TikTok’s Top 5 Hacks for Saving Money on your Family Holiday

TikTok’s Top 5 Hacks for Saving Money on your Family Holiday, Money Experts at Sambla Weigh in

1. Pay in the local currency

When paying by card abroad, you may have noticed that the card terminal gives you the option to pay in either the local currency or your home currency. Always select the local currency. Even though you won’t be able to see the exchange rate immediately, it will be cheaper than paying in the latter.

In fact, your bank or payment provider will want you to select your home currency, as often this will mean that you’re given a poor exchange rate, allowing them to profit off the difference.

Alternatively, you can also apply for a travel credit or debit card before your holidays, or even a prepaid card that allows you to lock in the exchange rate.

2. Look for child ‘free’ stays

Many hotels offer free stays for children and infants when booking family package holidays. The age limit of a child can vary depending on the hotel, but is often up to the age of 12, with some hotels even going up to 14 and 16 years old. To find out more, search ‘Free child place finder’ online.

3. Cut down your flight costs

It’s easy to get lost in the excitement and book flights as soon as your holiday gets approved at work, but did you know that to get the best deal on flights they should be booked last minute? This is because airlines adjust their prices to meet demand. 

Another useful but more well known tip is to ensure that you clear your browsing history and cookies to prevent sites from being able to see if you're revisiting, and upping the prices. You can also browse incognito by right clicking the menu in your search browser.

TikTok also recommends using price comparison sites instead of booking through the airline directly to get the best deals.

4. Book car hire on your credit card

One of the most expensive parts of hiring a car abroad is the added insurance. However, some credit cards cover this cost if you make the booking with them. For example, many Visa Signature members automatically get rental collision and damage coverage.  Be sure to check the terms and conditions for liability and medical cover, as well as other things you may want to be covered for on your holiday. 

5. Purchase points

Before booking a hotel, check to see whether you can pay with loyalty points. Many big hotel names such as Hilton and Hyatt allow you to pay using loyalty points, and this can sometimes be cheaper. If you don’t already have points with your chosen hotel, then often they can be purchased directly on the hotel’s website. Keep an eye throughout the year too, as sometimes hotels run a sale on these.