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Cheap holidays are what most people want, but cheap on its own is not the goal. A holiday that looks inexpensive can cost far more once you add baggage, transfers, meals and fees, while a slightly higher headline price can turn out to be better value overall. This guide, from a Sussex-based travel specialist, explains how to find cheap holidays that are genuinely good value, from the UK to Europe and beyond.
We cover when to book, where to go, how to compare prices properly, how to save on flights and accommodation, and the traps to avoid. Whether you are leaving from Gatwick, Brighton by train, or anywhere else in the country, the same principles apply.
What makes a holiday cheap?
The cost of a holiday is the sum of several parts, and it helps to understand each one:
- Transport. Flights, trains, ferries or the cost of driving.
- Accommodation. Hotels, apartments, villas, cottages and campsites vary hugely in price.
- Food and drink. Included in the price or paid for as you go.
- Getting around. Airport transfers, public transport, taxis or car hire.
- Activities. Excursions, tickets and entertainment.
- Extras. Baggage fees, seat selection, resort fees, insurance and spending money.
A cheap holiday is one where the overall cost is low for what you get. That is why comparing the total matters more than looking at a single headline number.
When to book cheap holidays
Timing has a strong effect on price, but there is no single rule that always works. These are the factors that matter most.
Travel outside school holidays
Prices are generally highest during school holidays, particularly the summer break, Easter and half terms, because demand is high. If you do not have to travel then, term time travel is usually cheaper and quieter.
Use the shoulder seasons
The months either side of peak summer, such as May, June, September and October in many Mediterranean destinations, often offer lower prices and milder weather. Facilities can be reduced at the edges of the season, so check what is open.
Consider midweek departures
Flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are often cheaper than weekend flights. Even moving a trip by a day can change the price.
Balance early and late booking
Booking early gives the widest choice and can lock in a good price, especially for popular dates. Booking late can produce bargains for flexible travellers. Read our last minute holidays guide for how to approach short notice searching.
Where to go for a cheap holiday
Costs depend on flight price, accommodation and what you spend once you arrive. Some destinations tend to offer better value than others, and this is where choosing the right place saves the most.
Cheap holidays in Europe
Spain, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey and Malta are all popular and well served from UK airports, which means plenty of competition between sellers. Eastern and central European destinations, including cities such as Prague, Budapest and Krakow, are often regarded as good value for food, drink and accommodation. Our city breaks guide covers choosing a city in more detail.
Cheap holidays in the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are popular for good weather outside the main summer season and for a large supply of hotels and apartments.
Cheap holidays further afield
Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, Thailand and Mexico regularly appear in searches for value holidays. Flight cost is the biggest factor on long trips, so check the total price carefully.
Cheap holidays in the UK
Staying in the UK avoids flights and passport checks. Cottages, holiday parks, hostels, campsites and budget hotels all offer ways to keep costs down, and off-peak breaks are often much cheaper. Browse our UK holidays and short breaks, our UK coastal holidays, or ideas close to home in our Brighton and Sussex breaks. If you live nearby, our day trips from Brighton and weekend breaks from Brighton are the cheapest way of all to get away.
Cheap holidays from Gatwick and the South East
Gatwick offers a wide range of destinations and a lot of competition between airlines, which helps keep prices competitive. Brighton has a direct train link to Gatwick, so you can avoid parking costs if you travel light. Always compare other airports too, and remember to include the cost of getting there and back. For ideas, see our holidays from Gatwick page.
Package holiday or build your own?
This is one of the biggest decisions when looking for a cheap holiday, and neither choice is always cheaper.
Package holidays
A package bundles flights and accommodation, often with transfers and sometimes meals. Advantages include a single price, simple booking and, for many UK packages, financial protection. The downside is less flexibility.
Booking separately
Booking flights and accommodation yourself gives freedom to choose exactly what you want and can sometimes be cheaper. You are responsible for linking everything together, and if one part of the trip changes, the other may not be refunded.
How to decide
Price both ways for the same dates and the same standard of accommodation, and include all the extras. Choose the one that has the better total and the protection you are comfortable with.
How to save money on flights
- Be flexible with dates. Compare a range of days rather than a single date.
- Compare airports. A cheaper flight from another airport may be worth the extra journey, but only if the total cost is lower.
- Watch baggage rules. Hand luggage only can save money on low cost airlines, as long as you can travel light.
- Avoid unnecessary extras. Seat selection, priority boarding and add-ons soon add up.
- Check the whole journey. Early or late flights may mean extra transport or an extra night.
- Use price alerts. Many sites will tell you when a fare changes.
How to save money on accommodation
- Consider self catering. Apartments and cottages with kitchens can cut food costs, particularly for families and groups.
- Look beyond the centre. Staying a short distance from the busiest area can be cheaper, as long as transport is easy.
- Compare room types. A standard room may be perfectly good.
- Check cancellation terms. Flexible rates can cost more but offer protection if plans change.
- Look at hostels and budget hotels. Many have private rooms, not just dormitories.
- Read recent reviews. A slightly more expensive property with strong reviews is often a better choice than the cheapest option.
Cheap all inclusive holidays
All inclusive can be good value if you will use what is included. Costs are predictable, and families often find that it reduces the need to budget day to day. Our all inclusive holidays guide explains what to check, including what is not included, and how to judge whether it suits the way you travel.
Cheap family holidays
Family holidays cost more because there are more people to pay for, but there are ways to reduce the bill:
- Travel in term time if you are able and permitted to do so, since it is usually cheaper. Check your school’s attendance policy first.
- Choose self catering to control food costs.
- Look for free or low cost activities such as beaches, parks and walks.
- Check whether children’s prices or family rooms apply.
- Consider UK breaks, where travel costs are lower and you can bring your own supplies.
Cheap holidays for couples and solo travellers
Couples can look at shoulder season city breaks and flexible packages. Solo travellers should watch for single supplements, which can make a room expensive. Hostels with private rooms, small guesthouses and apartments can be better value for one person.
Hidden costs to watch for
Many unpleasant surprises are avoidable if you know where to look:
- Hold baggage fees and cabin bag limits
- Airport transfers and parking
- Resort fees and local tourist taxes, often paid on arrival
- Card and currency conversion charges
- Food and drink prices in tourist areas
- Excursion costs and entrance fees
- Car hire extras such as excess insurance, fuel policies and young driver fees. See our car hire guide.
- Travel insurance, which is a cost worth paying. See our travel insurance guide.
Why the cheapest option is not always the best
A rock bottom price can mean a long transfer, a poor location, thin facilities or restrictive terms. Cheap is a good outcome when it comes with a good hotel, sensible flight times and clear terms. If a price seems too good to be true, check the details, confirm that the seller is reputable and look for financial protection on the booking.
Staying safe when booking cheap holidays
- Use reputable sellers and check that the website looks genuine.
- Look for clear company and contact details.
- Pay by a method that offers some protection, and avoid bank transfers to unknown parties.
- Read the terms, particularly on changes and cancellations.
- Be cautious of pressure tactics and prices that disappear when you try to book.
- Save every confirmation and receipt.
Cheap holiday checklist
- Dates flexible, with several options compared
- Package and separate booking priced for the same trip
- Baggage, transfers and extras added up
- Recent reviews read
- Cancellation terms understood
- Passports and entry requirements checked
- Travel insurance bought
- Money plan in place for spending abroad
Frequently asked questions
When is the cheapest time to book a holiday?
There is no single answer. Outside school holidays is usually cheaper, and both early booking and last minute deals can be good value depending on your flexibility.
What is the cheapest month to go on holiday?
Term time, shoulder season and winter months generally cost less than peak summer, though weather and facilities differ by destination.
Where can I go on a cheap holiday from the UK?
Spain, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Cyprus and central European cities are popular value choices, and UK breaks can be cheap off-peak.
Are cheap holidays safe to book?
They can be, if you use reputable sellers, read terms and check what protection applies. Be careful of offers that seem unrealistic.
Are package holidays cheaper than booking separately?
Sometimes. Price both for the same dates and standard, and include all extras.
How can I find cheap holidays from Gatwick?
Compare airlines and package sellers, travel midweek if possible, and check alternative airports. See our Gatwick holiday ideas.
Are cheap all inclusive holidays worth it?
They can be if you use the inclusions. Read what is included and compare against other board types.
Do I need travel insurance on a cheap holiday?
Yes, it is strongly advisable. Medical costs abroad can be very high, and cancellation cover applies from the date you buy.
Next steps
Now that you know how to compare, explore our last minute holidays, all inclusive holidays and city breaks guides. You can learn about us or contact us with questions.