HOW TO SAVE MONEY DURING SUMMER HOLIDAYS

With the outlook for foreign travel still looking uncertain, many people are now planning a staycation – or day trips out - this summer.

As a result, a recent report found that the cost of UK breaks has dramatically increased from last year, with seven nights in Eastbourne, for example, up by a staggering 70% to £696. Other locations that have also seen big increases include St Ives and Bournemouth.

Despite the rise in price, there’s now little availability – making day trips and breaks with family and friends proving an ideal way to spend our summer hols.

Here’s our round up on how to have some serious summer fun without the post-holiday penny-pinching.

Be flexible

If you're not in a mad rush to reach your destination, focus on finding the most cost-effective way to get there. This could mean driving instead of getting a train and looking for cheaper fares.

Consider alternative accommodation too. Availability is tight anyway, so maybe stay with a friend instead of booking a hotel or self-catering. Or if you don’t mind sleeping under canvas, take a look at campsites.

Rural businesses and landowners are urging the government to relax regulations to enable more temporary campsites to pop up this summer, so there could be lots more cost-effective accommodation options to choose from. It’s really worth keeping your eyes peeled.

Use loyalty and credit card rewards Check with your card issuer to see how many points you have, what you can spend them on, and whether there are any expiry dates.

Take some time now to research any special offers that you can make the most of before summer holidays begin.

You can exchange points for all sorts of days out, breaks and leisure attractions – just make sure you book in advance.

Look for coupons and free activities If you already have an idea of what you want to do on your holiday or days out, check to see if any of those activities offer discounts.

Some places give you money off for being a new customer or signing up for their mailing list. Or you may be able to score a coupon online. Check the expiration date to make sure it's valid when you're there.

For some of the UK’s biggest attractions - including Legoland, Alton Towers and the London Eye - you can get free adult ticket vouchers from cereal packets and hand wash.

It also doesn't hurt to check the area's event calendar before you hit the road. There might be some activities going on you wouldn't have known about otherwise, and they may be more affordable than other things you planned on doing.

Buy an annual ticket

Sometimes, an annual season ticket or membership is a better option. If you plan your visits well, by the end of the summer your days out could be free. Before buying day tickets, check out how much a year-long pass would be. For a little more money up front, you could enjoy the attraction many more times.

Tax-free childcare

The Government has just reminded us that Tax-Free Childcare – a childcare top-up for working parents – can be used to help pay for accredited holiday clubs, childminders and sports activities.

Find out more and check your eligibility here.

Set a budget

Sticking to a budget is a great way to avoid overspending. Whether you’re planning a few days away or a day trip, you'll probably have an idea of how much you're going to spend on travel, accommodation, fuel costs and spends when you’re there. But things like snacks, souvenirs and extra add-on activities can quickly become expensive if you're spending thoughtlessly and don’t have an idea of how much you can afford to spend.