Save money

People hoping for a great holiday deal might be tempted to book their flights on a Tuesday, but this once beloved travel tip could be outdated.

Travel expert James Steele at Go2Africa highlighted the misconception that booking flights on a Tuesday could save you money.

Airlines reportedly release discounted fares on Tuesdays – and pricing algorithms were thought to reset every week.

Although this may have been true in the past, James said fares are now “adjusted dynamically with algorithms that look at demand, popularity of the route, and remaining seats”.

Flight deals no longer hinge on what day you are browsing; “flights that look cheap on Tuesday could be even cheaper on Friday,” said James.

Instead, James recommended using price trackers, such as Skyscanner and Google Flights, and pointed out that flexibility on dates could secure you a better deal.

And while the flight hack has been disputed, there are other travel tips that may no longer be valid; here, James unveiled five of the most common travel hacks that you’re better off ignoring – and what to do instead.

He said: “Not every hack works perfectly, and believing them all could make your trip more stressful, make you spend more than you need to, or could even be dangerous.”

1. HACK: ONLY BOOK THE CHEAPEST OR EARLIEST FLIGHTS

James revealed that people will choose the cheapest or earliest flight they can get, in a bid to get what they think is the best option. But he stated that while this might save you some money, it can come with hidden costs that make it less than viable.

He said: “Not only can the cheapest flights come with additional charges, for things like luggage and choosing your seats, that make it more expensive than flights you’ve not considered, they depart at inconvenient times.

“This means waking up in the middle of the night, sacrificing sleep, and spending the first days of your trip exhausted, or wasting your last day by having to get to the airport early.”

What he urges you to do instead: Don’t just think about money when you are booking your flights. There are other options to save money on your trip, so consider prioritising convenience, sleep, and logistics, such as getting to the airport and hotel check-in times, instead. Taking a more holistic approach rather than penny pinching will help you have a more enjoyable holiday.

2. HACK: SAVE MONEY BY NOT BOTHERING WITH TRAVEL INSURANCE

Skipping travel insurance might seem like a simple way to save money, but in reality it can be extremely risky, and end up costing you even more if you get stuck or in trouble.

James added: “From missed flights and lost luggage to unexpected medical emergencies, there are unfortunately many things that can go wrong on your trip that could cost you hundreds, or even thousands, and these costs could be avoided by being insured.”

What he urges you to do instead : Compare insurance providers to get the best prices, and look for coverage that fits your needs and your trip, rather than always choosing the cheapest. This routine ensures you’re covered for what you actually need, and you’re not paying for what you don’t.

3. HACK: STICK TO A STRICT ITINERARY

Travel can be unpredictable. Attractions you’ve been looking forward to seeing can unexpectedly close, weather can change which could mean you can’t go to the beach, and restaurants you saw online can become fully booked.

It’s natural to want to see everything, and not want to feel like you’re wasting any time, but planning every minute of each day of your trip can have its downsides.

James said: “Whether you’re going on a long weekend to Italy or a two week safari in Africa, being too strict with your plans can not only lead to travel burnout, but it can also mean you miss out on spontaneity, hidden gems that aren’t in the guide books, and time to actually relax to enjoy your time away.”

What he urges you to do instead: Make a list of things you must see, but avoid scheduling things back to back so you don’t become tired or rushed. Think about how much time you’ll need to truly appreciate each activity, and leave free time throughout your trip to allow you to relax and explore.

4. HACK: ONLY USE CASH TO CONTROL YOUR BUDGET

Travellers often think that only using cash can help them control their budget. Studies have shown that using a credit card “reduces the pain of payment” and increases the motivation to spend. Saving a fixed amount of money for each day also means you could avoid overspending, but only having cash can be risky, and may not actually save consumers any money.

James offered: “If you run out, you might have to pay additional fees to withdraw more, or could simply miss out on experiences that you can afford, but don’t have the cash to pay for. Having only cash can give you a false sense of frugality, and can lead to you spending money unnecessarily because you don’t want to miss out due to exchange rates when you get home.

“As well as not saving money, only carrying cash means you are more at risk of loss of theft. If you lose your wallet, or it is stolen, you lose your entire travel budget – and a lost card can be easily frozen, unlike lost cash.”

What he urges you to do instead: Make a budget before you travel, but give yourself some room for unexpected purchases and experiences. Bring some local currency for convenience, and things like tips or local markets that don’t accept card. But, don’t rely on it solely as using a combination of cash and card reduces your risk and unnecessary fees. It also provides you with both flexibility and control of your spending.

5. HACK: ROLL ALL OF YOUR CLOTHES TO SAVE SPACE SUITCASE SPACE

The “roll method” has been viral for a long time as the perfect way to pack to maximise space in your suitcase by rolling up everything and placing it in your luggage. However, while it’s perfect for lightweight items like T-shirts, it doesn’t work for bulkier items like jeans and jackets.The process can actually take up more space if it isn’t done correctly, and you can even end up accidentally going over your luggage allowance which will potentially cause problems or cost more money on your travels.

What James urges you to do instead: Roll selectively, folding heavier things and layering them at the bottom. Don’t forget about the space inside shoes that can be filled with small items, so the space isn’t wasted. Don’t pack things “just in case”. Plan full outfits, making sure you can mix and match to avoid taking too much. Dress according to the environment and climate that you are going to be holidaying in while assessing your comfort level on flights regarding the clothing you will wear in transit.

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.”

A visit to Lapland to see Father Christmas is just a pipedream for most people, with a short stay generally costing thousands – but there is a far cheaper way to experience the magic of the snowy wonderland without breaking the bank

Whether you want to admit it or not, Christmas really is on its way and it will be here sooner than you think.

Your flip flops may still be lingering redundant at the front door in the hope of some warm autumn sun but they’ll be joined by hats and scarfs very soon, which you’ll be throwing on to rush out and get those last minute Xmas gifts.

If you’ve always hoped one of them would be to take the kids (or just yourself) to Lapland to see the big fella in his homeland, but never believed you could afford it – there is a much less costly way to make those childhood festive dreams of a trip of a lifetime come true.

The Santa Village and the Arctic Circle in Northern Finland is where Santa has lived for centuries and is a top destination for those in search of the all round festive experience. The village in Rovaniemi is open every day of the year but many prefer to go during the Christmas period.

We took a look at costs for a family of four to stay at the village itself for two nights during December and it’s fair to say most families would be priced out.

The family suite (double bed and a sofa bed and armchair bed) was the only option available with the cheaper cottages having sold out. It came in at around £1,683 for both nights.

For anyone who wants to splash out even more there is a villa which can be rented in its entirety or it’s also possible to rent half of it as an apartment. The smaller of the two apartments comes in at just over £13,000 in total for four people staying two nights on December 15 and 16.

Admittedly the accommodation appears to be the height of luxury and includes breakfast. There’s even the option of a private chef preparing it for you for £262 extra per morning if you can’t be bothered to pop your bread in the toaster yourself.

Father Christmas himself will even make a VIP private visit to the apartment for around 30 minutes but he doesn’t come cheap either, he’s a busy man after all. You’ll have to fork out around £778 if you want Santa on your sofa.

Return flights with Syscanner from London Gatwick to Rovaniemi on 15 December – 17 December come in around £862 in total for reasonable times but still won’t land until 18.10 on the first night. Obviously you’ll pay more for kinder flight times that don’t involve getting up or home in the middle of the night.

If you went for the cheaper option for flights and accommodation you would be looking at a total cost of £2,545 or £13,862 for the high end apartment. These estimates DON’T include travel to and from the airport or the cost of any meals, refreshments or added extras such as husky or reindeer sled rides (the luxury apartment includes breakfast).

However those wishing there was a cheaper way to enjoy the winter wonderland, could consider arranging alternative accommodation and adding in an extra festive experience that will also save money. It is generally cheaper to fly to Helsinki from the UK. We found an early morning flight leaving Gatwick for £218 in total for four passengers on the same date, again via Skyscanner.

Once there you can pick up the overnight Santa Express (sadly he doesn’t actually drive the double decker train), which runs from Helsinki to snow-capped Lapland in the north.

The journey takes approximately 12 hours which means you can really relish the beauty of the Finnish landscape as you head towards Father Christmas. If you’re lucky you may even get to marvel at the natural stunning phenomena of the Northern Lights which are often visible here before being rocked off to sleep, waking up in the Arctic Circle the next morning.

This option combines travel and the first night’s accommodation in one, making it so much cheaper all round. Standard sleeper cabins start from £43 and cabins with showers start from £65. It is advised to book early and directly through the Finnish national rail company VR.

Recent travellers on the Santa Express have shared their experiences on Tripadvisor, where the train has a 4.2 rating: “This overnight train ride was a fun and unique way for our family to travel to Lapland. It added to the excitement of our trip and gave us a chance to relax before arriving in Rovaniemi,” one wrote. “We would recommend it to families looking for an authentic Finnish travel experience.”

Another family were also pleasantly surprised: “The rooms/cabins exceeded our expectations. Admittedly, we had concerns about selecting this mode of transport between Helsinki and Rovaniemi but we were looking forward to a new experience. It really did help establish a festive feeling as we embarked on our first trip to Lapland,” they shared.

Once you arrive in Rovaniemi you can head straight to the Santa Village, where entry is free. There’s not even a charge to meet the man himself in his big red house but prepare for queues at busy periods. Added extras such as a picture with him will come with a price tag though.

The Arctic Circle runs through the village and you can cross it in the central square – again totally free. Make some lifelong memories by taking your own pictures of the family jumping or hopping across the line in the sparkly surroundings.

There are plenty of other activities in the village, such as husky rides and snowmobile safaris but for those on a tight budget there’s lots of fun to be had simply soaking up the frozen landscape’s atmosphere after a special meet with Santa.

Once your day in the village is over, rather than staying on site, it’s possible to find much cheaper alternatives in Rovaniemi itself. We found an entire studio apartment on booking.com just 0.6 miles from the city centre for £260 for the whole family. After a restful night full of festive dreams, you can catch a flight back to Gatwick from nearby Rovaniemi airport. We found one with Skyscanner for £392.

Below are the totals for both Lapland trips and the savings that could be made. Estimates are for a family of four staying two nights between 15 – 17 December. Neither includes meals, refreshments or extras. Prices were correct at the time of writing:

Total for the Santa Village suite (cheaper of the two): £2,545

Total estimate for the alternative Lapland package using the Santa Express: £956

Saving of: £1,589

Travel blogger Jen Carr took her kids to France instead of Cornwall for less than half the price it would have cost to holiday in the UK. This is exactly how she did it

When planning a half-term break, Cornwall tops the list for its beautiful beaches, cosy cottages and a holiday without the airport stress – but it’s not cheap.

Travel blogger and mum Jen says she recently took her family to France after pricing up Cornwall and realising it was more expensive than going on holiday abroad.

“We recently priced up a summer break – a week in a two-bedroom caravan in a holiday park in Cornwall came in at £2,100,” she says. “And that’s before adding petrol, meals out, and activities!

“For the exact same dates as that caravan in Cornwall, we found a week at a French holiday camp for under £1,000 – literally half the price. More sunshine, better facilities, more fun – and for less money.”

The money she saved on the campsite went towards flights and car hire. But it wasn’t just accommodation costs where she managed to save money. The blogger, who runs The Travel Mum, has revealed other ways people can save some serious cash.

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Petrol vs flights

“Driving from where we live to Cornwall takes seven hours each way and, with fuel prices as they are, would’ve cost us around £120 just in petrol. (Plus 14 hours of hell in the car with the kids…)

“We found flights to the French Riviera for under £500 for four people. You can get flights to Paris for even less, currently around £350 for four people in August. If you can travel light you save a fortune by not adding a big check in luggage.”

Holiday camp hack

“The South of France has absolutely mastered the art of the family holiday camp. Think pools, huge playgrounds, kids’ clubs packed with activities, and evening entertainment that keeps everyone happy.

:And the best part? For the exact same dates as that caravan in Cornwall, we found a week at a French holiday camp for under £1,000 – literally half the price. More sunshine, better facilities, more fun… for less money.”

Eating out costs less

“In Cornwall, we’ve spent £60+ on a family pub lunch without even trying. In France, we were eating out in little village restaurants for €35-€40 total – three courses, bread, and a glass of wine included.

“Supermarkets are much cheaper too. We stocked up on fresh baguettes, cheese, and fruit for picnics and spent much less than we would on a similar supermarket shop in the UK.”

Car hire ‘dream’

“This one’s less about saving money and more about saving your sanity. If you’ve ever braved Cornwall in peak season, you’ll know the chaos of narrow lanes, endless queues, and half the UK heading there at once.

“In contrast, driving in France is a dream – wide, quiet roads, smooth journeys, and far less stress. Plus, car hire is surprisingly affordable if you book in advance, making it an easy win for both comfort and convenience.”

The bottom line

“Everyone assumes UK staycations are going to be cheaper than going abroad, but that isn’t always the case. When you add up flights, accommodation, eating out, and activities, France actually cost us less – and let us explore a whole new area of the world.

“Our holiday in France could have been even cheaper too! The French Riviera isn’t known for being the cheapest part of the country, but we have always wanted to visit.

“Would we swap Cornwall for France again next half-term? Absolutely. Next time, we’re eyeing up Brittany, the Atlantic coast and even Corsica! Sometimes, going abroad really is the budget option.”

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The ‘pillowcase hack’ has been a popular way for travellers to avoid paying for checked luggage – but experts have warned that airlines are now ‘cracking down’ on the trick

If you’re looking to save a few quid on your upcoming holiday, chances are you’re flying with hand luggage only. As any seasoned traveller knows, cramming all your essentials into a small suitcase can be a right faff.

However, there are always those who try to bend the rules. One such method is known as the ‘pillowcase hack’.

This involves stuffing an empty pillowcase full of clothes and taking it on board your flight along with your bag.

Airlines can slap passengers with a £75 fee for travelling with an oversized carry-on bag, meaning travellers could end up shelling out £150 for a return journey due to overpacking.

In response to this, travel experts at Netflights have shed light on whether passengers should risk trying the pillowcase hack, and why cramming your clothes into a pillowcase could save you hundreds if you’re a frequent flyer, reports the Express.

Amanda Parker from Netflights has issued a warning to travellers that, despite numerous success stories, the pillowcase hack isn’t always a surefire win.

“Airlines are cracking down on sneaky flight hacks, so you might want to think twice about testing this hack on your next flight.

“An overly stuffed pillowcase bursting with clothes can raise suspicion, and if you’re already boarding the plane with maximum baggage, then your pillow can be flagged as extra.

“What works for one airline or crew might be refused by another, as different airlines’ cabin baggage rules vary.

“By risking the pillowcase hack, you could risk holding up the boarding process or being denied boarding entirely if you can’t pay the fee.

“Some low-cost airlines state that any item used to carry belongings, even if disguised, must be treated as luggage.

“Before jetting off, always check the baggage allowance rules to ensure you’ll be boarding your flight with the correct baggage and belongings.”

With rooms starting at less than £180, mum of two Hannah Britt reveals how this under the radar Balearic hotel should be firmly on your bucket list

As a family who love to travel, when I find a good deal I just have to share it. And this is one I simply cannot keep to myself. Mallorca is super popular with Brits, we flock there in our thousands year on year. With good reason, of course – it’s gorgeous, the beaches are flawless and there are plenty of things to do for all ages from water parks to markets to nightlife. There are hotels catering to all tastes too. But it’s the Hilton Mallorca Galatzo I’m going to talk about today. Because you need to add it to your family holiday bucket list right now…

DEALS TO BE HAD

Let’s start with the price, shall we? Rooms at the HMG start from just €207 per night, which works out at just less than £180. For that you get a Superior Lateral Sea View room, which comes with a king bed, room for a cot, floor-to-ceiling windows and a Balearic style design.

A recent revamp has seen decor throughout the accommodation updated and it’s all very swish indeed – modern, stylish, super clean and well considered. All rooms have a balcony with some variation of a sea view.

MEGA LOCATION

The Hilton Mallorca Galatzo is ideally located for exploration and ease. 20 minutes by car gets you to the airport, or to Palma de Mallorca for a day of shopping or sightseeing. The hotel is sat atop a hill with a gorgeous view looking down over Costa de la Calma, and a complimentary daily shuttle takes guests down to the beaches and eateries below. Taxis are easy to summon too, and cost just a few Euros to do the same.

The marinas of Andratz and Puerto Portals and the beaches of Peguera are a must. Or, for the intrepid, white sands, hiking trails and Insta-worthy landscape moments are less than 2km away on foot.

PLENTY TO DO ON SITE

If you fancy wiling away a day at the hotel, there’s lots to keep the whole family busy, with an indoor pool, outdoor pool, spa and tennis facilities to enjoy. The pool area was particularly lovely from a family point of view as there was a large shallow area, plus a fenced off baby pool. Towering palm and pine trees provided much welcomed dappled shade throughout the day.

There’s a beautifully bright and well-equipped kids’ club too, which offers fun for 4 to 14 year olds and provides games, crafting, soft play and more.

DELICIOUS FOOD

Breakfast at La Cocina is busy but ordered, with lots of choice from porridge and cereals to fruit, baked treats and full-English options like eggs, sausage, bacon and beans. Freshly made pancakes and omelettes were a nice touch and very popular, especially with my children. The same restaurant does a popular buffet for dinner too.

Elsewhere, the Alma bar was comfy and chic, serving ice cold cava and tasty tapas – the garlic prawns, padron peppers and iberico ham were delightful. There was a children’s menu too, and the staff couldn’t have been more welcoming.

But my favourite eatery at HMG was the Paradis Pool Bar. The food was really good here, with mouthwatering poke bowls and pizza to munch. Cocktails, too, were moreish and well made.

Open All Hours was one of the BBC’s most enduring and fondly remembered comedies of its era – and now Sir David Jason is returning to play Granville one last time

Sir David Jason is returning to play Granville for a final time in an Open All Hours TV Special. The new U&GOLD programme sees him closing the shop for the night while offering a touching glimpse into how his life has moved on since we last saw the BBC sitcom character.

Open All Hours: Inside Out will be a 90 minute feature-length retrospective that celebrates one of Britain’s most beloved sitcoms and also includes a brand-new short scene, penned by original writer Roy Clarke. Sir David, 85, said: “It’s so good to be back! I played Granville for over half my life and so this show holds a very special place in my heart.

“There are countless memories and stories about this show, and I am thrilled to be able to share those with everyone.”

Corner-shop comedy Open All Hours first hit TV screens back in 1973 on the BBC with a one-off pilot, before it became a full series in 1976. The sitcom went on to run for four series until 1985, becoming one of the BBC’s most enduring and fondly remembered comedies of its era.

The comedy starred the legendary Ronnie Barker as Arkwright, a penny-pinching, stammering shopkeeper who’d do almost anything to save money.

At his side was a then-rising star in David Jason, who played his long-suffering nephew and assistant Granville. Together, the pair brought to life the quirks, chaos and cheekiness of running a small shop, with regular customers and neighbours popping in to add to the storylines.

The heart of the comedy lay in Arkwright’s obsession with Nurse Gladys Emmanuel, played by Lynda Baron, whose sharp wit and warmth provided a perfect foil to his penny-pinching schemes.

Although the sitcom only produced 26 episodes in total, its popularity never faded. Reruns on the BBC and later UKTV Gold introduced it to new generations.

2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the classic comedy, with Sir David Jason being the only actor to have starred in every episode of the original series, and the re-boot, Still Open All Hours. Sir David will discuss his personal journey on the show, revealing exclusive behind-the-scenes moments as well as some of his fondest memories from his time playing grocer, Granville.

Sir David will also be joined by some of his fellow cast who lift the lid on their experiences and celebrate one of the most iconic comedies of all time.

Senior Commissioning Editor, Mark Iddon said: “I can’t wait for U&Gold audiences to see what we have cooked up for them. Open All Hours is one of those rare beasts that even after 50 years is still as timeless and relevant as ever.”

Director of Programming Gerald Casey said: “Open All Hours is a classic, and part of our DNA here at U&Gold. We are thrilled to be able to give viewers more of what they love with Sir David Jason lifting the lid on some of his fondest memories on set alongside fellow cast members.”

The sitcom was so popular that the BBC revived it in 2013 with Still Open All Hours , once again fronted by David Jason, this time taking over the shop himself.

That spin-off ran for six series and speaking last year Jason admitted he would like the chance to revisit the show as a final series remains unmade and the storyline unfinished.

Asked if it is ever going to be finished, David said in 2024: “That would be wonderful, but you’d have to get in touch with Mr. BBC about that. The script is written by Roy Clark. It’s there and all it needs is the BBC to commission it and everybody that was in the original in the series was up for doing the last series because everybody thought it would be nice to the sew up the parcel, the one that Granville gets married to Wavy Mavy(Mavis), which we haven’t done, but that is what it’s about. Finally he makes an honest woman of her.”

Asked if it will happen, he added: “I’d like to think so, yes, but because the gap is getting longer without a commission… You can’t commission it and do it next week. You have to put all the bits together. That takes a lot of time putting that together. So the longer you don’t commission something, the more you get in trouble pushing it away.”

The new special and extra scene may be his way of saying goodbye to the show now instead.

Sir David credits Open All Hours co-star Ronnie Barker for some of his success on screen.

He said: “Ronnie wasn’t aware of the influence that he was having on me and I kept it quiet, as you do. But was an amazing influence and one of the big things that I tried to emphasise in the book was he was one of the kindest, nicest actors to work with. Most of them are, to be honest, but Ronnie was special.” The original Open All Hours was set in a grocer’s shop in South Yorkshire. The owner, Albert Arkwright was played by Ronnie Barker and was a middle-aged man who was tight with his money but also had a knack for selling. His nephew Granville was played by David Jason) and was a put-upon errand boy lacking a social life because of the amount of work his uncle gave him.

* Open All Hours: Inside Out is in production now and will air on U&GOLD in 2026.

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One person determined to get away despite the cost is Lauren Wright. The 20-year-old from Essex started working at 15 purely to fund her travels, juggling several jobs at the same time

A woman worked five jobs to save up to travel the world.

Going on holiday is not cheap. Research commissioned by travel insurance provider Staysure showed that families have had to slash their holiday budgets by an average of £941 in recent years, with the cost of a holiday now just over £2,800. As a result, 44% are now more likely to opt for a staycation than a trip abroad.

The desire to travel is still incredibly strong despite the costs going up. Holiday bookings have risen by about 10% in the UK this year, according to the Advantage Travel Partnership, despite overall growth hanging around close to zero.

One person determined to get away despite the cost is Lauren Wright. The 20-year-old from Essex started working at 15 purely to fund her travels.

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“I am very fortunate to have such supportive and loving parents who made my saving process easier than most. I had very minimal outgoings, and therefore, every penny I made, I was able to save for my trip. I reached out to friends who had taken very similar trips and asked how much they had saved, setting myself a goal of around £14,000 as I never wanted to run out of money or feel like I couldn’t participate in a once-in-a-lifetime activity while I was away. I have always been good at saving my money, saving more than spending, from the time I started working at 15,” Lauren told Omeo.

“I combined the money I had been saving since the age of 15 with the money I made during the six months I spent working various jobs, in order to make sure I had the money I needed in the pot. I worked as a lifeguard, duty manager, team leader, receptionist and recreational assistant in various roles, most of them being zero-hour contracts, which allowed me to work as much or as little as I wanted. I jam-packed those six months, sometimes working 60-hour weeks and 18-hour shifts, going straight from one job to another throughout the day.”

Saving to travel didn’t come without sacrifices, either. Lauren cut back on a number of things she considered luxuries in order to keep her savings pot growing.

“I stopped eating out as much, reduced the amount of takeout coffee I would buy whilst out and about and started making more at home to save money. I also reduced the number of pub trips I went on with friends. Most importantly, I stopped all unessential shopping unless I was buying something that I was going to be able to take on my travels,” she continued.

Lauren’s best advice for those wanting to save money to travel the world is to research other people’s journeys on social media, especially TikTok.

“I did a lot of TikTok research, watching videos on how much money people spent per location and for their entire trip. I used all these figures to set a budget for myself. I budgeted around £30 a day while I was in the more ‘budget-friendly’ countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia and Laos. This £30 a day would include my hostel or hotel, food, activities and basic fees such as my SIM card and laundry. I had a separate budget for activities, which was definitely needed to make the most of my trip,” Lauren added.

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“In the more expensive countries like Singapore, Indonesia, New Zealand and Australia, I would attempt to budget by seeing how much I was spending daily and trying to stick to that average, like £60 a day, which also included accommodation, which was much more expensive in these countries. I also didn’t eat out as much in Australia and New Zealand, and often opted for grocery shopping and cooking in the hostel’s kitchen.

Thanks to her savvy saving, Lauren has managed to visit many countries around the world.

“I have backpacked to Dubai, the Philippines, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand, as well as being lucky enough to travel a huge chunk of Europe, too. I initially started travelling with my boyfriend, but we broke up on the trip, causing me to travel solo, which taught me so many lessons and helped me to meet amazing people I may not have met otherwise. I wouldn’t change my travels for the world, and I can’t wait to see even more of the world as I continue to grow,” she said.

Apple TV+ has implemented an 11% price rise but there are ways to watch hit shows like Severance, Slow Horses and The Morning Show for less.

Apple TV+ has quietly increased the price of a monthly subscription, but there are several ways to get it cheaper if you know where to look. Last month, the streamer upped its subscription fee £8.99 to £9.99 for both new and existing customers.

This 11% rise may not seem like a huge increase, but it makes Apple TV+ one of the more expensive platforms compared to the basic subscription tiers of Netflix (£5.99), Disney+ (£4.99) and Prime Video (£8.99). However, each of these plans has adverts, while Apple TV+ is ad-free.

Apple told the BBC that while the new price applies immediately for new users, existing subscribers have until 30 days after their next renewal before they start paying more. It comes as Apple TV+ is gearing up for the return of hit shows including The Morning Show (September 17) and Slow Horses (September 24).

Also on its 2025 slate is Matthew McConaughey survival drama The Lost Bus (October 3) and Pluribus (November 7), a new sci-fi series from Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan. With this in mind, we’ve pulled together several ways to get an Apple TV+ subscription for less.

Watch for free with a seven-day trial

New Apple TV+ members can watch everything on the platform without paying a penny by signing up for a seven-day free trial. This is ideal for those only wanting to watch a particular series as it allows members to binge every episode in one week, just remember to cancel the trial before it moves to a paid subscription.

However, there is a way to reduce the cost for those happy to stick with the service.

Apple TV+ Annual Plan

£119.88

£89

Apple TV+

Get Apple TV+ here

Apple TV+ members can save £30.88 by paying for a year up front.

Save £31 with an annual plan

Members who have no intention of cancelling their subscription anytime soon may want to consider an Apple TV+ annual plan. Paying for a year’s access up front has not increased so still costs the usual £89, while 12 monthly payments will now end up costing £119.88 on the new rate.

This means those who are loyal to Apple TV+ can save £30.88 if they’re happy to make the commitment.

Get 3 months free with an eligible device

Apple offers three months of Apple TV+ access to shoppers buying an eligible Apple device including iPhones, iPads and MacBooks. They don’t have to be bought from Apple, with new devices bought from retailers including Sky Mobile and Amazon usually eligible for the deal.

One of our favourite options at the moment is Sky Mobile’s iPhone 16e deal, which is down to a record low price of £18 when spreading the cost. The catch with this plan is that it only comes with 100MB of data, but larger allowances are available for those happy to pay a little more.

Sky also offers the new MacBook Air 13” M4 for £20. Other options include Amazon’s £101 discount on an iPhone 16 for £698, or £70 discount on the latest iPad Air M3 for £529.

Save 44% with Apple One

This option is ideal for customers subscribed to multiple Apple services such as Apple TV+, Apple Music and iCloud. An Apple One bundle rolls all of these into one monthly subscription offering discounts up to £28.99 per month compared to paying for each service separately – a saving of 44%.

A subscription can also be shared by up to five people on select plans, perfect for cutting costs for the whole family. Apple One comes in a choice of three plans:

• Individual (£18.95) – TV+, Music, Arcade, iCloud+ 50GB.
• Family (£24.95) – TV+, Music, Arcade, iCloud+ 200GB.
• Premier (£36.95) – TV+, Music, Arcade, iCloud+ 2TB, Fitness+ and News+.

Travel expert Maisie Blewitt explains whether or not booking a flight on a Tuesday is actually cheaper and shares her take on the most common holiday booking hacks

Booking a holiday on a certain day of the week can be significantly cheaper – at least that’s the rumour. A travel expert is divulging whether or not there’s any truth to this old booking myth, and if so, what day really is the best for securing a deal.

Clearing your browsing history, flying on a Sunday, booking on a Tuesday – there’s a lot of debate about how to be a savvy holiday planner. But Maisie Blewitt, travel expert and head of commercial at Transfer Travel, has weighed in to set the record straight on the best tips and tricks.

For one, Maisie says it’s not always cheaper to book your flights on a Tuesday, it’s really just an “urban myth”. She explains: “There’s no consistent evidence to prove that airlines reduce flight prices on a Tuesday.” This comes after a Brit abroad slams all-inclusive hotel food asking ‘what on earth is this?’

“Airlines typically follow a dynamic pricing schedule; this will influence pricing in relation to demand – not days of the week”, she added. However, she says there is some benefit to booking your flight earlier in the week.

READ MORE: Wizz Air launches budget £20 flights to ‘Maldives of Europe’READ MORE: Ryanair claims ‘your next trip just got cheaper’ as airline makes announcement

Maisie explains that historical Skyscanner data indicates that some airlines launch sales and deals on Monday evenings, meaning flights can appear cheaper towards the beginning of the week. Though this isn’t exclusive to Tuesdays.

One statement that isn’t an urban myth is that midweek flights are cheaper than weekend flights. Again, because airlines set prices based on demand, peak leisure flying days (Friday, Sunday, Monday) tend to be the most popular and thus the most expensive.

Avoiding weekend and Monday travel days and being flexible with the times you travel will help travellers secure a better deal. According to Maisie, flights in the evening and later at night are typically cheaper than those early in the morning and afternoon.

Maisie also debunks the booking hack that clearing your cache and using incognito mode help get you a cheaper flight. She says there’s no evidence to support this and again, emphasises that airlines use complex algorithms to determine pricing “based on sales and wider market conditions” not individual browsing history or cookies.

Maisie debunks a slew of other commonly shared booking tips that many cost-savvy travellers have taken to heart. These certified myths include purchasing accommodation or flights during advertised sales to save money, booking far in advance, and sticking exclusively to ‘budget’ airlines.

According to the expert, travel operators inflate prices prior to ‘sales’ to exaggerate price drops and ‘budget’ airlines often have hidden fees for seat selection and additional luggage that are included by many major airlines.

She explains that the best way to get a deal is to avoid hard rules and try to be as flexible as possible. “Many travellers rely on outdated tips that are mostly urban myths and don’t add any real money-saving value.”

She continues: “It all comes down to flexibility, especially for those who are looking to secure the best last-minute deals.”

The travel experts at Which? have called out the travel health products that are a “waste of money” and have warned consumers against purchasing them ahead of a summer holiday

While many of us enjoy making the most of the good weather next to a pool or beach, jetting off during the summer holidays often costs more than it would if you travelled off-peak.

Whether it’s sticking to hand luggage or bagging a last-minute flight for less than £20, many of us are also conscious of making our money go further when planning a summer holiday, but there are certain items you could be splashing cash on that simply aren’t worthwhile.

There are, however, some things you simply can’t plan for, and that’s falling ill while travelling. Investing in some mosquito repellent to ensure you don’t spend the entire holiday scratching at them, or stockpiling on allergy medicines in local Boots might seem like an essential task to do before travelling, but it could be a waste of time and money depending on what you purchase.

While many of us want to avoid getting sick on holiday, the travel gurus at Which? have revealed the travel health products that are actually a “waste of money”, reports the Express.

In a clip shared on Instagram, the travel specialists highlighted the popular items many of us buy to ensure we feel our best before jetting off, which aren’t entirely essential and could be setting you back more than they’re worth.

Mosquito wristbands

Remembering to reapply repellent can prove tricky whilst on holiday, which explains why numerous holidaymakers opt for wristbands as an alternative. Emitting a combination of components that deter the insects, Which? warned that they’re not actually the most efficient.

Whilst it may shield your wrist or at least the upper portion of your body, the specialists noted: “You’re better off using a spray or lotion with 20% to 50% DEET on all exposed skin.”

Travel sickness bands

If you’re facing a lengthy car journey from the airport to your accommodation, or need to board a ferry, you might splash out on an anti-travel sickness band.

A type of acupressure that’s claimed to ease queasiness and nausea, the experts at Which? said: “The NHS says there’s little scientific evidence that these work and when we put them to the test at a fairground, they didn’t work either.”

Instead, they recommended buying tablets such as Kwells which contain hyoscine, a medication that prevents nausea signals.

Once-a-day sunscreen

Whilst once-a-day sunscreen may appear to be a perfect answer if you forget to reapply it, Which disclosed that they discovered a 74% reduction in protection throughout the day.

It’s safer for your skin to use sunscreen that you can reapply during the day, and you should top it up every two hours.

Branded medicines

Numerous branded medications are frequently pricier than generic alternatives available in supermarkets, despite containing identical ingredients.

Which? recommended that whilst brands such as Piriteze and Clarityn might cost you £11, supermarket alternatives of the allergy treatment typically cost under half the price, and the same principle applies to Immodium.

Search for the active component loperamide hydrochloride, and save cash by switching to an unbranded alternative.

ITV executives are said to be preparing to axe one in 10 cast members from both Coronation Street and Emmerdale as part of fresh cost-cutting measures

ITV chiefs are reportedly planning sweeping cast reductions across their two premier soaps, with proposals to cut one in ten performers as part of new budget-slashing initiatives.

Both Coronation Street and Emmerdale may also witness fewer scenes per episode as ITV seeks to trim an additional £15 million from its overall spending, according to The Sun.

The broadcaster’s earnings have allegedly plummeted by 44 per cent to £99 million during the first six months of the year, sparking a fresh drive to curb production expenses.

Insiders suggest bosses are now pressing soap creators to reduce their escalating costs, with cast sizes being a primary target for scrutiny.

Coronation Street presently features 84 regular cast members, whilst Emmerdale boasts 70, reports the Express.

An insider revealed: “It’s brutal. We’ve known it was on the cards for a while, but they’re really cranking it up now and it’s across the soaps.

“They’re looking to save millions and Corrie and Emmerdale are the obvious places. They’re very expensive shows.

“Many who have been there for a long time are reliant on their income staying as it is.

“The amount of cast has spiralled out of control and focusing on dialogue, not action, could also save money.”

Industry sources have also hinted that the number of scenes per episode – currently averaging around 20 – might be reduced to lower filming expenses.

Fewer personalities could also feature in individual episodes to help maintain tighter budgets.

While some long-standing cast members are on full-time contracts with salaries, most are paid per episode, which means that reducing screen time or overall scenes could significantly cut costs.

These proposed changes come as ITV makes cuts across its daytime schedule. Good Morning Britain, Lorraine, This Morning and Loose Women have all reportedly been affected, with hundreds of staff being made redundant in recent months.

In response to reports of soap cast reductions, an ITV spokesperson stated: “This is complete speculation.”

The difference in price between breaks during the summer holidays and those when most state kids have to be in school has long been a sore point for parents

British families face forking out £388 more per person if they don’t break school rules and head away during term times.

The difference in price between breaks during the summer holidays and those when most state kids have to be in school has long been a sore point for parents.

New research has revealed just how big the price hike facing families still planning a getaway during the school summer holidays this year is. The figures reveal that summer holiday package prices rise by an average of 15% when compared to term-time travel – equal to an extra £338 per person.

According to the study, a family of four will pay an additional £716 on average if they travel during a school half-term or holidays across the year, compared to travelling in term time. It also finds that this number rises even further during the six-week summer break, when travel costs increase the most.

Do you take your kids on holidays during term time to save money? Email us at [email protected]

READ MORE: Schools to give pupils extra WEEK off so ‘families can go on cheaper holidays’

Go.Compare analysed package holiday prices for popular European family destinations, uncovering the cost to parents who want to travel during school holidays. The comparison site found that prices increase by 9% per person overall during school holidays.

The average price for term-time packages to family-favourite destinations like Spain, Italy and France is as low as £290 per person. Meanwhile, the lowest average package price during school breaks sits at £384 per person – close to £100 more per person.

Trips to Spain saw the largest spike in costs, with holidaymakers charged 27% more per person – an increase of £496 – if they travel during the summer break. But across all the school holidays, Greece was the most expensive destination, with a median price of £2,329 per person.

Package price increases for the summer holidays

(Destination; Summer increase (%); Summer increase (£ pp))

• Spain; 27%; £496
• Italy; 7%; £152
• France; 3%; £57
• Greece; 24%; £646

Due to rules around unauthorised absences, the sharp rise in prices is particularly concerning for parents who would otherwise be faced with fines for removing children from school to travel. Without authorisation, a family of four could be fined up to £640, depending on the rules for their council.

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Despite these risks, more than two out of five (44%) parents and guardians said they have, or would consider taking their children out of school for a family holiday. More than half (53%) of these parents said the biggest reason for this was to help save on travel costs.[3]

Rhys Jones, travel insurance expert for Go.Compare, said: “The cost difference between term time and school holidays is stark, particularly during the summer holidays. For many families, it’s a choice between affordability and avoiding a fine or even further action.

“Although travelling outside school holidays can seem tempting to save money, it’s important to factor in if the trip might impact your child’s education. You’ll also need to consider the full cost of a trip, including insurance, local travel, food and entertainment.

“Travel insurance, in particular, shouldn’t be overlooked. Prices for cover can vary significantly based on timing, destination and the size of your group. Comparing policies early ensures families can get the right protection without adding unnecessary costs.”

A packing method that went viral last year has been revealed to be a huge risk for those wanting to save money on their luggage allowance

Packing to maximise your luggage allowance can be a challenge, especially for those prone to over-packing. Whether you’re a fan of rolling your clothes instead of folding them, or prefer to pack your suitcase upright rather than laying it flat, there are numerous hacks that can help you optimise your suitcase space.

However, trying to sneak in more than your allowance permits can be risky and could even result in a broken suitcase if overstuffed. Leaving behind bulky items like hairdryers and towels, which are typically provided by hotels, can lighten your load.

There are also some unconventional methods to squeeze more out of your luggage. One flight attendant even suggested using a Duty-Free bag for extra items, as this doesn’t count towards your baggage allowance.

While you might get away with sneaking a plastic bag from Duty-Free onto your flight, there’s one slightly crafty packing method that will likely land you in hot water.

Keeping track of each airline’s luggage allowance can be perplexing, and when in doubt, it’s best to verify. While wearing an extra layer or two, instead of packing them, is unlikely to cause any issues, there’s one thing that’s sure to land you in trouble, reports the Express.

Many of us often pack a neck pillow to ensure comfort during a flight, particularly on long-haul journeys, but some TikTok users have suggested bringing an empty pillowcase and stuffing it with clothes to create a makeshift pillow.

TikTok is a fantastic source for travel tips, especially packing advice, but one packing trick shared on the platform could potentially result in you being denied boarding.

The ‘pillow hack’ that went viral last year involves passengers stuffing an empty pillowcase or even a neck pillow with additional clothes to avoid paying for extra luggage. While this has worked for some, it has spectacularly backfired for others.

One user who attempted this crafty packing technique was ultimately denied boarding after a dispute with airport staff. TikToker @natashaorganic was caught with a pillowcase full of clothes at Orlando International Airport and was eventually escorted away by airport security after refusing to pay for extra luggage.

While it might seem like a cost-effective option, it could end up costing you more, especially as airline luggage policies are continually changing and becoming stricter. You wouldn’t want to risk having to discard clothes at the gate after your pillow stuffed with clothes is discovered.

Think you’ve missed the boat on a summer beach holiday, or that it’s too pricey to even consider? Travel Mum Jen Carr knows just the trick for getting a travel bargain – even during the school summer holidays

From the golden sands of Spain’s Costa Brava to the surprisingly affordable shores of Bulgaria, there are plenty of destinations offering value for money even during the school summer holidays, if you know where to look.

Whether you’re craving short flight times, child-friendly resorts, or self-catering spots that make dining with little ones easier, Jen has five of the best last-minute summer deals from sun-soaked countries like Spain and Italy for families in 2025.

Costa Brava, Spain

Just a short flight from the UK, the Costa Brava offers sandy beaches, safe shallow waters, and great-value accommodation. Towns like Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar have family hotels from under £400 per person, including flights. Many beaches have play areas, and local restaurants are super welcoming to kids.

READ MORE: ‘I visited the UK’s most photographed road, what I found there terrified me’

Turkey

A great destination for a family holiday. The Antalya Coast and Dalaman area offer tons of family friendly hotels at great prices. TUI have a last minute deals page with lots of great options for August. Turkey hotels are brilliant at catering to bigger families, with many hotels offering rooms to fit up to 6 people. You can holiday in Instanbul in August from Luton airport from just £299 per person.

Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast

For a beach holiday with a difference, and some of the cheapest prices in Europe, Bulgaria is a hidden gem. Sunny Beach and Nessebar offer golden sands, water parks, and plenty of family-friendly restaurants. Accommodation and food are super affordable once you arrive and you can fly from London Stansted to Sofia Bulgaria for £303 with a room only option.

Corfu, Greece

Corfu remains one of Greece’s best islands for families, with calm beaches, charming villages, and warm hospitality. The food is amazing and you can find some great package deals to stay in areas like Sidari and Aghios Georgios. I recently helped someone book a 7 night stay in August for under £380pp with flights, luggage, transfers and hotel!

Sicily, Italy

Italy and budget don’t always go hand in hand, but Sicily can be an exception. Not only is it beautiful and culturally rich, but there are surprisingly affordable apartments still available this summer. Add in family-friendly beaches, delicious food, and warm welcomes from the locals and it’s a winner. Look at flights to Trapani and find an apartment rental in the town. You can currently fly from London STN to Trapani for a week in August for £144pp.

Tips for booking holidays on a budget:

• Be flexible with your dates – mid-week departures are often cheaper.
• Use comparison tools like Skyscanner and Google Flights to find cheap flights for DIY bookings.
• Consider flying from regional airports or into alternative destinations. If you can fly from Scotland in August you will save a fortune.
• Look at self-catering options to save money on meals.
• Set up deal alerts or use sites to find last-minute bargains.

Don’t assume you’ve missed the boat just because it’s July. With a bit of flexibility and the right approach, you can still enjoy a sun-soaked family beach holiday this summer, without the eye-watering price tag, for more tips check out https://thetravelmum.com/family-holiday-deals/.

READ MORE: Amazon Prime Day deals see up to 55% off 4k TVs from Hisense, Samsung, Fire TV and Toshiba

The Money Saving Club team are on hand to bring you all the latest news, tips and deals that can help parents stretch their budget for the summer holidays

The school summer holidays are nearly upon us, and while that means plenty of quality time with the kids, it also means having to come up with plenty of ways to enjoy that quality time with the kids.

Any parent will know the pressure of trying to navigate hiked up prices during the holidays, trying to find days out, alternatives for rainy days and generally trying to keep the kids entertained for six to seven weeks.

As well as having to get creative, that all comes with plenty of costs and it can feel like your summer budget quickly disappears even if you’re minding the pennies and trying to limit how often you end up eating out or dashing to the cinema when the British weather doesn’t play nicely.

That’s where the Money Saving Club can step in to help. The dedicated team seek out all of the best deals, money-saving tricks and latest news that they hand pick and send in a weekly newsletter, to help you stretch that holiday budget.

It’s free and easy to sign up – simply click here, enter your email address and then select the topics that are most relevant for you. Each week you’ll receive an email direct in your inbox with a round-up of the latest news and tips that have caught the team’s eye, whether it’s a warning from an expert over changes to government schemes, or an easy trick a fellow mum or dad has discovered that has been a game-changer for their household bills.

Although you can choose from a wide array of topics, this summer you may want to closely follow their round-up of all the latest travel and shopping news, especially if you’re trying to stick to a tighter budget due to the cost of living.

The Money Saving Club team round-up the latest news and tips they think you’ll love, with something for everyone whether you’re opting for a staycation or taking the kids abroad.

We’re talking discounted days out, free activities for the families, and simple money-saving hacks shared by fellow parents. If you’re heading abroad, they offer plenty of tips including how to cut costs on holidays and swerve fines or hidden costs, how to save before you head abroad and even how to get the best value for your money while you’re away.

Of course alongside that there are plenty of day-to-day tips and tricks including cheap and cheerful ways to stay cool in those pesky heatwaves, or the latest money news and deadlines you’ll want to be aware of whether it’s to cut your bills or sign up to a government scheme that can help you with your finances.

You can sign up to the Money Saving Club here to receive your weekly dose of money tips direct in your inbox, with topics including travel, shopping and discounts, utilities and plenty more.

A British woman named decided to travel all the way to Foshan in China in order to buy all the furniture she’d need for her future home after hearing it was cheaper than the UK

As the USA issued new trade tariffs on products from across the world at the start of 2025, with China being hit with a 20% tariff, which was an increase from the 10% tariff it had been before, Chinese wholesale sellers took to social media to urge people to shop with them directly.

While these tariffs didn’t directly affect the UK, it didn’t stop British social media users to see the videos that Chinese sellers were making about being able to by luxury products to a fraction of brands’ prices directly from the factories and wholesalers. This includes everything from designer clothes to furniture and home goods.

Doctor Shirley Bekker was one of many viewers who saw these videos on TikTok, and decided to book a spontaneous shopping trip to China in May 2025 in order to buy all the furniture she’d need for her future flat.

As she arrived in Foshan in China, a city known for its high manufacturing output to the world, having 30 towns specialised in particular industries, including furniture, machinery, and beverages, Shirley decided to document her shopping trip on TikTok to show people the big savings she was making.

While Shirley herself hadn’t been convinced that travelling all the way to Foshan to buy furniture would be worth it, she quickly changed her mind when she found her ‘dream’ coffee table.

“It’s built on a solid wood platform, real glass on top, it’s really heavy, really durable, and just looks so luxe,” she said as she showed off the table, which also included wooded geometric details under the glass.

While it looked luxurious and expensive, she revealed that she’d only paid £150 for it, saying it cost her less than her HD frontal weave.

In her next video, she shared that she’d gotten a wooden dining table for £80, as well as customised chairs to go with it that matched the luxurious sofa she’d gotten for £340. She also made sure to get lamps and art to decorate her future how with as well.

While all of these sums do add up quickly, as she got home, Shirley decided to make a presentation to share how much money she’d saved after finding similar items sold in shops around the UK.

Starting off with the £80 wooden dining table she’d bought in China, she’d found an almost identical table being sold in B&Q for £349.99. While the import costs aren’t included in this comparison, Shirley saved £269.99 just from the table alone. Meanwhile, the two chairs she’d gotten for £65 each cost a whopping £990 each if she’d bought them in the UK.

Shirley continued to go through the comparisons for all the different items she’d bought, only to come to the conclusion to how much she’d save.

“So in conclusion, you flew to all the way to China with nothing but a Monzo, Google Translate, and praised hands. You ran around for six days and bought enough stuff to furnish a bedroom, balcony, renovate a bathroom, and have enough dinnerware to host the royal family,” the voiceover said.

It continued: “Had you stayed in the UK and bought all the same things, this little venture would have cost you a grand total of £21,800. But all because you took the plunge and bought it all in China instead, you spent a grand total of £3,690.56.”

While these calculations did not include the shipping costs to get her furniture from China to the UK, Shirley still saved herself a whopping £18,109.04, which will most likely be more than enough to cover the shipping costs.

The airline is offering a major discount for anyone booking a summer holiday – but its for a limited time only

Jet2 has issued a ‘final chance’ message to anyone booking a summer holiday. The travel giant is currently running a huge promotion that offers £400 off a family holiday – but it ends tonight.

This means anyone booking a holiday will have their final chance at getting money off today. The Jet2Holidays discount offers families £400 off an upcoming holiday if it is booked before 11:59pm tonight (July 2).

Taking to X (formerly Twitter) Jet2 said: “FINAL CHANCE to save £400 off your next Jet2holiday! Ends midnight tonight! *T&Cs apply. Based on 4 people.”

According to the Jet2Holidays website, the deal actually offers £100pp off a Jet2 holiday. This means for holidays with four people the discount would be £400, for three people it would be £300 off and for two people it would be £200.

To receive the discount, travellers must be a myJet2 member and be logged into their account at the time of booking. For non-myJet2 customers, there is still a saving of £90 per person available.

How to get the Jet2Holidays discount

According to the Jet2Holidays website, to redeem the offer customers can click the ‘Apply Discount’ button. The button is displayed at all stages at the top of each page on the Jet2Holidays website and app, throughout the booking process.

The per person discount is applied to the full balance of the holiday, not the deposit amount payable. The discount will not be applied for children under the age of 2 years at the date of return or children travelling on a Free Child Place(s).

The offer is applicable to new bookings only and only one discount per booking is available.

Once the discount has been applied, the the price displayed will be the total price of the package. This will include the applicable discount of £100 per person for myJet2 members or £90 per person for non-myJet2 members (the full price will also be displayed).

The price of a Jet2Holiday includes flights, accommodation and coach transfers, unless otherwise specified. The holidays are based on your search criteria and the available rates at the time of your search.

The offer is available when booked online at www.jet2holidays.com, through the Jet2holidays app, through the Jet2holidays contact centre and through a travel agent.

Which holidays are included?

The Jet2 deal is valid only on new holidays booked before 11:59pm on July 2, 2025. The discount is valid on all holiday departures before November 15, 2026.

Where applicable, the discount can be used in conjunction with one other code that is required to be manually entered during the booking process. It cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise detailed in the applicable Jet2Holidays promotion terms.

Jet2 notes that if flight dates or any passenger names are changed following the original booking, the discount will no longer apply and the balance may become payable upon such a change being made.

The money saving guru has settle the debate on what currency you should pay in when you’re overseas – and it appears that many people have been making a costly mistake

Martin Lewis has finally weighed in on the age-old holiday conundrum, revealing whether it’s wiser to pay in pounds or local currency on your credit card abroad. Sharing his expert advice with BBC audiences, he unravelled the mystery, advising on the best payment method to save money while jetting off.

Martin advised: “When you go abroad and you pay on plastic [card] and the overseas cash machine or shop asks you: ‘Do you want to pay in pounds or euros?’ What do you do? Well, the correct answer is you should always pay in euros or whatever the local currency is. That means it’s your plastic that’s doing the exchange rate conversion, not the overseas shop or ATM.”

He emphasised that this holds true globally.

Social media users chimed in with their tips and personal experiences too. One user suggested: “Just get Revolut or Monzo.”

Another declared: “I use Starling Bank it has no fees abroad and recommends paying in the local currency instead of pounds. Something I saw online about dynamic exchange rate and it can cost you more otherwise.”

A third added: “Revolut has always been the best on doing this, can exchange right in the app a swell, and when withdrawing it’ll just take it straight from that, half the time the only fee is the cash fee by the machine you use.”

READ MORE: Martin Lewis urges Brits to remember ‘ASAB’ rule when booking holidays

Meanwhile, a recent traveller shared their experience: “Just back from Spain and not a single ATM did free cash withdrawals either, thankfully that’s all I was charged with my Chase account.”

One savvy traveller remarked: “I just get euros before I go anywhere save all the hassle, and if I’m really stuck for cash go into an actual bank on holiday and withdraw money on my card.”

This tip follows the advice from a money-saving guru who emphasised the urgency to secure travel insurance ‘ASAB’.

While speaking on This Morning, the financial expert shared, “My travel insurance rule is get it ASAB (as soon as you book). People do get a little confused about this, so let’s break it down.”

He went on to instruct: “If you’re getting a single trip policy, so that is a policy to cover just one holiday, then what you do is as soon as you book, you go on one of the travel insurer’s website, you tell it your holiday dates and you buy the policy then.”

Martin Lewis explained that if your holiday is in August and you’ve booked in January, securing your insurance in January is equally important.

“That means you have the travel insurance in place to covers that holiday,” he said, adding: “You don’t need to [cover yourself] for extra dates [in case there’s a delay at the airport] because you have your return date.

“If something delays you, so you weren’t back, that would still be covered because that delay is all part of the travel insurance.”

Ryanair has responded after Scott McCormick, 33, and his girlfriend Helena Boshwick, 33, said they were ‘kicked off’ a flight to Majorca from Birmingham

A couple have been slapped with a £100 fine by Ryanair after the girlfriend refused to leave her boyfriend at the airport.

Scott McCormick and his partner Helena Boshwick, both 33, were set to jet off from Birmingham Airport on 1 May to Palma de Mallorca, Spain, for a week-long holiday. Scott explained they hadn’t forked out to reserve seats – which usually costs between £4.50 and £33 per seat – as it was only a brief two-hour flight and they weren’t bothered about sitting separately.

Everything seemed to be going smoothly, with the pair being first in line for boarding. However, a Ryanair staff member approached them and asked them to step aside while the rest of the passengers got on board. The couple were reportedly told by the staff member that the flight was full and there was only one seat left.

Have you had a flight experience that’s gone pear-shaped? Email [email protected]

READ MORE: Tourists hit with €750 fines for buying illegal souvenirs in Spanish hotspot

The couple were then faced with a decision – either Helena went on the early flight by herself and left Scott to get a later flight, or she turned down her seat on the plane to join him. The loyal girlfriend decided to stick with her man. She soon found out that she’d have to fork out a big chunk of cash for doing so.

When the couple returned to the check-in desk, they were reportedly told they still had to pay for one of the tickets, while Scott insists he never received a refund.

The pair claimed they had to shell out an additional £100 for a new ticket and endured a four-hour wait for the following flight to Palma. The ‘angry’ traveller feels that they faced discrimination, believing they were singled out for being a young couple without children.

The Mirror contacted Ryanair, whose spokesperson explained: “This flight from Birmingham to Palma de Mallorca (1 May) was not ‘overbooked’ – it was scheduled to operate on a 737-8200 (197 seats) but for operational reasons had to be swapped to a 737-800 aircraft (189 seats). As a result, one passenger was unable to travel on this flight, and was reaccommodated onto the next available flight to Palma de Mallorca.”

“Mr. McCormick’s travel companion was not refused boarding but chose not to board and travel on this flight from Birmingham to Palma de Mallorca and was required to pay a Missed Departure fee (£100) to be booked onto the next available flight. Mr. McCormick was notified by email on the day of travel (1 May) that he was entitled to claim back reasonable receipted expenses, however Mr. McCormick has yet to submit any expense receipts to Ryanair.”

READ MORE: One of UK’s busiest airports unveils brand new £100 million upgradeREAD MORE: Brits avoid Spain after protests and warn ‘we won’t go if we’re not wanted’

After recounting his experience on social media, many suggested that Scott and Helena were targeted because they hadn’t reserved seats – implying that a common strategy used by many to keep fares low could end up costing more.

Scott, hailing from Birmingham, West Midlands, explained: “We checked in the night before and we didn’t reserve a seat but you normally just get a random one. Me and my partner thought it’s not that much of a problem if we’re not sitting together for a two-hour flight, we’re adults here.

“We arrived, everything proceeded as usual, went through security as normal, went to the gate after waiting a couple of hours and we were the first ones at the gate ready for boarding. The lady scanned our boarding passes and told us to step to the side for a second. That moment was a red flag, I thought, ‘there’s something happening here’.

“We stepped aside and watched all the people board the flight. I asked her to tell us what is going to happen and she said ‘no’. When everyone boarded, she said, ‘the plane is full, there’s only one seat remaining and we will have to reimburse you for the other seat or you’ll have to get on the next flight.'”.

“We were having a meltdown at this point. There was no compassion or care whatsoever. After going back and forth we said we’re not going to take separate flights and be in separate countries for hours. We said we wanted to get on the next flight together. They said ‘you can do that, we will fully reimburse both tickets and put you on the next flight for free’.”

A common practice among airlines is to overbook flights, understanding that not all passengers will show up. In situations of excessive overbooking, where passengers face boarding denial or are offloaded, the airline usually calls for volunteers.

However, if there are no takers, each airline follows its specific policy in deciding whom to deny boarding to. If you’re a solo traveller, don’t have bags, snagged the cheapest ticket or were last to check-in, your odds of being bumped up might rise. Airlines must cough up compensation if they boot you off an overbooked flight.