Planning your next holiday? Don’t jump at the first deal you see! BBC’s Holly Hamilton shared some savvy travel tips on Morning Live that could help save you money and add some extra perks to your getaway.
Holly advises against booking the first “dream holiday” that catches your eye. While third-party sites might seem to offer the best deals, she suggests they might not always be the cheapest option. These platforms act as “middlemen,” and while sometimes they do provide lower prices thanks to commission deals, booking directly with an airline or hotel can often be even cheaper. Plus, you might snag extras like free luggage, flexible fares, or complimentary breakfast.
Holly also points out the potential downsides of third-party sites, such as customer service issues or refund difficulties. Anyone who’s ever been stuck talking to a chatbot instead of a real person knows the frustration! So, weigh your priorities: price, convenience, and peace of mind.
For those who love a package deal, she notes that they can often come with consumer rights protections and sometimes even save you a few pennies. Especially if you’re travelling with children, having a direct line to customer service can offer peace of mind.
Her top tip? Always read the small print—what looks like a minor detail could end up making or breaking your holiday budget. Happy travels! ✈️🌍🌴