PARENTHOOD.IE

Whether you have your holidays planned or not, there are plenty of small tips that can keep everything within a reasonable budget. Don't be afraid to try something new and consider the relief of having little or no stress once you are back from the holidays.

With both childcare and summer camps adding up to the family budget this summer, the question is always "how to maximise your free time", both in terms of relaxation and budget.

We have a few tips to consider and some practical advice to follow, making your family holiday a great experience this summer and cheap family holidays.

Research for experiences

We tend to let go of the control of our wallets during the holidays, spending a little bit more on this and that, which in the end can add to a whole lot. A thrifty holiday does not mean a lack of experiences for you or your children.

The best thing you can do is spend a bit of time researching free and low-cost activities to do with your kids in your chosen destination. Once you start looking you will see there is plenty to do for free, even for family holidays in Ireland. Use websites such as Mykidstime.ie, DayOut.ie and Ireland4kids.ie to search for local events and places to go. Also make sure to have a good chat with the local tourist office and keep an eye at notice boards around the local village where you are holidaying.

Enjoy the family time

The major, unplanned and unexpected costs during a holiday usually crop up in the evenings. As you are out of your usual routine and in a strange place it is common to get a bit restless and bored. Long walks are a thrifty way to break up an evening, but eating out every evening can break your budget.

Instead make sure to plan for these evenings. If your accommodation has a TV, bring a DVD player with a few movies, or a laptop. Pack a few board games, books for children, a craft box for a few activities, list a few games you played in your childhood and so on. This is a great time to enjoy your time together as a family, without all the must-do's you have in your day to day life.

Hotel accomodation

Many hotels will have plenty of last minute deals to try and fill empty spaces, but you can also find that the prices have doubled for the high season. Start by checking online hotel sites, such as Hotels.com, and the hotel's own website, to compare prices. Regardless of the price you are offered or take, make sure you negotiate. You could ask for a room upgrade, a night for free if you have a long stay, get the breakfast included, a meal, a drink at the bar, the use of the spa and so on. Remember, if you don't ask, you don't get.

Don't get lured by the frills hotels offer, make sure you get what you want and need. There is no reason to choose and pay extra for a hotel with a pool if you have planned other activities. It may be handy on days of bad weather, but make sure to weigh the cost of it as well.

Beyond hotels

Camping is an adventure and all too dependent on the weather, but it can also be a great experience of freedom for children. Proper planning and preparation can make camping a great holiday for families. Caravans, stationary and mobile, are also a good choice if you fear bad weather. Both camping and caravans will offer a great experience close to nature.

For other family accommodation consider hostels and self-catering. Hostels may vary in their condition and what they offer, but you would be surprised at the top class hostels available around the country for very reasonable rates. There is no need to stay in large dormitory rooms, as most hostels also have private doubles and family rooms, but you will often need to book them in advance. Hostels are often great experiences as you will meet all kinds of people and the atmosphere is often very open and friendly. The downside is that they can at times be somewhat rowdy if you happen to stay during a local festival or other activities for young people.

Self-catering is an ideal choice for most families, as you will have all the comforts of a home, be able to bring and cook your own food, and often be either in a family environment or with other holidaying families. While you may want to get away from people, your children will enjoy the company of other kids, and you will be happy for stranger's children after a few days of having your own underfoot.

Friendly house swapping

While there are many agencies that can help you with house-swapping with strangers, you should also consider swapping with a family member or friends. The idea of a vacation is to experience something new, but nothing says it needs to be exotic and expensive. Not only will it save you the accommodation cost, but also on food bills and pet care when you are away.

If you travel abroad

Follow the same advice as above. While all-included package holidays are handy and often very reasonable, don't be afraid to look beyond the package for other extras. You may find a self-catering house with a private pool or a campsite with caravans just by the beach.

Make sure you need and know why you are buying the travel insurance. If you are travelling in Europe an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) will give you pretty much the same health care as a normal insurance will offer. Apply for the card online at the HSE EHIC online.