There is the standard Network Railcard, which get 1/3 off rail fares for travel in London and the South East, plus options for different age ranges, veterans, disabled travellers and more.
There is the 16-25 Railcard (for anyone between the ages of 16 and 25, or in full time study) or the 26-30 Railcard (for anyone between the ages of 26 and 30).
All of them can be bought on the last day before your birthday, so in theory you can get them until the last day of being 26 and 31, respectively.
The Senior Railcard is for anyone aged 60 and over, while the Veteran’s Railcard is for anyone who has served “one day or more in the UK Armed Forces”.
There is also the Two Together Railcard (for people who often travel together, such as couples or friends) and the Disabled Persons Railcard, which includes a range of criteria.
If you opt for a Family & Friends Railcard, not only do you get 1/3 off of adult travel but you also get 60% off kids tickets.
And if you have a child aged 16 to 17, get them a 16-17 Saver Railcard – their train fares will be slashed by 50%.
For example, a single journey from London Kings Cross to Newcastle costs £54.90 at full-price on Trainline*. But with a standard Railcard discount, this journey would cost £36.55 instead.
If you fancy a day trip out to the seaside, a full-price single from London Blackfriars to Brighton would usually cost you £23.70.
But saving a third with a railcard, the trip would cost just £15.75 – saving you the extra change for some fish and chips on the beach.
Save on trips to the seaside this summer by taking the train and using your railcardCredit: AlamyMake sure you have a railcard before buying future train tickets and save 1/3 on your journeyCredit: Alamy
Similarly, a single from Birmingham to Weston-super-Mare would cost you £33.05 instead of £49.70.
Most railcards cost £35 for a whole year, meaning that even if you only make a couple of train journeys a year, they can still save you money.
You can make even more savings by buying one that lasts for three years.
The 16-25 Railcard, Senior Railcard, Family and Friends Railcard and Veterans Railcard all have an option to pay £80 for three years of travel – saving you an extra £25.
When you buy a digital railcard with Trainline, it gets sent to you by email and stored in their app – so you don’t have to worry about losing a physical card.
Once you’ve bought the digital railcard, you can use it right away.
The digital railcards can be kept on many types of device and there is no limit to how many devices you can store your railcard on.
Trainline are an official retailer of National Rail, so these railcards can be used across the entire National Rail network of England, Scotland, and Wales.
These include Standard, Advance, Off-Peak and First Class tickets. All railcards other than the Network Railcard let you save on journeys during Peak hours.
According to Trainline, Brits save an average of £184 per year with a Railcard.
Just don’t try and book a trip with a railcard if you don’t have one or it has expired – you can receive a penalty fare of £100 plus the price of your single journey.
How to buy a railcard
And how to find the right type for you
The Trainline website will find the right digital railcard for you by asking your age, how you usually travel, and where you’re based.
There are nine different rail card offers available:
Network Railcard
16-17 Saver
16-25 Railcard
26-30 Railcard
Two Together Railcard
Family & Friends Railcard
Senior Railcard
Veterans Railcard
Disabled Persons Railcard
Once Trainline has suggested which one is best for you, you can buy or renew your rail card on their website.
Most of the railcards cost £35 for one year.
Click below to find out which railcard is right for you.
AMAZON shoppers are racing to snap up a viral cabin bag that is perfect for dodging dreaded airline luggage fees.
Originally priced at £29.99, the popular bag has been slashed to just £25.49 for the black version.
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This bag is designed to fit within budget airline travel restrictions
Vankev Underseat Cabin Bag, £25.49 (was £29.99)
With the bank holiday weekend just days away, lots of savvy shoppers will be jetting off on mini-breaks – and keen to keep extra costs to a minimum.
Budget carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet are notoriously stringent with their baggage rules, meaning flyers can usually only bring a single small personal item onboard for free.
Amazon sells plenty of bargain luggage – no doubt aimed at panicky last-minute spenders – but this particular underseat backpack has racked up thousands of rave reviews.
Measuring exactly 40x20x25cm, in line with Ryanair hand luggage rules, the 20-litre bag is perfectly sized to slide under the seat, meaning you won’t have to spend any extra fees.
It’s got two main compartments, including a suitcase-style opening for clothes, plus a separate padded sleeve that fits a 14-inch laptop.
The backpack boasts a TSA-friendly design, which means it unfolds flat between 90 and 180 degrees so you do not have to clumsily unpack your electronics at airport security.
It also features a handy luggage strap to slide over your main suitcase handle, and a hidden anti-theft pocket that’s perfect for passports and other valuables.
But over 5,000 Amazon shoppers have left five-star reviews on the website, stunned by its quality at that cheap-as-chips price.
“I used this bag for an 8-day trip across Europe,” one happy traveller wrote.
“It was perfect for under the seat on both Ryanair and EasyJet. (No extra fees!) The compartments were all great.”
Another impressed flyer noted: “I have to say, it really impressed me. I easily managed to fit my essentials, including a 14-inch laptop, which had its own padded compartment – a nice touch for protection.
“The straps on this bag make it comfortable to carry around, whether you’re hiking through the airport or simply stashing it under the seat.”
It feels sturdy and well-made, which gives me confidence it’ll hold up during my travels.”
A third shopper added: “Much bigger than you expect, love this, couldn’t go wrong.
“I was amazed at how much I could fit in the bag and how it has a holster to put on my carry-on handle.
“Wow, love it. Worth every penny!”
Sale prices vary across each colour of the bag, and Amazon has marked the discount as a limited-time deal, so jet-setters will need to move fast.
ALL aboard for a summer of family fun at Drayton Manor Resort, where Sun readers can grab up to four tickets to the UK’s best-value theme park and zoo.
There are 10,000 FREE tickets up for grabs, plus another 90,000 tickets for just £20 — that is the lowest price you will anywhere, and that’s guaranteed!
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With over 50 thrilling rides and attractions, plus a 15-acre zoo all in one destination. It is the perfect place for unforgettable family adventures and shared experiences.
From high-speed twists to splash-filled drops, rides like Gold Rush, Stormforce 10 and The Wave promise non-stop excitement
Join Sun Club for just £1.99 a month — don’t miss out.
From adrenaline-filled rollercoasters to family rides designed for all ages, there’s excitement around every corner, including guests under 90cm tall.
Younger guests can explore the magical world of Thomas Land™, Europe’s only Thomas & Friends™ themed area, featuring 25 rides and attractions inspired by the beloved characters from the Island of Sodor.
Young conductors can climb aboard for a day of engine-inspired adventures in Thomas Land™
Families can also explore Drayton Manor’s zoo, home to animals from around the world, where they can swap rollercoasters for unforgettable animal experiences without ever leaving the park, making it both fun and educational.
Whether you are planning a big family day out, celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable adventure, Drayton Manor Theme Park & Zoo offers epic family fun.
From rollercoasters to roaring residents, Drayton Manor Theme Park & Zoo lets you trade thrills for tail-wagging tales from around the world
How to get four tickets to Drayton Manor Resort
To secure your seats, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Download the Sun Savers app or sign up at sunsavers.co.uk
Step 2: Go to the Offers section on the app or website and click Start Collecting on the Drayton Manor Resort page.
Step 3: Once you have FOUR out of 12 Sun Savers codes. We will print one daily from Saturday, May 23 to Wednesday, June 3.
Step 4: Once you have collected FOUR Sun Savers codes, enter them on Sun Savers to unclock booking from 11am Tuesday, May 26. Click the Redeem code button and get your unique code, then book tickets on the Drayton Manor website by midnight Tuesday, June 23.
Or join Sun Club at thesun.co.uk/club for just £1.99 a month. Head to the Drayton Manor Resort page on Sun Club hub. Click the Redeem code button and get your unique code, then book tickets on the Drayton Manor Resort website by midnight Tuesday, July 21.
Tickets are available from the start of June until the end of September, excluding August.
18+ UK only (exc. IoM & CI). Sun Savers multiple code collect 23/05/26-03/06/26 or subscription to Sun Club or Digital Newspaper required. Booking closes 23/06/26 (Sun Savers/Digital Newspaper) and 21/07/26 (Sun Club). Tickets available from 01/06/23 – 30/09/26 excluding August, 2026. Non-transferable & non-refundable. Subject to availability, daily allocation limits apply. Limit of 4 tickets per person (maximum 2 free tickets). New customer offer: £1.99 per month or £12 per year unless you cancel at least seven days before your next billing date. Full T&Cs apply, see sunsavers.co.uk or club.thesun.co.uk/sun-club.
Join Sun Club for just £1.99 a month — don’t miss out.
THERE’S nothing worse than coming home from holiday to be hit with massive data roaming charges from your mobile provider.
As thousands of Brits head off on their summer hols, many are still being caught out by unexpected data roaming fees.
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Don’t forget to install an eSIM before you travel – Holafly eSIMs cover 200+ destinationsCredit: Getty
Get 5% off Holafly eSIMs with discount code THESUNHOLA5
It’s easy to slip into ‘holiday mode’ abroad and fire off a WhatsApp message or check Google Maps, forgetting that every click is racking up a massive bill behind the scenes.
And even if you have a roaming pass from your mobile provider, the monthly cost can be eye-watering – and that’s if they cover your destination at all.
Thankfully, an eSIM from Holafly can help you avoid those unexpected fees.
The eSIMs start from just £2.99 and offer unlimited data – so no need to keep checking if you’ve nearly hit your data limit.
Plus, Sun readers can bag an extra 5% off an eSIM by using the coupon code THESUNHOLA5.
The code also gets you 10% off monthly plans. These are great if you’re a regular traveller, as they offer you unlimited data globally from £38.95 a month.
Once you buy your eSIM, it arrives via email and WhatsApp instantly.
You simply scan the QR code, or if you’re on iOS 17.4+, you can install it in one simple tap.
It’s easy-peasy and keeps your regular SIM (and WhatsApp number) active, so you won’t miss any messages from home.
It’s easy to forget which apps are eating away at your data when you are abroadCredit: Getty
And if you’re wondering whether Holafly covers the destination you’re headed to? It’s pretty likely that they do.
The eSIM company have expanded the amount of places they cover to over 200 destinations worldwide.
Whether you’re hitting European hotspots like Spain, France, and Italy, or going long-haul to the USA, Canada, Australia and beyond, you can stay online from the moment you land.
Other providers slap you with fair usage limits that can soon run out – but Holafly offers unlimited data.
There are no hidden fees, so don’t expect any unexpected charges or texts telling you you’ve gone over the limit.
Get 5% off Holafly eSIMs with discount code THESUNHOLA5
How to get your discounted Holafly eSIM
Getting set up with Holafly is incredibly simple, all you’ll need to do is:
IF you’re an over-packer who constantly battles to zip your suitcase shut, this Amazon find is a game-changer.
Shoppers are rushing to buy these compression packing cubes that do far more than just organise your holiday outfits – they actively squeeze your clothes down into compact bundles, too.
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Compression packing cubes can save a lot more room in your suitcase than traditional onesCredit: Amazon
While regular packing cubes can save you around 15% luggage space, compression cubes can save you up to 50% – effectively giving you another half a suitcase to fill.
The cubes are slashed to nearly half-price on Amazon, where you can snap them up for just £19.99 – 33% down from the usual £29.99.
These compression cubes come in handy for all sorts of holidays, whether you’re heading off backpacking or want to pack as many Ibiza party outfits as possible.
The underseat bag has nearly halved in price, with Amazon slashing the cost down by 40% – taking the price down from £29.99 down to £17.95.
The bag measures 40 x 30 x 20cm, which is the exact maximum size for a Ryanair underseat bag – so you get maximum bang for your buck with this backpack.
This is also the maximum underseat bag size for airlines like Wizz Air, Jet2 and TUI, and it also fits within the size requirements for easyJet.
Whilst other viral underseat bags can be plain and boring to look at, this budget backpack looks expensive – with trendy brown and cream-coloured accents.
There’s also a sleek all-black option with gold zipper detailing.
One happy shopper noted that the bag “Fits loads inside” and “opens like a suitcase which is great for packing/unpacking on trips”.
She continued “the fact you can pull straps to condense really helps to ensure it complies with airline policies!”.
Another shopper said “This is great value for money. Essentially a backpack but in the shape of a case”.
A third happy customer declared the bag the “Perfect under-seat back pack” with “lots of pockets for all your extra bits”.
This underseat bag has plenty of pockets and organisers, including a waterproof pouchCredit: RIIGID UK
While other under-seat bags are often made of thin, flimsy fabric that offers sub-par protection for your tech, this backpack is built to last.
Crafted from thick, waterproof and slash-proof material, this bag keeps your laptop secure and holds its shape perfectly.
Unlike cheaper alternatives that become lumpy and awkward once stuffed, this sturdy bag stays comfortable and secure once it’s packed.
There’s also plenty of handy pockets and compartments to organise all of your items neatly.
There’s a sturdy laptop compartment at the back, a handy pocket organiser at the front, and a front zipper pocket – perfect for popping your passport or phone inside for easy access.
There’s also a side pocket for your water bottle, and even a built-in wet bag inside to store any wet swimwear or leaky toileteries.
Plus this smart 24L bag offers 20% more capacity than many other viral bags which offer similar dimensions but only 20L of storage.
This backpack offers 24L of storage, with the maximum dimensions for a Ryanair underseat bagCredit: Amazon
Avoid getting caught out and having to fork out a fee by using this nifty at-home luggage scale.
The gadget has nearly 27,000 reviews, the large majority of which are 5-star and praise how easy it is to use.
One happy shopper shared: “I can confidently say it is a must-have for anyone looking to avoid those dreaded “overweight” fees at the airport.
“It’s rare to find a gadget that is both simple and incredibly effective, but this hits the mark.”
He continued to write: “If you want a scale that is sturdy, comfortable to hold, and accurate, look no further. It does exactly what it promises with zero hassle”.
Another delighted reviewer said: “Before discovering this scale, I often faced the stress and uncertainty of whether my luggage would meet airline weight restrictions.”
“With the MYCARBON scale, those worries are a thing of the past”.
While there are luggage scales at some airports, it’s much easier to weigh your bags at home then take out what you don’t need, rather than find out at the airport that it’s already too late.
Plus nobody wants to be stuck buying a new suitcase at the airport, where prices are often hiked for passengers in a pinch left with no choice.
And who wants to essentially pay for their holiday twice just because you forgot to weigh your luggage at home?
It’s even been reported that some airline staff are rewarded with ‘bonuses‘ for catching out passengers with oversized baggage.
Avoid those pesky fees by using this scale – you can even pack it and bring it with you on holiday to make sure that your bags aren’t over the weight limit from any shopping you do abroad.
IF you’re having a night out at Wetherspoons, you can expect to drop around £25 for a bottle of wine.
But skip the bottle next time and you could fly somewhere to a beautiful beach instead – sometimes with some cash to spare.
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From Portugal to Spain, lots of beach destinations have flights in May for under £25Credit: AlamyBiarritz is less visited by Brits but has a fantastic coastlineCredit: Alamy
Of course, a bottle is always cheaper at a supermarket, but sometimes you just want to have a night out with your mates.
But there are lots of flights from the UK this month that are under £25 – so we’ve found 10 of the best which have a beautiful beach as well.
Faro
The Portuguese town is used as a gateway to the Algarve but it has its own amazing beaches too. Try Isla Deserta, home to just one restaurant but beautiful stretches of sand.
EasyJet has flights there for £19.99 when flying from London Southend or London Luton.
Did you know Alghero is often caleld Little Barcelona?Credit: Alamy
Santander
The northern part of Spain shouldn’t be overlooked, not least for its amazing ‘pitxos’ snacks – grab a bunch with some cheap wine to the El Sardinero beaches for a relaxing afternoon.
Flights are £14.99 this month with Ryanair, and you can fly from both Birmingham and Manchester for the bargain fare.
Alghero
Did you know Italy has its own ‘Little Barcelona? Sardinia’s Alghero is just as beautiful especially with its white sand beaches.
Ryanair flights are £15.99 when flying from London Stansted.
Dubrovnik
The Croatian city of Dubrovnik has more to it than it’s Game of Thrones popularity, in the form of Banje Beach right by the Old Town.
Ryanair flights from London Stansted are £16.99.
Madeira
The Portuguese island of Madeira has some of Europes most beautiful mountains to hike, with some fantastic beaches underneath.
£16.99 flights with Ryanair take off from Manchester this month.
Madeira is known for its amazing hikes as well as the beachesCredit: AlamyThe north coast of Spain including Santander shouldn’t be missedCredit: Getty
Fuerteventura
When it comes to Spanish islands, Fuerteventura is often overlooked in favour of its neighbours Lanzarote and Gran Canaria.
But fly there with easyJet for £19.99 from Birmingham and make the most of Sotavento Beach.
Beziers
In the south of France, Beziers has four nearby beaches to choose from – Portirangues Plage, Serignan Plage, Valras Plage and Vias Plage.
Flights from London Luton to Béziers Cap d’Agde with Ryanair start from £21.99.
Choose from one of four beaches in BeziersCredit: Alamy
Barcelona
Spain‘s second city is know for its beautiful beach, and now is a great time to go following the latest competition of the Sagrada Familia.
Fly with Ryanair from Edinburgh for 14.99. Or fly with Wizz Air from Luton for around £20.
Newquay
Don’t fancy leaving the UK? Newquay is often compared to the Med and if you don’t fancy getting the train, Ryanair has £14.99 flights from London Stansted.
Save on a holiday to Cefalù Bay in Italy, where the outdoor pool comes with spectacular viewsCredit: Club Med
IF you haven’t booked your summer holiday abroad yet, now’s the perfect time — you can bag yourself a HUGE bargain in this holiday sale.
Club Med has launched its massive Flash Summer Sale, where you can save up to a whopping £600 per person on all-inclusive summer holidays.
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Club Med has launched a massive Summer Flash Sale where you can save up to £600ppCredit: Club Med
Save up to £600 per person in the Club Med Summer Sale
Not only can you bag massive savings, but if you’re going away as a family, you’ll be glad to know that kids under 6 stay free!
These holiday deals include your accommodation, meals, drinks activities and kids clubs all packaged neatly into one price, with no hidden costs.
These are some seriously premium holidays for bargain prices, with modern resorts in trendy destinations, gourmet dining and childcare all taken care of.
There’s a range of sun-soaked destinations to choose from, including long haul and short haul options, with travel dates stretching until November 2026.
But make sure to act fast – the flash sale ends on May 13.
Here’s a selection of top all-inclusive holiday deals you can snap up in the Club Med Summer Flash Sale.
Marbella, Spain
You could save big on a holiday to Marbella with Club MedCredit: Club Med
One option is the Club Med Magna Marbella, a Spanish sunshine resort set in twelve acres of lush green gardens.
This hidden slice of luxury sits at the base of a beautiful mountain, overlooking the sea and just a stone’s throw from the historic Old Town and glitzy Marbella.
This resort has its own lagoon pool with a beach club feel, plus grown-ups can enjoy the adults-only Zen Zone pool and juice bar whilst children up to age 17 are in the kids club.
Da Balaia, The Algarve, Portugal
Da Balaia in The Algarve has gorgeous beaches and vibrant golfing greensCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk
Whether it’s a couple’s retreat or a family getaway, you can fill your days with relaxing spa treatments or thrilling activities like water sports, sailing and tennis.
For something truly memorable, go horse riding along the beach at sunset.
Marrakech, Morocco
Save on a stay at Club Med Marrakech in MoroccoCredit: Club Med
Club Med Marrakech is a luxurious Moroccan stay with colourful courtyards and relaxing gardens to wander, with the vibrant souks of the city close by.
Practice your swing at the driving range or get stuck into a good book by the palm tree-dotted poolside, plus there’s childcare for children ranging from infants to teens.
Tuck into tajine, grilled meats and mezze at the traditional restaurant, and enjoy a Moroccan mint tea or something stronger at the rooftop bar.
There’s plenty more holiday destinations to browse in the sale, such as luxurious all-inclusive resorts on the Turkish Riviera, quiet Greek islands and coastal retreats in France.
There’s even savings for dreamy long-haul destinations like Cancun, Mauritius, the Maldives and Seychelles.
Just make sure to act fast and bag your bargain break before the sale ends on May 13.
PLANNING a holiday, staycation or day out should be exciting but eye-watering prices can turn it into a wallet-draining nightmare.
But you don’t have to pay full whack. From dirt-cheap flights to cut-price hotels and bargain days out, there are loads of easy ways to cut the costs.
There are loads of ways you can save on your holidays, flights, accommodation and days outCredit: GettyTravel reporter Cyann Fielding has found all the best websites to save you cash on your holiday.Credit: Cyann Fielding
Whether you’re chasing a last-minute break, a cheap stay or discounted tickets, here’s how to do it for less and keep more cash in your pocket.
Websites
Secret Flying
The Secret Flying website hunts out super-cheap deals and “error fares” – bargain flights caused by pricing glitches – and links you straight to booking sites like Skyscanner.
It’s free to use and lists offers by region, but you’ll need to be flexible on dates and destinations to bag the best ones.
The biggest bargains sell out fast, so it’s worth signing up for alerts to stay one step ahead.
Holiday Hypermarket
Holiday Hypermarket is owned by the TUI group and is the discount website for TUI holidays where they guarantee that you won’t find a TUI, Marella or Crystal holiday cheaper anywhere else.
With up to 70 per cent off brochure prices, they sell a lot of last minute breaks – but with the same TUI flights, hotels and transfers.
Luxury Escapes
A website that offers high end holidays at affordable prices is Luxury Escapes.
They negotiate directly with hotels to get good deals on holiday bundles, including flights, accommodation and extras like free cocktails, massages and childcare.
Hostelworld
If you’re looking for something cheap and cheerful and don’t mind bunking up with other people then Hostelworld is a useful tool.
It will help you to search for hostels in the destination you’re heading to and compare prices.
It can also find hostels with private rooms too if you don’t want to share.
Cashback sites
While it might not save youmoneyon you’re current holiday – it could save you some cash on the next one.
At Quidco you can get at as much as 3.75 per cent on an EasyJet holiday (which works out at as £11 back on a £300 trip)
Or there is hotels.com, which gives you seven per cent cashback (£14 if you book a hotel for two nights at £200).
Other brands include TUI, British Airways, Trainline and Skyscanner. so it is worth checking if you can claim anything before you book.
Apps
02 Priority
If your phone contract is with O2, then you really should download Priority.
In addition to entering competitions to win holidays, you can often get discounts on holiday packages, concerts, and events.
For example, you can get four tickets to Vue cinemas for £18 or two for £9.
Or save £220 when you spend £2,000 with lastminute.com.
MiXR.
The MiXR. app shows local pubs, clubs and bars where you can reserve a table and pre-book food or drink packages.
But it can also get you savings.
Each time you spend money on your linked card at a partnered bar or pub, you’ll get points.
Get to 5,000 points and you’ll have a £5 voucher (each £1 you spend you get 50 points).
There are also offers on the app including 25 per cent off Camden Hells beer.
Apps such as MiXR. and Dusk can save you on drinks outCredit: Getty
Dusk
Dusk dubs itself ‘the free drink app’ and it isn’t lying.
The app shows you which bars and pubs in your area have deals on and the exact route to get there.
If you scroll, you’ll find specific venues have a sticker on them offering a free drink.
For example, it could say ‘free espresso martinis on Monday at 3pm’, which means you can get that drink for free if you visit that specific venue at the given time.
Some of the venues are marked with yellow stars which means you can earn points too.
Once you’ve collected a number of points you can exchange for drinks.
For example, 200 points gets you a free bottle of prosecco at Be At One, 500 points can get you 50 per cent off at Karaoke Room and so on.
You can use Dusk in a number of cities across the UK including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Liverpool, Brighton, Leeds, Newcastle, Nottingham, Cambridge, Oxford, Cardiff, Sheffield, Bath, Exeter, Norwich, Bournemouth, Hull and York.
Eat Club
Having only launched in the UK last year, Eat Club is now available in London and Manchester.
The app shows you nearby restaurants that have spare tables, great for last-minute plans.
You can also get great discounts, such as up to 50 per cent off of your bill.
There are also some apps that will save you money on food, such as Too Good To Go and Eat ClubCredit: Getty
Too Good To Go
Too Good To Go is an app that prevents food waste by selling off items leftover at the end of the day.
The app is partnered with a number of brands including Greggs and Pizza Express.
If you jump onto the app and use the map function, you will find stores near you that have bags of food to sell for a few quid before the end of the day.
Having used the app numerous times, I usually pay around £3.50 for a bag that contains over £20 worth of food.
I have even used it in New York, when finding a budget lunch option seemed impossible.
Unidays
If you are a student or recent graduate, you should sign up to an account with Unidays.
It is free to joing, you’ll just need your student email and then you can make savings such as getting two Cineworld tickets for £13 and 30 per cent off Hilton hotel stays.
If you are a student, there are a couple of student apps where you can get discountsCredit: Getty
Student Beans
Similar to the above, Student Beans is a discount app for anyone studying. With a student email you can benefit from discounts such as 25 per cent off of National Express travel and 10 per cent off of Ryanair flights.
Cheapskate London
Cheapskate London is a free newsletter released each Monday that shares the best free and cheap things to do across the capital.
Previous free events include educational talks, family activity sessions at museums, and even building your own wormery.
Accor
If you subscribe to the Accornewsletter, you will typically get 10 per cent off hotel stays.
You’ll also get exclusive offers and personalised deals.
Nectar
If you shop at Sainsbury’s and don’t have a Nectar account then you’re really missing out.
When you do your weekly food shop, you’ll rack up points which you can then use on your holiday.
For example, you can spend your points on Eurostar journeys, British Airways flights and more.
Loyalty programmes such as Nectar allow you to build points to use against things such as flightsCredit: Getty
Avios
Avios are loyalty points that you can collect and use mainly with British Airways for flights, hotels and upgrades.
You can earn them by flying with British Airways or its partners, as long as you have an account.
If you build up enough points, you can purchase flights and pay only a small cash fee for admin such as tax and fees.
Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy’s hotel loyalty programme is free to join and covers around 10,000 destinations across the globe.
Members earn points with each stay and then the points can be redeemed on free nights at Marriott Bonvoy hotels.
Hilton Honors
Hilton Honors is free to join, and much like Marriott Bonvoy, is the hotel’s loyalty programme.
Members earn points on stays and everyday activities which can then be redeemed on free stays and experiences as well.
Members tend to get 10 points per £1 spent.
Hotel chains often have their own loyalty programmes that offer 10 per cent discountsCredit: Getty
Paid-for memberships
The Nudge
Costing just £5 per month The Nudge is an insider’s guide to London and often reports on the latest openings in the capital.
The discounts are easy to find on the app and include deals like 40 per cent off at Greek seafood restaurant Kimu in Marylebone or 50 per cent off food at The Culpeper in Spitalfields.
There are also discounts on events such as 50 per cent off of tickets to Burger Fest in Richmond and even pampering treatments like £50 off facials at Skinwork in Soho or 40 per cent off access to Lowlu open-air sauna in Kentish Town.
The Nudge will also run member events such as exclusive supper clubs.
Blue Light
If you work in the NHS or the emergency services, you probably already know about Blue Light.
Blue Light, which costs £4.99 for a two-year membership, gets you discounts at major brands, restaurants and entertainment venues as well as £100 off your TUI holiday or 15 per cent off Away Resorts.
You can even get a discount on airport parking, such as five per cent at London Gatwick.
Railcard
Railcards aren’t just for youngsters, there are all sorts of railcards you can get.
In general, they will get you a third off most rail fares and cost between £30 and £35 each year.
Different railcards include 16-25-year-olds, 26-30-year-olds, Senior (over 60 years old) and Disabled Persons.
There’s also a Family and Friends Railcard which gets adults a third off their rail fare and then 60 per cent off kids’ rail fares if they are aged between five and 15 years old.
And if you are heading off on a number of staycations, make sure you have a railcardCredit: Alamy
Trusted Housesitters
Accommodation costs can bump up the total cost of your holiday, but there is a way around this.
With Trusted Housesitters, you can head to someone’s home and stay there while they are away and all you need to do is look after their pet.
It operates in 180 countries and essentially is a win-win system as the person going away needs a pet sitter and you want somewhere to stay.
Members pay an annual fee to use the platform, which range from £99 to £199.
Dis-loyalty
Dis-loyalty is a travel and food membership that costs £12 a month to join.
In return, you’ll earn points and get discounts on hotel stays, such as 50 per cent off newly opened hotels.
You can also grab a free hot drink each day at one of the membership’s participating locations.
Days Out with the Kids
Days Out with the Kids is the perfect site if you are looking for inspiration during the weekends or school holidays.
The website is partnered with over 8,500 attractions across the UK, and offers members access to exclusive discounts.
The membership costs £4.99 per month, but according to the website, it saves families an average of £12.99 per trip.
Hols from £9.50
If you want to head to a holiday park in the UK or Europe, The Sun’s Hols from £9.50 has over 20 holiday parks to choose from.
To benefit from the £9.50 deal, you have to collect five codewords printed in the paper over a set period of time and enter them on the Sun Holidays website.
Alternatively, to avoid needing a passcode you can join Sun Club for £1.99.
For more offers on holidays travel companies have revealed the cheapest places to book – with week-long holidays from £189.
EVERY few months you can grab free tickets to the races at racecourses like Doncaster and Ayr – but only if you’re a Sun Club member.
Once you sign up to Sun Club, you can benefit from a range of exclusive, members-only offers.
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Sun Club members can claim complementary racing tickets four times a year
These include free darts tickets, 50% off West End shows, money off of London attraction tickets, plus early access to £9.50 holidays and more.
It’s really easy to sign up – simply click the button below to sign up to the £1.99 monthly membership, or bag a year for just £12.
Right now there’s a range of free race days for Sun Club members to make the most of, where you can bag four tickets for races every few months.
We’ve put together all of the race days coming up in the calendar for Sun Club members to pick from – plus the best things to do nearby, so you can make the most of your travels there.
Gents Evening 2026 at Fontwell Park Racecourse, West Sussex Fri, 24 Apr 2026 at 3:15pm
Fontwell Park describe this raceday as “The Ultimate Lads Day Out”, and ask guests to think Peaky Blinders and dress up dapper for a charmingly fun day.
Fontwell Park in West Sussex is also the only racecourse in the UK with a figure of eight-shaped steeplechase, which requires some amazing skill from the jockeys and is a joy to watch.
Make the most of dressing up posh and explore the Arundel Castle and Gardens, an 11th-century castle surrounded by 38 acres of gardens.
Saturday Evening – April Flat Racing 2026 at Doncaster Racecourse Sat, 25 Apr 2026 at 2:35pm
This April Flat Turf Racing offers an exciting way to watch a straight mile sprint live, plus there’s even 50% off draught drinks and £10 off bottles of fizz for the first hour after the gates open.
Doncaster Racecourse offers fun for all the family, with live entertainment and food and drinks stalls to explore.
Doncaster Racecourse is one of the oldest in Britain, putting on world-class races since the 1500’s – and you could bag a historic day of fun there for free if you’re signed up to Sun Club.
Nearby top attractions include Yorkshire Wildlife Park and the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum, should you wish to make a day of it.
Country & Western Racenight 2026 at Southwell Racecourse Sat, 25 Apr 2026 at 4:00pm
Yeehaw! Don your cowboy hat and boots for a country-themed night at the races with this last-minute racing night offer.
Expect live renditions of Dolly Parton classics by a tribute act, followed by a night of dancing to DJ tunes.
There’s plenty to do nearby too, like wandering The Workhouse, a popular National Trust site.
Four-Legged Friends Raceday at Nottingham Racecourse Sun, 26 Apr 2026 at 12:15pm
No need to leave your furry friend at home with this dog-friendly race day at the esteemed Nottingham Racecourse.
You can even enter your pet in a range of competitions, which include Loveliest Lady and Best Rescue.
If you’re staying for the weekend, take your furry friend on a walk through the beautiful grounds of Wollaton Hall.
Doncaster Racecourse is one of Britain’s oldest and most popular racecoursesCredit: Doncaster RacecourseTake a visit to the nearby dog-friendly grounds of Wollaton Hall whilst you’re thereCredit: Getty Images – Getty
May Racedays
RSA Syndicate Evening Racing at Huntingdon Racecourse Tue, 19 May 2026 at 4:30pm
Race days at Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire make for a spectacular day out.
The home of the Peterborough Chase offers other fun events throughout the year, such as their RSA Syndicate Evening Racing, where you can bag a free ticket this May as a Sun Club member.
Spend the day beforehand having a nosy in Cambs Lock Antiques or the Cromwell Museum.
Tennent’s Raceday at Ayr Racecourse Wed, 20 May 2026 at 12:10pm
Ayr is Scotland’s premier racecourse, home to massive events like the Scottish Grand National and Ayr Gold Cup.
The Tennent’s Raceday is one of the venue’s biggest midweek racing events, with plenty of friendly competition and top-tier hospitality.
There’s plenty to do nearby too, like strolling the historic Auld Brig or visiting the town centre to pop in some traditional pubs.
Feel Good Friday Racing at Carlisle Racecourse Fri, 29 May 2026 at 1:10pm
Thoroughbred horse racing venue Carlisle Racecourse are running a Feel Good Friday race day, where you can expect an afternoon packed with plenty of races and also music from a live DJ.
This is the only Friday in the racecourse’s racing calendar, so make sure to bag it whilst you can by signing up to Sun Club.
Stay the weekend and explore two mega historical sites: Carslisle Castle and the epic Hadrian’s Wall.
There are even costume character races at the Family Sunday Raceday at Ayr RacecourseCredit: Ayr RacecourseYou could stay in Carslile for the weekend and visit the nearby Hadrian’s WallCredit: Alamy
June Racedays
Virtus Property Race Night at Warwick Racecourse Wed, 3 Jun 2026 at 4:30pm
The Virtus Property Race Night offers evening races under the lights, plus access to bars and the food market.
This evening also includes access to the Grandstand, winner’s enclosure, pre-parade and parade ring, too.
Spend the day beforehand at Warwick Castle, where you can see exciting shows from falconry to live jousting.
Fiver Friday Evening Racing at Market Rasen Racecourse Fri, 12 Jun 2026 at 12:05pm
Head to Market Rasen Racecourse for a family-friendly evening packed with exciting races – plus under 18’s get to go for free.
Market Rasen Racecourse is a beautiful site in the Lincolnshire Wolds, which held its first race in 1924.
The Lincolnshire Wolds are an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and offer plenty of scenic hiking and walking trails.
July Racedays
Family Sunday Raceday at Ayr Racecourse Sun, 5 Jul 2026 at 12:00pm
The day will include seven races, family-friendly entertainment, and even a mascot race where colourful characters will compete.
Turn the weekend into a family staycation and meet the animals at Ayr Farm Park or visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.
Glasgow Fair Family Raceday at Ayr Racecourse Mon, 20 Jul 2026 at 12:00pm
The Glasgow Fair Family Raceday sees various owners and trainers put their horses to the test on the grounds.
There will be seven races, as well as free entertainment – plus kids go free.
Other things to do nearby include seeing the ruins of Greenan Castle or takig a stroll along Ayr Beach.
Ayr Racecourse is the premier racecourse of Scotland, as it hosts the coutry’s only Grade 1 trackCredit: PAThere’s plenty more to see and do in Ayr, including the Robert Burns Birthplace MuseumCredit: Alamy
How to bag your free racing tickets
How to sign up to the Sun Club Membership Programme:
Step 1: To book your racing tickets join Sun Club now for just £1.99 a month.
Step 2: Then head to the Offers Hub Racing Page, select the ‘Four Free Racing Tickets’ tile, choose the racecourse you want to go to then click the ‘Book’ button.
Step 3: Confirm your details and then you will receive an email with your tickets.
Once tickets are all claimed, we will open up a limited waiting list for cancellations before showing it as ‘Fully booked’.
18+ UK only. Online access required. Four tickets every three month of active subscription. Racecourses and racedays vary subject to availability. Sun Club: 18+ UK only. New customer offer: £1.99 per month or £12 per per year unless you cancel at least 7 days before your next billing date. For full T&Cs, visitthesun.co.uk/club
THERE’S no need to give up on booking a summer getaway just yet.
If you’ve noticed holiday prices getting steeper, we’ve got some good news, as it turns out there are plenty of affordable holiday deals you can book for this summer.
Agadir in Morocco is the cheapest place to book a summer holiday this year with LoveholidaysCredit: Getty
Top UK travel companies have crunched the numbers to find the short-haul holiday spots ranking the cheapest for this summer.
From Travel Supermarket to TUI and Loveholidays, insiders have shared their tips on where to look for cheap breaks.
From white sand beaches that rival the Caribbean, to volcanic black sand islands that offer a natural spa setup – here’s the cheapest places to holiday abroad this summer.
Agadir, Morocco
Agadir has been named the most affordable destination for a seven-night summer holiday in 2026, according to research byLoveholidays.
The travel company analysed data for package holidays departing between 1st June and 31st August 2026, with Agadir coming out on top.
Summer holidays in Agadir averaged at just £230pp for a week away – but we found deals even cheaper.
Sun-drenched Agadir offers a six-mile-long sweep of golden sand, attracting everyone from surfers to sun-worshippers.
Choose to spend your days soaking up the 30°C heat on a lounger, strolling along the palm-lined promenade, or sipping a chilled mint tea at the glitzy marina.
For those who want a break from the beach, the Souk El Had market offers a maze of stalls selling everything from vibrant spices to handmade jewellery.
Book a break
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Loveholidays offer a seven-night room-only stay at the Anezi Apartments from just £189pp.
Agadir Beach in Morocco boasts a six-mile stretch of golden sandsCredit: Getty
Neapolitan Riviera, Italy
If you’ve had an escape to the scenic coast of Italy on your bucket list, there’s never been a better time to book.
According to Travel Supermarket, holidays in the Neapolitan Riviera have seen the biggest price drop since the start of the conflict in the Middle East.
Holidays in this region have seen an average price drop of a whopping £231.53, when compared to what travellers were paying for the same trips last summer.
The Neapolitan Riviera stretches along the sun-drenched coast of Campania in Italy, from foodie-heaven Naples to sunny Sorrento.
This shimmering stretch of coastline also includes some of the country’s trendiest resorts, such as the dramatic Amalfi Coast and the pretty town of Positano.
For an underrated coastal city break, take a trip to Naples, where you can sample world-class handmade pizza in the colourful Spanish Quarter.
Book a break
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Travel Supermarket offers a seven-night room-only stay at the four-star Hotel Casablanca in Naples from £289pp.
Italy’s Neopolitan Riviera has seen the biggest price drop, according to Travel SupermarketCredit: Alamy
Gran Canaria
Holidays to the Canary Islands are one of the most affordable options for a summer holiday abroad this year.
Holiday company TUI have revealed to The Sun that “Gran Canaria comes up trumps for families due to plenty of free kids’ places still available at family resorts” this year.
Gran Canaria is a total sun-soaked paradise, famous for its endless golden sands and sparkling Atlantic waters.
The star of the show is Maspalomas, where dramatic rolling dunes meet the sea, offering beach days with spectacular surroundings.
Along the coast in Meloneras, it’s all about shopping, dining and trendy beach clubs. As the sun sets, the beachfront boardwalks come alive with the buzz of outdoor bars.
The TUI BLUE Tres Vidas lines up family-sized apartments in a prime position for beach days on the sandy shores of Bahia Feliz.
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TUI offer a seven-night stay at the4T TUI BLUE Tres Vidas on a self-catering basisfrom £393pp.
Gran Canaria tops the list for cheap family holidays in the Canary IslandsCredit: Getty
Bodrum, Turkey
If you want to book a trip to the hotspot dubbed the St Tropez of Turkey, now’s the time.
According to Travel Supermarket, holidays to the stylish resort of Bodrum in Turkey are also much cheaper than usual, with average prices for a summer holiday dropping by £118.30 compared to the same period last year.
This upscale seaside spot balances ancient historical sites with plenty of glam beach clubs, fancy restaurants and rooftop cocktail bars.
Explore the glittering marina by strolling its palm-lined waterfront, dipping into a seafood restaurant for lunch or jetting out on a boat trip to a nearby bay.
Plus, history buffs will love a trip to the 15th-century Bodrum Castle perched upon a rocky peninsula, or the preserved Bodrum Amphitheatre that is free to explore.
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Travel Supermarket offer a seven-night all-inclusive stay at the Kriss Hotel from £465pp.
Bodrum has seen an average price drop of £118.30 since the start of the conflictCredit: Getty
Tenerife
Tenerife is a classic summer holiday favourite, but did you know that the island offers some of the cheapest trips for adults this summer?
Holiday company TUI told us that while “Great deals can be found across all of the islands…Tenerife comes out top for adults-only trips”.
When it comes to a classic fly and flop beach holiday, Tenerife is a top contender. The crescent of Playa de las Teresitas is straight out of a holiday magazine, with golden sands dotted with palm trees and calm, shallow waters.
Playa de la Arena, on the other hand, has a natural spa-like feel with mineral-rich, volcanic black sand.
And with the temperature hovering at 28°C in the summer months, this reliable and affordable hotspot continues to shine.
The adults-only TUI BLUE Los Gigantes sits at the ocean edge, so visitors get sea views from almost every vantage point. Glass-wrapped terraces give it a contemporary look, and with wine-tasting sessions, cocktail masterclasses and cooking courses all on offer.
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TUI offer a seven-night stay at the4T+ TUI BLUE Los Giganteson a half-board basisfrom £550pp.
Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife is an idyllic golden sand beach, perfect for a fly and flop breakCredit: Getty
Cape Verde
For those craving a white-sand beach and turquoise waters without the long-haul flight or the Caribbean price tag, Cape Verde is your answer.
Holidays to this stunning archipelago have seen a significant price drop in price, with average costs falling by £98.82 compared to the same period last year, according to Travel Supermarket.
The country’s ten islands offer miles upon miles of pristine beaches and unspoilt volcanic landscapes.
On the popular island of Sal, you can laze on the golden sands of Santa Maria Beach, or explore the colourful town behind it, packed with lively surf bars and restaurants.
And with temperatures reaching 30°C in the summer months, it’s the perfect place to escape the unpredictable British weather and soak up some sun.
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Travel Supermarket offers a seven-night stay with breakfast at the four-star Dunas de Sal from £701pp.
Tarrafal Beach is just one of many to visit across Cape Verde’s ten islandsCredit: Getty
Costa Dorada, Spain
Spain‘s Costa Dorada ranks as the second cheapest place to book a summer holiday this year with Loveholidays.
The travel company’s research found that a seven-night summer break this year averaged just £381pp.
This Spanish resort is ideal for anyone who wants to mix lazy beach days with action-packed family adventure.
You can spend your morning conquering the world-class rollercoasters and waterslides at PortAventura World, before retreating to the palm-lined promenade of Salou for a chilled drink.
For a dose of history, the ancient city of Tarragona is right on your doorstep. Here you can wander through a Roman amphitheatre that overlooks the Mediterranean Sea.
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Loveholidays offer a seven-night room-only stay at the Vistamar hotel from £259pp.
Visit PortAventura World on a trip to Salou in Spain’s Costa DoradaCredit: PortAventura World
Antalya, Turkey
Antalya remains an affordable spot on the Turkish Riviera, offering a high-end feel for a fraction of the usual cost this year.
Summer holidays in the region arenow costing £90.29 less than they did before the Iran conflict, according to Travel Supermarket.
To the east, the soft sands of Lara Beach are lined with luxury resorts, while the pebbled shores of Konyaalti on the west have clear waters backed by the impressive Bey Mountains.
With summer temperatures regularly hitting 34C, it is a paradise for those who want to tan with a view and warm waters to dive into.
Make sure to tick off Kaleiçi, where you can wander past Ottoman-era architecture and narrow cobblestone streets that lead down to the Roman harbour.
Book a break
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Travel Supermarket offer seven-night stay with breakfast at the Atalia hotel from £289pp.
Holidays to Antalya are now costing £90.29 less on average, according to Travel SupermarketCredit: Alamy
Majorca, Spain
Majorca is a firm British holiday favourite, and this year the Balearic gem is more affordable than usual.
According to Travel Supermarket, average holiday prices for the island have taken a dip of £86.28 compared to the same period last year.
This sunny Spanish island is full of variety. Lose yourself in the winding, cobblestone streets of Palma’s Old Town, overlooked by its massive Gothic cathedral, or head north to Puerto Pollensa for a more relaxed pace along its pine-lined promenade.
For nature lovers, the Drach Caves offer an otherworldly underground experience, with one of the largest subterranean lakes in the world.
Of course, the real draw is the sun-soaked coastline. With summer temperatures averaging a perfect 30C, the island’s Blue Flag beaches are calling this summer.
Es Trenc is a particularly beautiful beach, with shallow waters that are almost a luminous blue.
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Travel Supermarket offers a five-night room-only stay at the Alcina hotel from £199pp.
Visit the Old Town of Palma de Mallorca for amazing architecture, like the Gothic CathedralCredit: Getty
Rhodes, Greece
Rhodes continues to reign as one of TUI’s most affordable Greek destinations, and the holiday company have told us that there’s “an abundance of brilliant deals still to be found” there this summer.
The UNESO-listed medieval Old Town is home to historic sites and Gothic palaces, whilst the seaside tavernas that line the coast offer a scenic spot to enjoy a cold beer or a fresh Greek salad.
When it comes to beaches, Faliraki Beach boasts three miles of soft sands and shallow, bath-warm water that’s perfect for a lazy afternoon.
The resort of Ixia offers a cooling breeze that makes the 30C summer heat all the more comfortable.
In Ixia, the Lito Hotel has outdoor pools facing scenic coastal views, all just a 5-minute drive from the main town centre.
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TUI offer a seven-night stay with breakfast at the3T Lito Hotel from £417pp.
Rhodes in Greece is one of the cheapest summer holiday destinations to book with TUICredit: Getty
