As we head into 2026, savvy travellers are looking for ways to make their trips more affordable. With the right strategies in place, it is possible to save big on everything from flights to accommodation.
Travel experts at online tour operator Exoticca.com revealed insider tips for securing the best holiday deals, offering guidance on maximising savings when planning trips and holidays.
Among adult Brits, 76% have booked or are planning to book a holiday this year. This just goes to show that to most Brits, holidays are non-negotiable expenses, so finding ways to cut travel costs has never been more important.
1. Set price alerts for flight deals
Booking flights in advance saves money and setting up price alerts ensures you get the best deal. Use Skyscanner and Google Flights to track prices and get notified when they drop, giving you more options and a better chance to secure the lowest price.
2. Go to countries with cheap daily costs
Travelling to destinations with lower living costs can greatly reduce your overall expenses. Cities like Budapest and Belgrade offer affordable accommodation and dining. Use cost comparison tools like Numbeo to find the best value for your next trip.
3. Spread the cost of your holiday
If you find a great deal but need time to pay, services like Klarna let you spread the cost over three months interest-free. This option is available on platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, and Expedia, allowing you to secure your booking and pay at your own pace.
4. Book hotels via smartphone for extra discounts
Booking hotels through your smartphone may unlock mobile-only discounts. Websites like Booking.com and Hotels.com often offer lower rates on their apps. Additionally, calling the hotel directly could sometimes result in cheaper rates or added perks.
5. Don’t book too early or too late
The sweet spot for the most affordable time to book an international holiday is 15-30 days before, resulting in £95 in savings, and booking 31-45 days ahead can save £85 on average. For fewer delays, travel in January, the least busy month to fly, and consider June for lower costs, when fares are 68% lower than in December.
Booking on a Sunday can save you 6% on domestic holidays and 17% on international ones. Contrary to popular belief, you should avoid booking on Tuesdays, as it is the most expensive day.
6. Use trains over flights
Travelling by train, such as taking the Eurostar to Paris, can save you money compared to flights. European train systems offer great discounts for early bookings. Plus, trains provide more flexibility and often offer a more scenic and comfortable journey.
7. Keep flights cheap with flexible dates
Being flexible with your travel dates can lead to significant savings, as airlines often offer lower fares on less popular days. Shifting your travel dates by a day or two can make a big difference. For example, flying on a Friday is the cheapest option, and the most expensive day is Saturday, just one day apart.
8. Check in as early as possible
Seats with extra legroom, such as exit rows and bulkhead seats, are usually sold at a premium. However, they can be worth the upgrade on longer flights. If you’re trying to sit together without paying extra, checking in as early as possible gives you the best chance.
9. Consider hotels over Airbnb for better value
In many destinations, hotels are often more affordable than Airbnb rentals. According to a recent study by Which?, hotel rooms were an average of £67 cheaper than one-bedroom Airbnb rentals in 38 out of 50 destinations. Additionally, booking hotels on Thursdays can save you up to 6%.
10. Stay in lesser-known cities for huge savings
Staying in well-known cities can drive up your travel costs. Consider alternatives like Lille instead of Paris for a more affordable yet charming experience. These hidden gems offer lower accommodation and dining costs, helping you stretch your budget.
A spokesperson from Exoticca.com also added their favourite bonus tip: “One thing most people don’t realise is that a standard Tesco Clubcard shop can accumulate enough Avios for a European return flight within six months. We’ve seen customers fund entire hotel stays just through everyday shopping points, and with the average Brit set to spend over £2,000 on holidays this year, those small savings really add up.”
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