Cheap hotels

‘I’m a travel expert – this is my step-by-step guide to finding cheap holidays’

Whether your dream escape involves tanning on a tropical beach or exploring Europe with a backpack, a smart booking strategy can make it a reality. Here are some tips to help you save money when booking your 2026 holiday…

As the bitter cold arrives and we wrap ourselves in our cosiest knitted jumpers, it’s perfectly normal to start fantasising about warmer climes and thrilling getaways.

Whether you’re picturing yourself soaking up rays on a paradise beach or trekking across Europe with just a rucksack, clever booking tactics can turn those dreams into reality.

Making magical memories doesn’t have to break the bank, so here are two travel experts’ step-by-step guides to slashing costs when planning your 2026 getaway, and making sure that your break is budget-friendly as it can be.

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Book far in advance

“If you can book three to nine months in advance you can often get good deals, especially for packaged holidays or if you’re booking for a family,” says Laura Carden-Lovell, travel expert and head of operations at Transfer Travel.

“We’ve seen that slow travel, so taking longer to get to a destination, has been increasing in popularity,” Carden-Lovell points out. “So, taking the scenic train for example. Trains can be quite expensive so I would recommend booking these far in advance.”

Utilise comparison websites

Fight the temptation to snap up the first bargain that appears in your social media feed, as a little extra patience and detective work could uncover an even better offer.

“Have a look around and use comparison sites to compare prices before you hop onto the first holiday you see,” advises Carden-Lovell. “Comparison sites like Skyscanner and Hopper are brilliant.”

Purchase individual flights

“Booking one-way flights is often a great hack and can be a good way to reduce the prices of flights, as booking a return flight can often be more expensive,” says Carden-Lovell.

Is an all-inclusive break really good value?

Do your homework and weigh up self-catering options. Carden-Lovell suggests, “I think that all-inclusive holidays can be more convenient and potentially cheaper for families and bigger parties, but for solo travellers I think there are ways you could do it cheaper by just buying local food, for example,”.

Consider booking a holiday outside of the peak season to avoid inflated flight costs and crowds

“Shoulder season, typically between September and March (excluding Christmas and New Year), is probably the best time of year to go on holiday to get cheaper tickets,” Carden-Lovell advises. “Most destinations also tend to be less crowded this time of year.”

Jakes Maritz, co-founder of Expat Explore, added: “Timing is everything. If you can, book flights for a Tuesday or Wednesday as midweek departures are often significantly cheaper than weekend travel. It’s also worth checking prices from regional airports, where lower demand can translate into smaller surcharges and more affordable fares.”

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Resale platforms might be worth considering if your dates aren’t flexible

“If you can’t be flexible with dates, using resale marketplaces are often a good way to get a cheap holiday package,” says Carden-Lovell. “If someone can’t go on their holiday, they can list it on a resale marketplace like Transfer Travel and you can often get a really good bargain.”

Despite some negative perceptions, Carden-Lovell assures, “I know resale platforms have had a bad rep for not being safe and secure, but they are usually a simple, safe and legit way to do it, rather than Facebook marketplace. Just make sure you check that customer services are verifying each listing and that the platform you are using has a secure payment method.”

Consider trips to the Mediterranean, Eastern Europe or Scandinavia

Carden-Lovell suggests, “I think it is a good idea to stay away from the really popular destinations and to consider going on holiday somewhere like Eastern Europe instead, for example, which is likely to be cheaper in 2026,” He also mentions that “Coolcations are also trending and Scandinavian countries are really good and are generally cheaper to visit now. Mediterranean countries like Greece and Portugal are also looking super cheap in the forecast for 2026.”

Look at alternative accommodation

Why not swap those pricey hotels for something a bit different?

“For budget travellers, places like hostels are often really cheap and Airbnbs can often be a cheap alternative to typical hotels as well,” Carden-Lovell advises. “Staying outside the major tourist hubs is also a good tip to save money on accommodation during the summer holidays.”

Check on Sundays

“When it comes to accommodation, keep an eye on Sundays,” advises Maritz. “Industry data consistently shows that this is the cheapest day of the week to book hotels. Travellers should also consider package deals, as bundling flights, hotels and sometimes activities together often comes out cheaper and protects you from hidden costs.”

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Gorgeous destination 5 hours from UK is 29C in October with bargain luxury hotels

El Gouna, just 30 minutes north of Hurghada, Egypt, is a luxurious self-contained resort town offering a plethora of activities and a variety of opulent hotels catering to all sorts of holidays, from honeymoons to family trips and golfing breaks.

The Red Sea, renowned for its winter sunshine destinations such as Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada in Egypt, remains a top choice for those craving winter warmth.

Boasting glorious weather throughout the year and reasonably short flight times, it’s a perfect option for UK holidaymakers. Moreover, the abundance of package deals makes organising a spontaneous escape incredibly straightforward.

However, if you’re seeking something rather more distinctive, whilst still accessible, there’s a destination that’s well-known among Egyptians and kitesurfing enthusiasts, but remains largely undiscovered by many Brits.

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El Gouna, merely 30 minutes north of Hurghada, Egypt, is an upmarket self-contained resort town providing countless activities and an array of lavish hotels suitable for all types of breaks, from romantic getaways to family holidays and golfing retreats, reports MyLondon.

Melanie Kaidan, senior lifestyle reporter at the Express, experienced El Gouna first-hand. She said: “During my 5-night holiday, I was able to sample only a few of the many excursions and comforts this town has to offer, starting with a thrilling desert quad bike safari, where I visited a Bedouin encampment at sunset.”

She added: “Staying at the Steigenberger Golf Resort gave me an outlook into the more mature, relaxed side of the resort, where crowds vary from families with young children to seniors golfing on the hotel’s own 18-hole championship golf course located on the other side of the lagoon.”

For those craving a more energetic break, the celebrated Mangroovy Beach draws kitesurfers from far and wide, whilst the stylish Casa Cook Hotel sits conveniently beside a kite centre which Melanie described as ideal for visitors “who like to get up and go”.

El Gouna offers far more than its stunning golden sandy shores – it boasts magnificent coral reefs and shipwrecks, including the celebrated Sha’ab El Erg and Careless Reef. These aquatic treasures await discovery through snorkelling and diving excursions.

Navigating the resort proves effortless, with journeys lasting no longer than 20 minutes. Melanie recommended: “For those seeking a truly local experience, tuk-tuks are a whimsical way to explore the town that makes spontaneous stops much easier and fun.”

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She also highlighted the vibrant evening entertainment. Melanie explained: “When it comes to dining and nightlife, Abu Tig Marina and the Downtown area are the places to be, with local shops and restaurants offering something for everyone. At dawn, these areas come to life, becoming a hotspot for visitors looking to try different cuisines, from the top-rated African eatery Bongoyo, to Camino, a lively Latin restaurant.”

Another top-rated activity in El Gouna is crafting your own fragrance. Melanie said: “I’d strongly recommend anyone going to El Gouna create their own scent to remember their holiday at Norshek, a little store selling hair and body products made with natural oils. Here, you can customise your body butter, hand wash, perfume or hair conditioner to your liking. Try oud and pomegranate for a sweet and indulgent, long-lasting mix.”

For lovers of Indian food, Melanie suggested Tandoor as essential, “not only for its privileged location overlooking the entire marina but also for its superb fare, featuring all the classics as well as a few unique fusion dishes.”

Melanie also suggested Fanadir Marina for a more sophisticated, peaceful setting, enabling guests to enjoy uninterrupted views of moored boats whilst dining. She also put forward Villa Caracas for traditional Lebanese cuisine, whilst its neighbour, Marzipan, offers “authentic Egyptian fare in abundant portions that are ideal for sharing”.

Another outstanding aspect of El Gouna is its proximity to Luxor. A day excursion here starts with an otherworldly journey through the desert and showcases some of Egypt’s most breathtaking monuments, including the colossal Karnak Temple and the Valley of the Kings, an ancient Royal burial ground from Egypt’s New Kingdom period.

For those choosing to spend the night in Luxor, an early morning hot air balloon ride offers a unique chance to spot many of the ancient landmarks, including the imposing mortuary temple of Hatshepsut. The stark contrast between the lush, cultivated fields along the Nile River and the surrounding desert and mountains is truly a sight to behold.

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Getting there

Travelling to El Gouna from the UK is simple. You’ll need to catch a flight to Hurghada (HRG) airport, with a flight time of around five hours.

British airlines fly to Hurghada from several UK airports, including Gatwick and Luton. Once there, it’s a 30-minute drive to El Gouna either by transfer or taxi.

Return flights in October start at around £147 per person, although this might change depending on the time of purchase. According to Booking.com, last-minute hotel bookings start at around £100 per night for highly-rated, five-star accommodation.

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Bargain Lapland dupes that kids will love as cost of Santa trips rockets

Eloise Barker, a writer for Responsible Travel, seeks out places to go when your kids have outgrown Lapland that are more affordable than the Finnish winter wonderland has become in recent years

Lapland, with its powdery snow, Northern Lights and Sámi culture, is popular for good reason, but its Santa Claus package holidays are pricey and book up fast: more and more people are visiting, some even taking extreme trips to visit for just one day.

Last year, we reported that the average price for a family holiday in Lapland from the UK was between £4,000 and £7,000.

But Europe is packed with winter wonderlands. You won’t find the big man in the red suit in these destinations – but you’ll still have a jolly good holiday…

Have you been on an amazing Christmas trip that you think Mirror readers would enjoy? We’d love to hear about it. Email [email protected]

Slovenia

All of Slovenia’s mountain resorts can be reached within 90 minutes from Ljubljana, its compact and pretty capital. There’s been almost €80 million of investment in infrastructure like ski lifts across multiple resorts, where you can also sled, snowshoe and go winter walking. The Post Office’s annual ski report noted that the cost of skiing in Slovenia’s Kranjska Gora resort had fallen 23.5% in the 2024/2025 season compared to the year before. Plus: the city of Celje transforms into a fairytale land in December, earning it the title ‘European City of Christmas 2025’.

  • The average price of a double room in Slovenia is £121/night (Kayak).
  • Direct flights from London to Ljubljana start at £29 in December; from Edinburgh, £76 (Skyscanner).

Slovakia

“Slovakia really is a very authentic, family-friendly winter destination and the High Tatras is still a hidden gem of Europe,” says Petr Ivanek, founder of Slovakia Explorer. “In comparison to the Alps or Lapland – British pounds go much further.”

There are thermal spas, water parks like Bešenova Aqua Park, and snowy High Tatras resorts, and the mountains are less crowded than at Zakopane on the Polish side of their slopes. Stop in Bratislava first: last year, the Post Office named Slovakia’s capital as Europe’s cheapest Christmas market destination.

  • The average price of a double room in Slovakia is £96/night (Kayak).
  • Direct flights from London to Bratislava in December start at £15; from Edinburgh, £26. Direct flights from London to Poprad start at £15 (Skyscanner).

Czech Republic

For all things Christmassy, consider the Czech Republic. Prices fell in the country last year, and Brno was voted European Capital of Christmas in 2024. Capital Prague remains a staple for Christmas markets and child-friendly activities, plus its public transport is free for children under 15. Fun fact: the Czech Republic has arguably the largest ice skating ‘rink’ in the world – at Lake Lipno, just outside the medieval fairytale town of Cesky Krumlov.

  • The average price of a double room in the Czech Republic is £111/night (Kayak).
  • Direct flights from London to Prague start at £26 in December; from Edinburgh, £42 (Skyscanner).

Romania

Swap the beaten track for wolf prints in the snow – in Transylvania, where villagers go Christmas carolling in traditional costume between beautifully decorated wooden houses.

You can ride about by horse-drawn sleigh or husky sled, and see atmospheric Brasov city and Bran Castle with beguiling snowy backdrops. Or switch the very old for the very new: an ice hotel, the only one in southeastern Europe, is built every year, 2,000m up in the Făgăraș Mountains.

  • The average price of a double room in Romania is £83/night (Kayak).
  • Direct flights from London to Brasov start at £56 in December (Skyscanner).

Bulgaria

“Two of Bulgaria’s national parks, Rila and Pirin, offer wonderful opportunities for winter holidays and for families interested in winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing,” says Anna Tuliyska at Sofia-based travel company Odysseia-In. The regions’ thermal springs also come into their own in cold weather. Whilst prices have risen in Bulgaria and may rise again when it adopts the euro in January 2026, the Post Office report ranked Bulgarian ski resorts among the cheapest in Europe in 2025.

  • The average price of a double room in Bulgaria is £101/night (Kayak).
  • Direct flights from London to Sofia start at £17 in December; from Edinburgh, £36 (Skyscanner).

Morocco

Morocco is not the baking hot destination you might expect in winter – average December temperatures are around 13°C, with highs in the 20s. Winter is an excellent time to take older kids to Morocco’s portion of the Sahara Desert.

Expect camel treks instead of husky rides, powdery sand not powdery snow, and sandboarding over snowboarding. Bolt on a stay in Marrakech for souks and stocking fillers – with the snowy peaks of the Atlas

Mountains framing the horizon. Prices drop in the winter months but can rise over Christmas.

  • The average price of a double room in Morocco is £180/night (Kayak).
  • Direct flights from London to Marrakech start at £15 in December; from Edinburgh, £31 (Skyscanner).

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Budget airline cuts 200,000 seats from its upcoming holidays as airline forecasts turbulence

Jet2 has said it will cut the number of seats available on its flights by around 200,000 in the coming months after the budget travel giant warned shareholders about earnings forecasts

Airline passengers disembark from a Jet2 aircraft
Shaky earnings predictions have seen Jet2 axe 200,000 flights over the coming months(Image: Bloomberg, Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Holidaymakers who rely on Jet2’s bargain fares will find fewer seats available in the coming months, after the budget airline received disappointing earnings projections.

The low-cost travel company is set to pull around 200,000 seats from the market over the next few months, leaving 5.6 million on offer during the winter period.

Whilst this still marks a nine per cent rise compared to last year, Jet2 has chosen to scale back its growth plans following predictions that the travel giant’s profits would fall short of expectations.

The news triggered a sharp decline in the company’s share price on Thursday, with analysts forecasting earnings of approximately £449m for the year ending March 2026, up from £446.5m the previous year. Stock values plummeted by roughly 13 per cent following the announcement.

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Jet2 Plc Operations Ahead Of Earnings
The stock market took the lower-than-expected forecast badly(Image: Getty)

Jet2 revealed that cost-conscious travellers are increasingly displaying a “later booking profile”, snapping up flights at short notice and leaving the airline with “limited visibility” over passenger numbers during the winter months when many seats remain “still to sell.”

The low-cost carrier witnessed package holiday reservations climb by 2 per cent over the summer, which ThisIsMoney reports as a decline from the eight per cent surge recorded last year.

Nevertheless, these statistics also highlight shifting consumer behaviour, with flight-only bookings soaring by a substantial 17 per cent.

Jet2 CEO Steve Heapy informed shareholders that the concerning figures stemmed from “operating in a difficult market,” though he emphasised that their expanding customer base would “provide the foundation for a solid financial result this year and for further profitable growth in the years to come.”

Steve Heapy
Jet2 chief executive Steve Heapy told shareholders they were “operating in a difficult market”(Image: Getty)

The budget airline, which conducted its annual general meeting on Thursday, revealed it had introduced a “modest increase” in package holiday prices this summer and noted it would be premature to release “definitive” figures regarding the company’s overall profitability.

Last month, Jet2 became the first carrier in Britain to provide complimentary plane tickets to certain passengers, aiming to make their service more accessible for additional customers. All families travelling with a child under the age of two will now avoid purchasing a ticket for their little one, whether booking a package holiday or an individual flight.

Russ Mould, investment director at AJ Bell, explained to ThisIsMoney: “Millions of people prioritise experiences over material goods, with foreign holidays high up the list of things they scrimp and save for. Such a trend should be positive for airlines and holiday companies, yet countless individuals are leaving it to the last minute to make a booking.

“Jet2 has once again bemoaned this situation, leaving it with cloudy rather than crystal clear earnings visibility. Management cannot keep their fingers crossed that sales will eventually come through; they need certainty given the expense in running a fleet of aircraft and a complex accommodation chain.

“Guidance that full-year earnings will be at the lower end of market forecasts has wiped out Jet2’s share price gains so far this year. It’s a disappointing setback for the business and has dragged down shares in other airlines including EasyJet and Wizz Air.”

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I take my family of four on holidays abroad for less than the cost of a UK staycation

I’m a family travel expert, mum of two and a lifelong bargain hunter who has made it my mission to prove you don’t need loads of money to have an unforgettable family holiday

Jen and her family pose for a picture at Europark
It’s often cheaper for my family of four to jet off abroad than to holiday right here in the UK

As a mum of two and a lifelong bargain hunter, I’ve made it my mission to prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to make unforgettable family memories. In fact, with a little flexibility and some clever planning, it’s often cheaper for my family of four to jet off abroad than to holiday right here in the UK.

While others are booking pricey cottages or UK resorts, I’m tracking flight deals, exploring European holiday parks, and uncovering little-known ways to stretch the family budget without compromising on fun. Because for us, holidays aren’t about luxury, they’re about connection, culture and quality time together.

Whether we’re eating street food in Greece or camping on the French coast, I’ve learned one universal truth: kids don’t care how much you’ve spent. They care that you’re there. And with that mindset, here’s how we make European getaways cheaper than a British break, and how you can too.

1. Rethink holiday parks abroad

Jen and her children at Port Aventura in Spain
Jen and her children at Port Aventura in Spain
Jen and her family at Glastonbury
If your kids can miss a day or two of school, departing just before the official break can save you hundreds(Image: Jen Carr)

Start by finding cheap flights from your nearest airport (you can use The Travel Mum website for this). Once you’ve landed a bargain flight, look for nearby holiday camps. Don’t be put off by the word camp, most offer mobile homes with air conditioning, pools, kids’ activities, arcades and more.

We’ve got a few lined up along the south of France this summer, and I’ll be sharing the trip on Instagram stories. These sites offer so much more than a basic UK caravan park, often for a fraction of the price.

2. Use last-minute holiday finders

If you’ve got nerves of steel, tools like TUI’s Last Minute Holiday Finder can land you incredible deals. Sure, planning in advance lets you spread the cost, but if you’re flexible on destination, you could bag a full-package break for less than a long weekend in Cornwall.

3. Try house-sitting

Want to travel without paying for accommodation? Housesitting could be your answer. We’ve stayed across Europe for free by looking after people’s homes and pets, from dogs and cats to house rabbits, lizards and even alpacas! It’s not for everyone, but it can save you hundreds if you’re happy to take on some light responsibilities while enjoying a local experience.

4. Travel before the school holidays start

If your kids can miss a day or two of school, departing just before the official break can save you hundreds. You won’t be fined for the odd day off, and this small shift can make a big difference to your budget.

5. Use the right cards abroad

A lot of people overlook this, but it’s a big one. Avoid transaction fees by using a travel debit or credit card. Many offer near-perfect exchange rates, which means more for your money. It’s one of those small swaps that makes a big impact over the course of a trip.

6. Sign up for deal alerts

Get ahead of the game by joining mailing lists (like The Travel Mum! ) to receive handpicked flight and holiday deals straight to your inbox. The best bargains often don’t last long, so it pays to be ready to act fast.

7. Final thoughts

Jen and her family in Italy
Jen and her family in Italy(Image: Jen Carr)

We’ve done luxury. We’ve done budget. And honestly? The best memories, the laughter, the adventures, the real moments, have almost always come from the simpler trips. So, if you’re weighing up a £1,200 weekend in Devon versus a £900 week in Spain with pools, sunshine, and new experiences? You know what I’ll be choosing. Travel smart, travel often, and don’t let the idea of “abroad” scare your wallet.

Jen Carr AKA @thetravelmum is a family travel expert and founder of The Travel Mum, where she shares the best affordable holiday deals for families throughout the week. https://thetravelmum.com/family-holiday-deals/



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Man visits one-star Miami hotel and can’t believe what a bargain it is

Miami attracts visitors travelling for business and pleasure alike, so it can be expensive to book accommodation. One man chose to try one of the city’s cheaper hotels and shared his verdict

Man entering hotel room (stock photo)
A man shared his experience staying at a one-star hotel in Miami (stock photo)(Image: StefaNikolic via Getty Images)

Choosing your accommodation is an important part of planning any trip, whether it’s for a holiday or business. Some travellers prefer the luxury of high-end hotels, while others on a budget might opt for self-catering flats or hostels.

A man wanting to save money during his trip to South Beach, Miami, chose a one-star hotel to show you don’t need to spend big for a good stay. Simon Wilson, a travel vlogger best known for his YouTube videos, posted a TikTok video giving a tour of the hotel – but what caught people’s attention the most was the cost. After arriving at the check-in desk, Simon, originally from the UK, was told that a room would cost him $149 (£109.78) for one night, plus $35.86 (£26.42) tax and a $50 (£36.84) refundable deposit.

He asked the receptionist if the hotel offered any amenities or services – such as a sauna or swimming pool, breakfast in the morning, or even coffee – but he was told no.

However, Simon was glad to discover there was air conditioning in his room, given the “very hot” weather. After settling his bill, the travel content creator made his way down the hallway to find his room.

“I have got no idea what to expect here,” he said as he approached the door. Simon then entered the room and offered his initial reaction. “This isn’t too bad,” he said.

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He proceeded to give a tour, showing off a “lovely dining table with one chair,” a double bed flanked by two bedside cabinets, a TV mounted on the wall, and an empty fridge that was switched off.

Simon mused: “I need to inspect the bed but what’s the view out of this window?” Observing the scenery, he commented: “Got a lovely car park down there then I’m guessing this is another hotel and they’re the rooms there. I’ve had a lot worse views than that.”

He went on to check the wardrobe, finding an extra blanket, safe, and iron, and noted that based on his observations, the harsh reviews about the hotel didn’t hold up.

Then, in the bathroom, he spotted “two clean towels,” along with a shower, a “fairly clean” bath, a sink complete with soap, and a toilet, later finding several more towels.

The Brit remarked: “So far, I’ve seen nothing wrong with this and it was $185, so that is a lot for a one star.”

However, there was one feature that Simon really wanted to ensure the hotel got right. “The main thing, and the most important thing, though, is the bed.”

On inspection, he was pleased to discover pillows that appeared “ok” and a clean bed sheet.

Sharing his final verdict, Simon asserted that price really was the most important feature. He said: “I think we might have just had a bargain in South Beach, Miami.”

Known for its stunning beach, the area is popular with tourists looking for lively nights out, luxury accommodation, and exquisite dining by celebrated chefs.

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Dodge rip-off resorts and unearth bargain holiday spots with our interactive map

The pound has strengthened against most currencies in the last year, giving families more spending power if they’re heading overseas. Make sure you’re heading to one that offers good deals

Nearly eight out of 10 people in a survey say they are put off holidaying in America because of tariff-triggered price rises
New York will cost you(Image: Getty)

The world’s biggest rip-off destinations and those bucketlist spots perfect for a bargain break have been revealed.

When it comes to holidays, nothing sours the poolside mojito quicker than the feeling that your cash is disappearing too quickly.

Thankfully, the Post Office has looked into where in the world the British pound delivers the most value for money this year. We’ve put the biggest bargain cities and outrageous rip-offs resorts on an interactive map, so you can book armed with all of the facts.

If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck, then head to the Algarve.

The Portugese coastal resort is a huge favourite with Brits, who take advantage of cheap, regular flights from across the UK to flock to the southern region en-masse each summer.

It’s basket of holiday goodies cost £58.95, 1.6 per cent less than in 2024. This is due to the rock-bottom cost of meals and drinks. The average cost of a three-course meal for two with wine in Albufeira weighed in at £40.33 – the lowest recorded across the 47 destinations surveyed (figure 9) and one third the cost in New York (£128.27).

The Algarve is one of 19 resorts or cities that got cheaper this year than last, according to Post Office research. Others to do so include Delhi, India; Phuket, Thailand; Spain’s Costa del Sol and Prague in the Czech Republic.

If you’re keen to stay in Europe, then Prague is a good bet. Far more than just stag-dos and strip clubs, the former Soviet city is enriched by a huge amount of history, art, and music.

The Czech capital’s basket of holiday goods cost £75.92 this year, a significant price fall of over 20 per cent compared to 2024.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the biggest deals can be found a little further away from the UK, although bargain-hungry holidaymakers will have to factor in the cost of getting to these destinations when choosing where to go.

An Algarve beach
The Algarve came out on top

Cape Town in South Africa is the second cheapest destination looked at this year, with a basket of essentials costing £59.84. This is a great destination for Southern Hemisphere wine buffs as a glass of grape costs just £2.07; a fifth of the price it’ll set you back in New York.

Japan’s capital city, Tokyo, has been massively popular with Brits over the past year, thanks to the very favourable exchange rate.

A glass of wine and a bottle of beer can be purchased there for the equivalent of just over a fiver.

One destination to keep an eye on is Delhi. At £69.52, prices in the Indian city have dropped 10.7 per cent. Although alcohol prices there are a little on the steep side, soft drinks, water and food won’t lighten your wallet too much.

At the other end of the scale, New York is the most expensive of 47 destinations surveyed, with a barometer total of £167.85 – a rise of 15.6 per cent year-on-year. Not only will you have to spend upwards of £7 for a beer in the Big Apple, you’ll be expected to tip generously on top of that.

The eye-watering continues in Hawaii, the second most expensive destination on the list and the home of £9.18 insect repellent, and in Nice, France. Head to the French city, and you’ll find yourself being stingy with the suncream, as a bottle costs close to £17.

Brits head to Turkey and elsewhere this summer are winners from exchange rates changes
Marmaris offered mid-tier bang for buck(Image: Getty Images)

While the world has been in turmoil since Donald Trump returned to the White House (and perhaps was before), sterling remains strong against many other currencies.

Over three-quarters of Post Office’s top 30 currencies – including the euro and most other European currencies – have

weakened since last March. This could provide holidaymakers with a big incentive to choose destinations where sterling will provide more ‘bang for their buck.

Appetite for traveling remains high and is growing. Three-in-five (60 per cent) of Brits surveyed about their holiday plans for the coming year told Post Office Travel Money that they will be travelling abroad – up from 51 per cent who were asked the same question a year ago.

Almost three-quarters (73 per cent) of them will holiday in Europe and most (95 per cent) will be making a repeat journey to a European destination.

Although a big majority are planning to get away this year, most share a desire to keep things as cheap and cheerful as possible.

Travelling away from busy periods is regarded as the best way to make travelling abroad more affordable, with two-in-five holidaymakers prepared to swap peak season travel for cheaper times of the year.

More than a quarter of those questioned say they will book cheaper accommodation (27 per cent), take fewer holidays (27 per cent) or go to a destination that costs less (26 per cent).

Do you have a story to tell us? Email us at [email protected]

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