The Ultimate Guide to Saving Money on Travel: Staycations & Budget Breaks in the UK

Looking to take a well-deserved break without breaking the bank? With the rising costs of international travel, a staycation or budget-friendly UK holiday is the perfect solution. The UK has an abundance of beautiful destinations, from stunning coastal towns to charming countryside retreats, all waiting to be explored without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re after a relaxing weekend away or a week of adventure, here’s your ultimate guide to saving money on travel within the UK, with tips on budget-friendly accommodation, travel hacks, and cheap activities to enjoy locally.

1. Budget-Friendly Accommodation: How to Stay for Less

Accommodation can often be the biggest expense when travelling, but with a bit of planning, you can find affordable options that still offer comfort and style.

Consider Camping or Glamping
If you’re looking to reconnect with nature, camping can be a very budget-friendly option. There are plenty of campsites throughout the UK offering affordable pitches, often with the added benefit of beautiful views. For something a bit more luxurious, why not try glamping? These stylish, eco-friendly tents can be found in picturesque locations and often include modern amenities at a fraction of the cost of hotels.

Stay in Hostels or Budget Hotels
While hostels are typically associated with young backpackers, many now offer private rooms and family-friendly options. Chains like YHA (Youth Hostels Association) offer clean, basic accommodation at a fraction of the price of hotels. Budget hotel chains like Travelodge, Premier Inn, or Ibis can also offer great deals if booked in advance.

Airbnb or Holiday Rentals
Renting an entire property or a private room through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo can be an economical option, especially for families or groups. You’ll often find more space, and the ability to cook your own meals can save you a lot on eating out. Look for properties in quieter, less touristy areas to get better deals.

House Sitting or Swap
For the ultimate budget travel hack, consider house sitting or house swapping. Websites like TrustedHousesitters offer opportunities to stay in homes for free in exchange for pet-sitting or caring for the property while the owner is away. House swapping, where you exchange homes with someone in another part of the UK, is another cost-effective option.

2. Travel Hacks: How to Get Around on a Budget

Getting to your destination without spending too much on transport is key to keeping your trip affordable. Here are some money-saving travel hacks:

Use Railcards and Discount Passes
If you’re planning to travel by train, make sure to grab a Railcard before you go. The National Railcards, including the 16-25, Senior, or Family & Friends Railcards, offer up to 1/3 off the price of your tickets. If you’re travelling as a family or in a group, look out for group tickets or special offers on the National Rail website.

Book in Advance
Train fares can be pricey, especially if you buy tickets last minute. Plan ahead and book your tickets early to take advantage of lower prices. Use trainline apps or websites like National Rail or Trainline to find the cheapest fares.

Consider Coach Travel
Coaches are often a much cheaper option than trains, especially for longer journeys. Companies like National Express and Megabus offer budget-friendly routes across the UK, and if you book in advance, you can snag some incredibly low fares. A coach ride might take a little longer, but it’s a great way to save money.

Carpooling or Car Hire
If you're planning a road trip, carpooling can be a fantastic way to save on petrol costs. Apps like BlaBlaCar allow you to find rideshares for long journeys. Alternatively, if you need to hire a car, compare prices using rental platforms like Kayak or Skyscanner to find the best deals. If you're staying in a more remote location, a car rental might even be cheaper than relying on public transport.

3. Cheap Activities: Enjoying the UK Without Spending a Fortune

Once you’ve sorted your accommodation and transport, it’s time to think about what you’ll do during your stay. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of low-cost or free activities around the UK:

Explore Free Museums and Galleries
Many of the UK’s best museums and galleries are completely free to enter. Some top free attractions include the British Museum, the National Gallery, and the Tate Modern in London, the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, and the National Museum of Wales in Cardiff. Always check the local museum’s website to see if there are any free entry days or special events.

Walk or Cycle in Nature
The UK is home to an array of stunning national parks and nature reserves that are perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. From the beauty of the Lake District to the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, these areas offer some of the most scenic views in the country—and best of all, they’re free to explore. Many towns and cities also have cycle hire schemes, so you can easily explore the area on two wheels.

Enjoy the Beach
If you’re visiting a coastal area, make the most of the UK’s many beautiful beaches. Whether you’re in Cornwall, Norfolk, or Wales, a day by the sea is a fantastic way to relax for little or no cost. Take a picnic, go for a swim, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along the shoreline.

Hiking and Scenic Trails
The UK has an extensive network of public footpaths, including the famous South West Coast Path and the Pennine Way. These trails are free to use and offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country. Pack a lunch and head out for a day of hiking—whether it’s a gentle walk or a more challenging trek, there’s something for everyone.

Attend Free Local Events
Keep an eye out for free festivals, local markets, or outdoor events in the area you’re visiting. Many towns and cities host free events during the summer months, including outdoor cinemas, food festivals, or open-air concerts. Visit local event websites or check out listings on social media for affordable entertainment.

4. Eating on a Budget: Affordable Dining Options

Food is one of the biggest expenses when travelling, but there are plenty of ways to eat well without overspending:

Cook Your Own Meals
If your accommodation includes kitchen facilities, cooking your own meals is an excellent way to save money. Local supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi, and Tesco offer affordable options for stocking up on groceries. You can also pick up fresh produce at local markets, which is often cheaper than supermarket prices.

Street Food and Local Markets
Street food is often a more affordable and authentic way to experience the local cuisine. Many cities have bustling food markets where you can sample delicious, freshly made meals at a fraction of the cost of a restaurant. Whether it's fish and chips by the seaside or local delicacies in an urban food market, street food is often a great deal.

Take Advantage of Pub Grub
If you're craving a sit-down meal, many pubs across the UK offer hearty meals at reasonable prices, especially if you take advantage of weekday deals or specials. A classic “pub lunch” can be a great budget-friendly choice, offering everything from fish and chips to a Sunday roast.

Conclusion

The UK is full of hidden gems, beautiful landscapes, and rich history—many of which are just waiting to be explored without costing a fortune. Whether you're looking to relax with a staycation or embark on a budget-friendly adventure, the key is to plan ahead, book early, and make the most of free or low-cost activities. With a bit of savvy, you can enjoy an unforgettable trip within the UK without the high price tag. Happy travelling!

Do you have any favourite budget-friendly destinations in the UK, or perhaps some other travel hacks to share? Let us know in the comments!