After two years of lockdowns and travel restrictions, going on vacation should be on everyone's bucket list this year. As families tighten their belts, many are looking for ways to cut costs and still have a good time.

The latest study from Savoo, a voucher code and money-saving website, reveals that an all-inclusive trip can be enjoyed in cheap locations, and offers expert tips on how to budget while on vacation.

Identify your needs and budget for them

Defining your expectations is important when choosing a holiday destination. Are you looking forward to a trip with your family or with friends? What kind of activities would you like to do, to explore the city during the day or relax at the hotel pool? Such questions may help find the most suitable place for you.

Before you go, decide how much you plan to spend a day or how much you plan to spend on food, activities, transport etc, and try to stick to it. It’ll help make sure you don’t have an unexpected bill when you checkout and let you enjoy your holiday in peace. 

Also, eat like a local. The best way to save money on food is to eat like a local by finding hidden gems away from the main tourist spots. You’ll often find the food is incredibly authentic and cheaper.

FYI: If you have any holiday money left over when you get home, put this aside for your next holiday.

Check what’s included

All locations don’t have the same offers. According to your needs, have a careful look at what the package includes and see if it matches your necessities before booking.

Check the weather 

Check the weather forecast before choosing any destinations to ensure you are booking at the right time of year, and as a result are able to enjoy all the resort has to offer. You don’t want to end up feeling like your money was wasted.

Choose the right card

You don’t need to go around with cash anymore as card payments are widely accepted globally. However, you need to choose your travel card wisely. Many banks offer fee-free spending and cash withdrawals worldwide, so don’t get caught out using a bank card that charges you high fees especially if you travel to a different country.

Don’t splurge on souvenirs

It can be tempting to take home lots of souvenirs, but ask yourself these questions like, do you need them? Will you use them? Would you pay this price for it back home? Is it worth taking up your luggage space? 

However, if you really want it, go ahead but stay in your range of affordability.

Bonus: leverage the opportunity offered by tour companies. They save you the time and hustle of booking activities and sometimes include activities you wouldn’t have afforded otherwise. 

However, they’ll incorporate commission into their packages. Organising your own tours and activities can save you money by cutting out the fees that these companies charge giving you a better price overall. 

Sidenote, the internet has made it easier to find not only cheap but also top destinations to visit and activities to engage in when you are on holiday. Also, it is okay to ask that cool friend who always plugs you into fun things. Now, go ahead and have a fun and affordable holiday.