Simple steps could cut half term holiday costs

People going on holidays to Dubai and other family-friendly destinations this October half term may be interested to hear some money-saving tips from one financial services provider.

People going on holidays to Dubai and other family-friendly destinations this October half term may be interested to hear some money-saving tips from one financial services provider.

Tesco Personal Finance said simple measures could help to reduce the amount of money spent unnecessarily and could also help with budgeting.

For example, a pre-paid travel card – which allows travellers to load a certain amount of currency onto the card, then to withdraw money and make transactions abroad – may allow people to evade added fees and charges that may apply to credit cards.

In addition, a currency converter or pocket calculator could help holidaymakers to avoid making mistakes and paying over the odds for items such as souvenirs.

Rachel Cutler, head of Tesco Travel Insurance, said: “Holidays don’t have to be expensive; with a little planning you can still enjoy a happy half term together without fearing for your finances – even during the credit crunch.”