Getaways on a budget

Well, it seems it is that time of year again holiday season is once more upon us but in today’s economic climate a good break is not always possible, never fear though – here are some tips on getting away without it costing the Earth. Try a stay-cation – OK, so you can’t rely on the weather (where’s the fun in it being sunny all the time anyway) but consider the following: Getting there – if you’re driving it will be easier to calculate fuel costs in advance because you know what the UK roads are like and roughly how many miles per gallon your car uses. So, no hidden hire car costs or the stress of driving on foreign roads. Or if you are going to let the train take the strain there are some very good deals to be had but you do need to shop around and be flexible about the times/dates, start looking at least 2 months before you intend to travel there are several websites to choose from. Where to stay – by far the cheapest type of accommodation is a tent, there are campsites across the country at a range of prices generally the more you pay the better the facilities but that is not always the case so be careful. Don’t be fooled into buying lots of expensive gear, shop around using price comparison sites or ask around family and friends for spare equipment that can be borrowed. If a tent really isn’t for you lots of campsites hire out static caravans which are slightly less basic but still not as costly as a B&B or hotel. If you’d prefer to stay in a building but don’t mind forgoing some privacy try a youth hostel – not just for youngsters, but you’ll find most people who stay there are under 30, if all you want is a bed and somewhere to have a wash then you can’t go far wrong. There are those of course that need a proper bed and a room to themselves, again it is about shopping around, be flexible with dates and where you want to stay. Other tips – make the most of what is included in the price, if you are staying in a B&B fill up at breakfast time so you don’t need lunch (or only need a light one) buying three meals a day can soon become costly. Watch the pennies, the cost of entrance fees to attractions, parking, a round of ice creams or a coffee break very quickly adds up without you realising. Try and keep a running total of what you are spending even down to the change! If you really must leave the country – Ok, I’m prepared to admit that there is something to be said for a few days of guaranteed sunshine. Once again getting a deal is all about shopping around, high street travel agents can still be quite competitive especially on last minute deals. There are numerous websites offering cheap flights and hotels also keep your eye on the daily deals websites such as Groupon or Living Social.

For a great selection of interesting things to do at the weekend that can be purchased as a gift or for yourself from My Outdoor Store. Follow the link to discover our vast selection of days out ideas.