Taking a break during term time
With current financial woes, it would appear that at least 55% of British parents are more than happy for their child to miss school so that they can save money by booking a family break during term time. The research by Direct Line Travel shows that at least 43% of parents did not know their child’s school policy was for fines for taking children out of school during term time.
This research shows that perhaps the current £50 fine that headteachers charge parents for unauthorised absences is not having much of an impact in preventing them for taking their children out for a holiday during term time. Even at some of the most important stages of their child’s education, approximately 48% of parents with children studying for their GCSE’’s or A Levels, would be willing for them to miss school in order for the whole family to enjoy a cheaper break away!
It is easy to see why some parents choose to take their children out of school especially as a family of four could save up to £2000 on the total cost of their holiday if they travel during term time, For example, if a family of four were to travel to Portugal in August it would cost £2,015.59 on a self-catering basis with flights from London Gatwick however, if the family travelled in late September, the same break would cost £1,214.00 which is a saving of £801.59! It is easy to see why so many choose to holiday during term time particularly during these tough financial times.
Here are a few tips that might help in your search for a cheaper break that doesn’t always mean that you have to take your children out of school:
Be Flexible:
Even though you may have your heart set on travelling on a specific date, try to be flexible where you can even with your choice of airport. It’s amazing what savings can be made if you travel a few days earlier or later than your preferred departure date.
Have It All!
To really reign in the pounds, consider the all-inclusive holiday option as you won’t have to worry about food and drink bills adding up as it will all be a fixed rate. The only additional extra you’ll need to take with you is money for some excursions and those holiday souvenirs.
It’s not all about the weekend!
If you’re looking for a scheduled flight, it might be best for you to travel midweek as flights on a Tuesday or Wednesday – the least popular business travel days – are often better value for money! Charter flights do tend to depart on specific days of the week so there may not be much flexibility on these.
Don’t settle for one particular destination!
You are more likely to find a bargain if you’re not fussed where you spend your holiday. It’s worth considering less popular destinations as they will still offer winter sun and family activities but the deals could be better in order to attract more visitors to the resort – definitely something to bear in mind!
Save money elsewhere!
Once you have paid for your bargain break, think about where else you can save money. If you can, consider travelling with just hand luggage instead of paying additional costs for your suitcases to be in the aircraft hold. Save on airport parking by hopping on public transport instead of leaving the car at the airport. Don’t spend loads on new holiday clothes, the old ones will be fine (as long as there are no holes). You can even save on foreign currency if you pay in cash thus avoiding a variety of fees charged when using a credit or debit card.