed getaway is more important than ever."
Do you have any tips on how to save money when booking a holiday? Let us know!
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