Looking to stay in the UK this summer and enjoy a vacation. Here are some great tips.
Switch off
When at home, it’s quite tempting to check the computer for emails and have your smartphone on hand. However, since this is a staycation, you should simply switch off. Leave your work phone at home while you’re up and about, and set aside 30 minutes every morning to go over your emails instead of letting it interrupt your family time.
Plan ahead
This can save you a lot of time and money. Instead of deciding what attractions you would like to visit the night before, have your trips planned out way in advance. A lot of tourist attractions will even give out discounts for booking early online. For instance, when you book with Alton Towers online, you get a 25% discount when you book more than 7 days in advance. Discover quaint staycation destinations if you would like to venture a little further.
Coupons
Most of the popular attractions in the UK have offers available if you take some time to check around. A quick google search will often reveal some great options. Another place to look is on cereal packets. Waterparks and theme parks will often feature a 2-for-1 voucher during summer, for the cost of a box of cereal.
Consider Visiting Free Attractions
Most art galleries and museums will offer free entry, and are generally a great way to spend time with family. There are exhibits to suit Dad, Mum, and the kids no matter their age. There’s really something for everyone, making them a great way to expand your children’s horizons. Platforms like Visit Britain have a comprehensive list of free art galleries and museums, and you can be sure to find one near you.
Make your Own Food
A good way to avoid the hefty price tags on the overpriced tourist attraction and theme park refreshments is to prepare your own lunch. Kids do love going for picnics, and taking your own food means you won’t be unstuck with long queues or fussy eaters to buy your own lunch. It’s also a much healthier choice compared to fast food offerings available in most theme parks. Just make sure you check that the attraction you’re visiting lets you bring your own food.
Public Transport
If the days you’re planning a trip for are close by, consider planning out the route with public transport. This will often save you significant amounts in terms of fuel costs and parking fees, and you will also be doing your bit for the environment. So, consider planning out your route with services like Transport Direct’s travel planner.
Go to your Local park
Have you considered rounding up your children and their friends and taking them to the local park for a game of football or rounders? This is a completely free way of spending a sunny afternoon, and is a great opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise. Kids that are too young to join these games can play on the swings. Of course, if the weather permits!
Try Home Baking
Children love making their own things. So, why not dedicate an afternoon of your staycation to making your own fun? The Parklife Blog has a whole list of recipes, so, give some of them a go and see how you do! You could bake a cake for the fraction of the price of a shop-bought option, and given the hard work you put in, it will sure taste better.
