Your Guide to Cheap Weekends Away
Look. Sometimes, all we need is a weekend away from everything to just unwind and reset (or maybe you're off for a little bit of a party and a drink or two...). And that's fine, no judgement here. We love a quick jaunt to somewhere nice and hot for a few days. Plus, it makes you seem a lot more interesting when Pauline at the office asks what your weekend plans and you respond with "I'm off on me holibobs". But, with wanting to get a cheeky break in, comes decisions and a load of stuff to think of before and during. It's a good job you've got us, isn't it? We're proper holiday nerds, if you didn't know already, so we've pulled together the ULTIMATE guide on getting in a cheap weekend away, no matter your style. Strap yourself in and prepare those booking fingers 'cause after you've read this, there's no doubt you won't slap the book button harder than your mate's stomach hitting the water after a belly flop.
Your guide to booking a cheap weekend away...
1. Set your budget
You've got to work out how much you want to spend, not only on the hotel and flights themselves but also during your trip. If you're looking at keeping the cash strapped and not breaking the bank, then a 5-star swanky hotel might not be the direction for you. That's okay, though, 'cause there are plenty of budget-friendly spots around the world that'll give you what you need. As well as this, set a budget for your destination. Some cities and resorts will be more expensive than others, so if the average price of beer you've got some decisions to make...
2. Keep it flexible on those dates (not your Tinder ones...or maybe them as well? Each to their own...)
Consider going out of the peak season. Why? Well, wherever you go will be WAY less busy, and that means more space at the bar to order your fancy-schmancy cocktails. But it also means the price is less and you'll have more spenders in your pocket. More fun for your buck sounds good, right? RIGHT.
3. Stay a little further out
Okay, here us out: stay a little bit further out from the city centre. Why? Well, you might save a little bit of cash that way. Being in the hustle and bustle is right good but if you're doing things on a budget, then staying at a cheaper hotel further out can save you a few pennies. Plus, you can get your steps in or take advantage of public transport to get about as well.
4. Consider not pre-booking your flight seats
If you're able to sit apart from each other, then don't bother buying pre-booked seats on your flight. Some airlines like Ryanair and easyJet charge a decent whack to pick your seats so you can sit next to your travel buddies. If having a bit of peace and quiet from them before spending the whole weekend with them sounds like a bit of you then just take the random allocation. Who knows, it might be your lucky day and you'll get seated next to each other anyways...
5. Think about going all-inclusive
Beach holiday over a city break? A lot of resorts will have an all-inclusive option you can upgrade to, which can potentially save you a bit of cash overall. Unlimited drinks at the pool bar? Big breakfast buffet? All included. And if you're off on a city break, get a bed and breakfast because heading to that hipster cafe down the road is only going to stack up that spending total.
Your guide to going on a cheap weekend away...
6. Get an itinerary sorted before you jet off
Research your destination and plan your bucket list before you go, even if you're just planning on sitting around a pool all weekend. Restaurants, bars and everything in between. And if you're exploring on a budget, research into all the free or low-cost alternatives like walking tours, parks, museums, beaches and more. Tip: add everything into a Google Maps folder and that way, you'll have quick and easy access to everything you want to do in one place as well as directions.
7. Avoid any tourist traps and live like a local
At that fancy square you wanted to visit? The restaurants and bars around there probably know the game and have upped their prices due to the fact their location is right where tourists want to be. To avoid extortionate pints, walk a few streets back from all the tourist hotspots or ask for local recommendations. Better food for less. Sorted.
8. Be savvy when buying food and drink
Special lunchtime deals and evening set menus. Happy hours. 2-4-1 offers. Whatever is on offer, keep an eye out. Eating good food and drinking great beer doesn't have to break the bank. Do some research beforehand and find out about the best spots with special offers on. Make use of the local supermarkets as well, especially if you've got a fridge or kitchenette in your hotel. It'll make snacking a lot cheaper...