Be flexible
Being flexible about where and when you go is a good way to save money, says Rory Boland, editor at consumer group Which?.
“Our research has shown that Turkey is a cost-effective option for luxury all-inclusive holidays,” he says. “For example, you can get a five-star hotel in Turkey for the price of a four-star in Mallorca.”
Boland adds that for a long-haul trip, top destinations include Dubai and Thailand. “They are likely to offer good value for money this year – and while flights can be expensive, everyday expenses are often more affordable,” he says. Plus, booking early can “guarantee the best price.”
At the last minute, try websites like Travelzoo or Secret Escapes. “These often include luxury stays, but you'll need to be flexible on dates to take full advantage,” says Boland.
Andrea Woroch, consumer and money saving expert, who has a blog about budgetingsays some hotels lower prices for rooms not reserved that day.
She recommends the app Hoteltonight, which specializes in same-day deals at boutique hotels.
In London, it offers discounts on the five-star Royal Garden hotel, with rooms starting from £191 a night. You can stay at the four-star Mornington Hotel, in Hyde Park, for £83 on a Friday in February.
If you're going to Paris at the end of February, you can stay at the four-star Hidden Hotel by Elegancia on a Saturday for £177.
“Traveling outside of peak season, or mid-week, will also get you cheaper fares,” says Woroch.
And it's always worth calling and asking for a discount.
Look for daily deals
Woroch advises using websites such as Groupon and LivingSocial. She says they “offer discount certificates of up to 70% off a variety of luxury services, from spas to restaurants to resorts.”
You can enjoy a last-minute Turkish hammam and Moroccan bath experience for one or two people at Crystal Palace Spa, London, for £45 (a saving of 63%) on Groupon.
On the same site, possibility of a city break in Malta of two, three or four nights with return flights, at the Pergola Hotel & Spa from £99.
Join a travel website
Secret Escapes negotiates prices for luxury hotels and holidays in the UK and abroad. It is also a package travel provider in its own right and sells discounted travel through its website and app.
These are often only visible to members who sign up, and as a result, it claims to be able to offer larger, exclusive discounts than other online travel brands.
It allows its partner hotels and service providers to generate additional bookings through discounts or additional “extras” as part of a trip (e.g. wine, discounted spa treatments, restaurant voucher ). These offers are only visible to members. Registration is free.
Current deals include 66% off one Five-star resort in the Maldives with optional pool from February to the end of May and up to 70% off one Maldives Island Escape with Villa and Island Tour from April to July.
The Secret Escapes team says they still have sales offers for January, including an all-inclusive Caribbean cruise with Premium flight option from £2,099 per person until March 2025.
A stay in Melville Castle Hotel, just outside Edinburgh, is available at up to 79% off until the end of April 2024
Offer to pay for upgrades
Regarding flights, Martyn James, consumer rights expert, believes that “asking for an upgrade is considered vulgar”.
However, he adds: “Every company I've spoken to says the same thing: If you can wait until the last minute and say the right thing, that's when you get the deals.” »
For example, if you ask for an upgrade upon arrival at the airport, you are unlikely to get one. Instead, ask about the chances of paying for a last-minute upgrade. “The fact that you're willing to pay for something means you're more likely to get it, and maybe even for free,” he says.
“It’s the same thing with hotels. They will have sequels that they will not sell. Sign up for clubs that offer rewards programs. Once you're a member, call to inquire about premium suites. Then ask what you can buy them for. You're on the system, so they'll know you're not a blaffer and that you've also offered to pay. Even if they can't offer you a suite, you might get a cheaper deal on something else.
James advises doing the same with designer products. He says: “If you say, 'I love this piece of jewelry, can you let me know when there's a sale?' they get a commission and will tell you.
To access some airport lounges, such as British Airways, you may need a first class ticket or be a frequent flyer.
There are others, however, run by companies like No1 Lounges and Swissport, and open to everyone.
These usually include free food and drinks, televisions, charging areas and sometimes showers. If you can get a cheap pass, you can still save money compared to buying food at the airport.
You can purchase passes on general vacation sites such as Lounge pass Or Lounge buddy.
With Lounge Pass, this month you can access the No1 Lounge Heathrow Terminal 3, with a fully maintained bar, free buffet food, TV and work areas, for £38.
To use the Swissport London Gatwick North Terminal lounge in February it will cost £36 for an adult and £20 for a child aged 2-11 – you must book directly with Swissport.
