Here’s how to save hundreds on your holiday with an easy swap
HOLIDAYMAKERS have been advised how to save hundreds on trips abroad with an easy swap.
Brits can cut the costs of trips abroad by being smart about where they go this Easter or summer, according to new research.
Simple ‘resort swaps’ allow tourists to take advantage of the pound being strong against particular currencies, meaning the exchange rate gives you more value for money.
This trick helps you avoid sneaky mounting costs of goods like food and drink in what you might have thought were budget destinations.
Ed Dutton, from Post Office Travel Money, said: “A bargain package price does not always mean a cheap holiday, and could easily prove to be a costly mistake if the prices of food and drink are high.
“The art of bagging a bargain lies in factoring in all elements of your holiday. There is a world of difference in the cost of meals, drinks and other tourist staples, so swapping destinations could save hundreds of pounds in a week.
Holiday packages usually only include flights and accommodation, but plenty of costs can build up for purchases made on holiday.
Post Office research found that Brits budgeted an average of £344 for spending over their package price on their last holiday.
However, 70% even managed to over spend that extra headroom by an average of £132.
Recent falls against the Euro and US Dollar amid spirally inflation have ruled out more traditional summer holiday spots like Spain or the Caribbean.
However, Sterling’s strength against the Egyptian pound or Sri Lankan rupee has opened up opportunities for new trips to more exotic locations, while keeping the budget in check.
Mr Dutton added: “Be flexible in your holiday thinking.
“Bagging a bargain break is still possible, provided you do your homework.”
He explained that visitors to Egypt will have the equivalent of £210 more of the local currency when exchanging GBP £500 compared to this time last year.
Meanwhile, prices have fallen in similar destinations, creating a perfect storm for holidaymakers.
Researchers compare prices of an average three-course meal got two, with a bottle of wine, a cup of coffee, a beer, a soft drink and a bottle of mineral water.
The figures showed how resort-swapping can save you money, even with regions.
For example, in the Middle East, the meal would be priced at £121 in Jumeirah Beach, Dubai, compared to just £53 in Sharm-el-Sheik, Egypt.
Likewise, in Europe, Portugal’s Algarve beats out the more popular Costa Del Sol, Spain for value by £45.06 compared to £57.11.