Cheap British breaks

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If you're having a break in Britain this year these 9 tips could help you save a bundle on your travel, accommodation and things to do!

Getting there

1. By train

Learn the tricks of train travel and you can save loads.

Book early and do your research. Booking your travel in advance by phone or over the internet will nearly always save you money compared with just turning up on the day and buying a ticket. Visit National Rail Enquiries for more information.
Get a family and friends railcard. These cost £24 and save you 1/3 on adults rail travel and 60% on kids' rail travel. Up to 4 adults and 4 kids can travel on one railcard.
Split tickets. If you've got time to do some research, this little trick could save you a bundle. Pick the train you want from the National Rail Enquiries website, and there's a link that tells you which stations it stops at. Then see the price of tickets for smaller parts of your journey. For example, a standard fare from Newcastle to Preston costs £49.30 and you have to change at Carlisle. But if you a buy a ticket from Newcastle to Carlisle (£12.80) and then one from Carlisle to Preston (£17.40) you'll save £13.10. Splitting tickets can work even if you don't have to change trains - just make sure your tickets still cover you for the whole of your journey and that all your tickets are for the same train.

2. By bus

You can travel across the country for as little as £1 using Megabus or National Express. These journeys can be quite long, so take books, magazines and toys to keep your kids entertained - and don't forget the travel sickness tablets if you need them!

3. By car

If you are going in the car there are a few tricks to make your journey cost less.

Have less weight in the car. The heavier the car is, the more fuel you use. So get rid of the roof rack, don't take your bikes unless you're definitely going to use them and remove anything else you don't need.
Check your tyre pressure is right - you can do this at most petrol stations for free or for a small charge. It'll save you on fuel and make your tyres last longer too.
Turn the air conditioning off. It eats up your fuel!
Plan your journey carefully. If you don't get lost you'll need less petrol!
Check www.petrolprices.com to see where you can get the cheapest fuel. But don't spend an extra £1 driving to somewhere where you'll save 50p.
Take snacks. Motorway services are very expensive - take your own (healthier) snacks and sandwiches in the car and you'll save money on this too.

Next: Where to stay and what to do

By Katie McPhilimy