Thinking about your next family sun holiday but feeling a lot less excited about the cost? You’re not alone. Between flights, accommodation and keeping everyone entertained, a family trip abroad can add up fast.
The good news is that with a few smart choices, a sunny family holiday can work out a lot more affordable than you might expect. Here are 5 ways to make your family sun holiday cheaper, without cutting corners on the fun.
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Family Sun Holiday Tips
Fitting all the family’s holiday needs into a budget can feel stressful, but with a bit of research and some careful choices, a family sun holiday can cost far less than you’d think.
The aim is simple: find a sunny destination with plenty for kids and adults to enjoy, at a price that doesn’t stretch the budget too far.
#1. Go Where the Cheap Flights Go
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Spend some time researching destinations that suit your ideal family sun holiday. Short-haul spots like Spain or Portugal often come with genuinely cheap flight tickets, especially if you book at the right time.
Once you’re there, you can also benefit from lower prices in shops, restaurants, bars and theme parks. Add in more affordable accommodation, and you’ve got yourself a real budget winner.
Speaking of accommodation…
#2. Choose All-Inclusive Accommodation
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Booking an all-inclusive family sun holiday makes budgeting much easier, since everything is covered when you pay upfront.
Not only do you get a good price on your stay at a lovely resort, but your meals, drinks and plenty of extras are usually included too, meaning fewer surprise costs once you’re there.
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#3. Look Out for Free Child Places
Search for family-friendly resorts that offer free child places. Choosing this option means spending less on accommodation overall, leaving more of your budget free for holiday activities and treats.
And while the kids stay for free, they can usually still enjoy everything the resort has to offer, mini clubs included. Booking a hotel with free child places can bring the cost of your holiday down without compromising on quality, and it’s always nice to get something for free.
#4. Flexible Dates Help Keep Costs Down
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If your travel dates are flexible, you could pick up a real bargain. Travelling outside school holidays and peak season, when you’re able to, often brings the price down significantly.
Booking later and going for a late deal can also help you save, if you’re comfortable leaving things until closer to the date.
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#5. Make Sure Activities for Children Are Included
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Most family-friendly resorts run kids’ clubs, so it’s worth double-checking that yours does too. That way, you know the little ones will be entertained and well looked after, at no extra cost.
Check what age groups the kids’ clubs cover, so all your children are catered for. Some resorts also have separate children’s pools or dedicated kids’ entertainment teams, all helping guarantee some fun in the sun.
And while the children are busy having fun, parents can enjoy a little peace and quiet, whether that’s a cocktail by the pool, a good book, or simply soaking up the surroundings.
You can make your holiday even more cost-effective by choosing a resort with its own waterpark, so your kids get plenty of splashing about without you having to pay for separate entry tickets elsewhere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the easiest way to cut the cost of a family sun holiday?
Being flexible with your travel dates is one of the simplest ways to save. Where possible, travelling outside school holidays and peak season, or booking a late deal, can bring the overall price down noticeably.
Is all-inclusive really cheaper for families?
It can be, because it lets you pay upfront for meals, drinks and many extras, which makes budgeting easier and helps avoid unexpected costs once you’re at the resort.
How do I know if a resort is genuinely family-friendly?
Look for resorts that mention free child places, a kids’ club with clear age groups, and extras like a children’s pool or a waterpark on site. These details usually signal a resort that’s set up with families in mind.
Are short-haul destinations cheaper for a family sun holiday?
Often, yes. Short-haul destinations like Spain or Portugal can offer more affordable flights, and once there, everyday costs such as food and activities can also be lower.
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- 18 of the Best Water Parks in Europe for an Aqua Adventure
Save These Tips for Later
Planning a family sun holiday takes a bit of research, so why not save this article and come back to it when you’re comparing options? Browse more of our travel and adventure ideas for further ways to make your next family trip easier and more affordable.
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