race across the world

A study of 2,000 adults found that on average they are utilising three hacks on a typical holiday – with two thirds getting tips from friends and family

Nearly half of Brits fancy themselves as ‘travel hackers’, employing savvy strategies to get the most out of their holidays, according to a study commissioned by Virgin Red. The company joined forces with Race Across The World champion, Alfie Watts, to dish out some expert travel advice.

The survey revealed that among the top tactics used by holidaymakers are booking flights on weekdays, bundling hotel and transport costs, and using loyalty points for upgrades. Other popular hacks include leveraging credit card loyalty programmes to accumulate points, timing purchases for optimal deals, and browsing for flights in incognito mode to keep prices low.

Once the getaway is secured, travellers have more tricks up their sleeves, such as rolling clothes to maximise suitcase space, packing snacks to sidestep airport price hikes, and always having a portable charger at hand.

Alfie Watts himself embarked on an epic journey across three continents in just 72 hours, all thanks to Virgin Red reward points. He said: “Travel doesn’t have to break the bank, especially if you are using travel hacks and this trip proves it.”

Covering a staggering 9,000 miles, he secured accommodation using points that can be racked up through daily activities like shopping and commuting. These points can also be snagged when booking holidays, a trick nearly half of those surveyed regret not using on past trips.

“It’s not just about the flights – it’s the little hacks that make a big difference,” Alfie added. “I normally pack light to avoid pricey hold luggage fees and I also use an eSIM to stay connected without needing to switch out my physical SIM.

“I learned from previous experience that sometimes a long-haul flight pays off when the cost of living at your destination is super low, which helps to balance out costs.”

He also mentioned that renting a car and seeking advice from locals provides him with the flexibility to venture beyond typical tourist hotspots.

According to the study holidaymakers use an average of three money-saving tricks per trip, with two thirds receiving suggestions from relatives and mates.

A quarter of those surveyed admitted that certain tricks had swayed their choice of destination. These included uncovering cheaper alternatives, spotting hidden gems and selecting places with simpler visa processes.

Vicki Simpson from Virgin Red commented: “The research has shown that travellers are always keen to utilise hacks where possible.

“Alfie’s trip shows how far loyalty points can get you. Reward points give travellers the chance to fast track their travels while slowing their spending.

“Whether it’s a short weekend away or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, these smarter ways to travel can undoubtedly make a difference.”

Race Across the World paid tribute to a former contestant at the end of tonight’s episode, after it was revealed that Sam Gardiner has died aged 24 in a car crash

Race Across the World has honoured a past contestant following their untimely passing. The emotional tribute came at the close of Wednesday’s episode for 24-year-old Sam Gardiner, who passed away this week.

When the end credits began to roll, the viewers were met with a touching tribute to the series two adventurer. Displayed alongside Sam’s photo, the message read: “In loving memory of Sam Gardiner, 2000 to 2025.”

Fans of the hit BBC travel show expressed their sorrow on X (formerly Twitter), with one posting: “They gave Sam Gardiner an end card. Sad.” Another shared: “The tribute to Sam Gardiner [sad face],” and one more added: “Rest in peace to Sam Gardiner, who took part in series 2 with his Mum, Jo, back in 2020.” A fourth viewer noted: “Lovely tribute to Sam at the end,” while another wrote: “Rest in peace Sam.”

Sam tragically died in a car crash on Sunday (June 1), as confirmed by his family, reports Plymouth Live. His mother Jo, who was his teammate on the 2019 series, and father Andrew offered a heartfelt statement: “We are devastated by the loss of our beloved son Sam in a terrible accident.

“We hold on to the beautiful memories of him, even though words can’t fully do justice to how much light and joy he brought into our world. Sam was adored by his family. As a son, brother and nephew, he was loyal, funny and fiercely protective.”

Sources revealed that after participating in Race Across the World, the experience “opened his eyes to the wonder of adventure and travel”. A heartwarming post was later made on Instagram by the official BBC travel series account, honouring Sam and Jo’s memorable journey from Mexico to Argentina.

“We are all deeply saddened to hear the tragic news about Sam, who died this week following a car accident,” the post read. The tribute expressed how evident it was to those who met him and viewers alike, just how life-changing and significant the journey had been for Sam and his mum, Jo.

The homage was wrapped up with: “Since filming, both Sam and Jo have been an integral part of the Race Across the World cast family and on behalf of us all from the BBC, production and the rest of the cast, we would like to extend our deepest condolences.”

Sam and mum Jo were unable to compete in the final leg of the race after they ran out of money. However, Sam had described his time on Race Across the World as a “life-changing” experience.

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