Top Tips for a thrifty half term break

Britain may be going through an economic downturn, however according to one budget airline passenger numbers were actually up 20% during the summer, as sun seekers went in search of a bargain.

With the half term holidays fast approaching, Tesco Travel Insurance has come up with Ten Top Tips to help you make savvy savings whatever your destination.

Don’t leave transfers until the last minute – always aim to book or negotiate airport transfers when organising your getaway and you’ll save on pricey airport taxis.

Know the price - Foreign currency confusion can leave you thinking you’ve bagged a bargain when in fact the exchange rate means you may have paid over the odds. Packing a pocket calculatorwill help you stay on top of your spending.

Tackle your travel money – Airports are one of the most costly places to buy currency. If you have a Tesco Travel Money Card, you can load it beforehand and you can top up online. Tesco does not charge fees for card issue, loading, commission, foreign purchase or even a monthly administration fee.

Shop around for car hire - If you are going to hire a car make sure you get the best deal. Watch out for hidden extras such as fuel refill charges, insurance fees, child seat hire, and other charges which may not be included in the original quote. Consider buying insurance independently from websites such as insurance4carhire.com. Decline the company’s excess cover at the counter when you collect the car. If the car is damaged or stolen, the car rental company will charge your credit card for the excess and you then claim back on your policy.

On yer bike! - Many European cities are bike friendly making cycling a great way to get around. Not only is it cheap, but it’s eco-friendly and fun too!

Choose cheaper ways to travel - Public transport such as trains, buses and trams are generally cheap and reliable abroad. In Malta you can jump on a bus from most destinations from as little as £0.42.

Eat your heart out – Cafes can be very expensive, particularly in tourist hot spots, but you can enjoy eating out without the hefty bill by taking a picnic with you. With a quick trip to the local grocers or supermarket, you can usually rustle up a budget banquet using fresh local produce. Local wine and beer tends to be cheaper than imported alcohol - but drink responsibly.

Cost effective calls - Avoid using your mobile abroad if you’re not set up for international calls. Tesco mobile has cheaper international tariffs for use on holiday which is great if you can’t live without your mobile. If you don’t have a mobile buy prepaid cards instead to use from pay phones or alternatively find an internet café where 2.50 Euros can buy you an hours worth of emailing time. It’s cheaper than calling and faster than a postcard.

Books on a budget - Buy plenty of reading material before you leave as you can pay a premium for books and magazines abroad.

Trim travel insurance costs - Tesco Travel Insurance is offering new customers who buy annual travel insurance a £5 Tesco voucher. This offer runs from 16th October to 12th November. For more information, visit tesco.com

Rachel Cutler, Head of Tesco Travel Insurance says “Holidays don’t have to be expensive, with a little planning and some clever cost cutting you can still enjoy a happy half term together without fearing for your finances – even during the credit crunch. We know that many families are looking for ways to make their money go further, which is why we are offering a £5 Tesco voucher when a customer buys annual travel insurance. We know that every little helps.“