Money Saving Expert – MSE – is founded by Martin Lewis
People have been urged to try this handy money saving trick(Image: Cerise HUA via Getty Images)
Money Saving Expert (MSE) has urged people to visit Boots before boarding the plane. While talking about easyJet specifically – although it may work for any airline – MSE urge people to “avoid sky-high food prices” and “pack a mile-high picnic instead.” They explain on their easyJet tips blog: “Mid-air picnics are perfectly within the rules. It’s only liquids over 100ml that are banned for security reasons.”
Because of this, MSE, founded by Martin Lewis, writes: “When we checked, an Easyjet meal deal (sandwich, soft drink and snack) cost £9.75. Even at inflated airport prices, a Boots meal deal is around £5.” MSE’s blog was updated on July 27, 2026, easyJet’s prices are subject to change.
Finding that a meal deal at Boots or other supermarkets like Sainsbury’s, Tesco, or Morrisons could be cheaper than what you get on board the plane, it notes that “bringing your own food may mean you win on taste as well as price” – and it doesn’t have to be boring, either.
You can make it part of the holiday by tailoring it to your destination. Think chorizo and olives for Spain, cold pizza for Italy, sausages and sauerkraut for Germany. The list is endless.
Save your pennies by planning ahead, says MSE as part of its pre-holiday tips list. Picking up snacks in advance can work out far cheaper than paying airline prices, or even the cost of food and drink in the shops after security.
30 days
In further helpful advice, the MSE team have said that easyJet passengers can check in earlier than most. And it could help people secure a better seat.
It explains: “Unlike other airlines, Easyjet lets you check in and allocates you a seat 30 days before you fly, free. You’ll have to pay if you want a specific seat, but the earlier you check in, the more likely it is that you get allocated a better seat.
“If you don’t want to take the risk and would prefer to reserve a seat when you book, Easyjet charges “from 99p” for a basic seat on a short flight. We’ve seen it cost up to £39.99 to stretch out in the front row on a longer trip (for a list of costs, see Easyjet’s fees and charges).”
Whether you’re paying for a seat or using the free check-in 30 days before, passengers are urged not to leave it to the last minute. By then, many seats may already be taken, increasing the chances you’ll end up separated from your family, partner or friends.
MSE concludes: “The best bet is to check in online (and secure your seats) as early as possible.”
For a full list of easyJet tips and tricks, visit the MSE blog here.
Charlie Herlihy and Sophia Woodcock have been working hard to save money after living in a city on entry-level salaries
Charlie Herlihy and Sophia have been living frugally since their teens(Image: SWNS)
A savvy couple who “never pay full price for anything” by using discount apps and reward offers manage to save £1,600 per year living in London. Charlie Herlihy, 26, and partner Sophia Woodcock, 24, have been living frugally since their teens, and since moving to the capital on entry-level salaries in 2025, have been working out ways to maximise their savings.
They eat out using apps that give huge discounts, choose their energy providers wisely to get the best rewards and use Gold Amex cards to earn points “anywhere” they spend to exchange for luxury perks like plane tickets. In July, the duo were able to save £137.02 from their swaps.
After travelling to South-East Asia for six months after saving £12,000 in just three months in 2022 using their tips and tricks and spending less, their next goal is to afford return tickets to Singapore. Charlie, a graphic designer, from London, says: “Kind of our brand became we never pay full price for anything.
“I think mainly the reason it became a habit is anywhere you go you tap your card without thinking about it. We have a back catalogue of apps on our phones that do deals and discounts and websites we research on first.
“Say we’re planning a weekend we’ll check certain websites for offers and places that are doing different discounts. It takes 15 minutes in the morning but to plan it out is the most cost-effective way of doing it.
“I was used to doing it myself and a lot of people don’t factor it in and go with the flow but you end up spending loads of money without planning. It really does add up.”
Sophia and Charlie have a “portfolio” of methods to ensure they can live frugally, especially on food and drink. Sophia said: “Eating out and coffee is something me and Phi love to do and one of the things we spend on and apps are the best way to save money on a big expense.
“The Paace app rewards you with coffees for getting your steps in. Eat Club gives you discounts at restaurants that don’t have their tables filled.”
They also make use of First Table, an app that often gives you a 50% discount on your food bill if you dine early. The pair try to shop at Sainsbury’s where they can – as Charlie says they have an affiliate with Amex where they can earn four points per £1 spent, as oppose to £1 at other supermarkets.
Lidl Plus is also a go-to, and they will check out the app before hitting the shops to see what’s on offer, as well as making use of Ocado’s 25% off offers.
“We use Octopus energy as it gives you stuff like two for £8 cinema tickets, e-bike rides around London and free coffees for literally paying your bills as you would with every other provider,” Charlie says.
“We use the gold Amex card which gives you points on everything you spend anywhere really. You can build those up and buy flights, stuff like that.
“Our project we’re working towards is return tickets to Singapore. We’ve made it our default card even when tapping on the tube and stuff like that.”
She is also a “big advocate” for checking promotions that come through from restaurants on emails – having recently “paid nothing” after bagging a £15 voucher and cashing in on half price ramen at a restaurant. Charlie said: “We’re not really saving for anything but just to have enough money for freedom in life as we’d love to go to Australia and go travelling again.”
You can follow Charlie and Sophia on TikTok @lifeofphiandcharlie. Charlie and Sophia’s July savings:
Utilities
Octopus Energy
-Cinema trips £11.96 saved
-Free Forats bike hire – 30-minute free session (usual price £10.90)
Food and drink
Paace
-They bought four coffees and saved £16.60 (£8.30 each)
Eat Club
-Went out to dinner using discounts 3 times and saved 30% on one bill (£51.07 became £29.86 saving £11.21)
First Table
-Saved 50% on one saving £23.69 from a £65.38 bill (including the first table £6 booking fee)
London on the Inside
-£88.90 down to £50 with a 50% off offer (with service charge)
Too Good To Go
-Didn’t use this month but normally pick up a £3.99 Gail’s bag worth £15, an £11.01 saving
Banking
The Amex Gold card
-The couple say they make back between 0.05%-1% every time they tap their cards on anything with Avios redeems – which is how nothing they pay for is really ever full price (unless they do not accept Amex). In July, they spent £850 through Amex which equates to £4.25-£12.75 depending on where they redeem their Avios.
They are still saving up for their first fully paid for Avios flight. Also, whenever purchasing anything online they try and do so through the Avios portal – similar to TopCashback – which gives them Avios for free just for buying something through the portal.
Brits now prefer taking multiple UK-based micro-cations throughout the year and EV savings make cost-effective short breaks even cheaper.
11:55, 24 Aug 2026Updated 12:00, 24 Aug 2026
Smart Energy GB explore how Brits are enjoying Bank Holiday weekend
More than four in 10 Brits now favour taking several UK-based micro-cations throughout the year – rather than a single annual holiday, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed they would rather put the money a big getaway would cost towards multiple short breaks spread across the year. A fifth are planning one of these short trips – within 100 miles of their home – this bank holiday weekend.
According to the findings, 44% are now taking more micro-cations than they were five years ago. Three quarters enjoy these types of breaks as they have helped them uncover more historical landmarks, coastal towns, and greater swathes of the British countryside.
The study, commissioned by Smart Energy GB, found 49% have taken a micro-cation in the past year alone, while 58% agreed micro-cations are now firmly part of their annual travel plans. For 44%, they have become a first-choice option.
Victoria Bacon, director at Smart Energy GB, said: “With household budgets under pressure, shorter breaks closer to home offer the chance to relax, recharge and create lasting memories without travelling far and often at a lower cost.”
The research also revealed that 69% agreed a micro-cation was more affordable than heading overseas, and of those who have swapped a foreign holiday for a micro-cation, 67% did so to save money.
Of those who’ve cut costs by taking this type of break, 34% have used the extra cash to enjoy more short trips, while 47% put it straight into their savings.
The research also surveyed 593 EV drivers and discovered that almost half (47%) said owning an electric vehicle has made them more inclined to take a micro-cation.
Two in five (39%) appreciated the ease of setting off from home with a fully charged car, without having to hunt down a service station or public charging point.
Based on publicly available data verified by New Automotive, a 200-mile round trip costs £36.57 in fuel in an average family car. By contrast, it costs as little as £14.92 to charge an EV at home on a standard electricity tariff to cover the same distance – a saving of 59%.
Meanwhile, smart meter owners can trim costs even further by charging overnight on a flexible EV tariff – bringing the cost down to just £4.57 on average. It turns out that 37% of electric car drivers are already doing this, compared to just 14% who opt for public charging points.
Victoria Bacon added: “By using a smart meter to access an EV tariff that fits your needs best, you can save a significant amount on travel costs by charging during cheaper, off-peak periods.”
Double Olympic champion and EV enthusiast, Helen Glover OBE, said: “Some of our best family adventures haven’t involved travelling hundreds of miles – they’ve been spontaneous trips that are less than a couple of hours away by car.
“Whether it’s the rolling countryside of Devon, the dramatic coastline of Cornwall or the peaceful trails of Dartmoor, there are so many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
“As an EV driver, those local adventures can be more affordable, convenient and sustainable too.”
TOP 10 REASONS BRITS ARE PACKING FOR A MICRO-CATION:.
They left the UK earlier this year with their sons aged six and four
Ryan Blackley and wife Jess with sons Noah and Bodhi in Thailand(Image: Ryan Blackley/SWNS)
A couple ‘retired’ by 33 and 32 ditched the UK to travel the world with their kids – spending just £60 a day.
Ryan Blackley, 35, and wife Jess, 34, headed out to Chang Mai, Thailand, on February 24, 2026, with sons Noah, six, and Bodhi, four. They had travelled together back in 2016 before having children and say they knew their future would “lie outside the UK”.
By renting out the two flats and family home they still own, the pair class themselves as retired and can fund their new lifestyle with the profits. The original plan to move to Portugal and travel Europe changed when they realised the climate would be warmer in the winter months in Asia, making the jump to move 5,800 miles away.
Leaving with just two suitcases and a backpack each, the couple reckon they spend an average of £1,800 each month compared to their £2,200 per month costs in the UK. They also bring in an estimated £2,500 monthly from their rentals.
They don’t plan to return to live in the UK and have a five-year Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) – which allows them to both live and work remotely there. With plans to continue world-schooling their sons, so far they say they are “thriving” in their new life.
Ryan, originally from Cambridge, said: “We had a plan basically of how to get out of the UK and that was through property. But I think we obviously had a good life in the UK, but it got to a point where I guess we felt that the UK wasn’t the right place for us to live and bring up kids.
“The cost of living is insane. We’ve got two boys and at some point they are going to want to go out on their own and we don’t feel the UK is a safe country anymore because knife crime is massive and I don’t want one of the kids being a statistic of knife crime anymore.
“The school system is a very outdated system. For us, the whole concept of life is backwards because you’ve got to go to school, work and then enjoy life when you’re 68 years old.
“Who knows one, if you’ll be alive then and then two, health-wise what that will be. This way we’re teaching the kids everything.
“They know how to read, write, maths, English etc and then learn the skills they don’t get taught at school. We both class ourselves as retired because the property work requires minimal upkeep and effort.”
Mum Jess said they got caught up in the “monotony” of school runs back in the UK. “Every time I’d pick Noah up from school I’d ask ‘how was your day blah blah blah’,” she said.
“He’d say ‘these kids were naughty today’ or ‘these kids got their names on the board’ and I never heard positive things. I thought ‘what’s the point?’.
“I feel like a lot of the school day is spent controlling the class and troublesome kids. How much is actually spent learning?”
After buying her first flat at 20 for £120,000, Jess rented it out and the couple bought their second flat for £145,000 after they saved up some money while travelling and working abroad for two-and-a-half years – visiting 27 countries. They went ahead and sold it for £183,000, before buying another two-bed flat £190,000 – and finally buying their four-bed family home in 2021.
Renting them all out either through Airbnb or with private tenants, they have been able to retire early after bringing in £2,500 per month.
“Obviously we still have the house in the UK and if this all fails, we’ll simply go back,” Ryan said. “We’ve done nearly six months already and I don’t see us ever returning, not in a living capacity but literally just to visit the family.
“It’s crazy we lived in the house and all we travel with is two large suitcases and a backpack each. It makes you realise you don’t need much in life.”
Flying out in February to Chang Mai, after their 60-day tourist visa expired they crossed the border to Laos and applied for their five-year DTV. Since then, they have travelled around Thailand, including visits to Chang Rai, Bangkok, Udon Thani and Kanchanaburi. Currently in Koh Samui, they plan to visit Malaysia and Singapore next.
“The plan still is to travel the world, but having a base in Asia makes it easier,” Ryan said. “We’ve basically got freedom and don’t have to be anywhere by a certain date or time.
“It’s just the four of us and we pretty much go with the flow. It’s just nice being free”.
The couple have stayed in a mixture of Airbnbs, apartments and hotels and only usually book their next spot a few days in advance. They don’t budget, but Ryan said he made a note of everything they spend and they have been eating out for lunch and dinner since their travels began.
“We’re quite fine with the simple life, like eating Thai food,” he said. “We don’t drink alcohol or go to bars or fancy restaurants.
“The rolling average from the last five months is £1,800 for the month for four of us. We were everyday people, just a normal family who had a dream to get out and travel the world and give our kids a different life.
“I can understand it can be scary because it’s going into the unknown and going away from your family and friends, home comforts and everything. But if you don’t try it out, how do you know you’re not going to like it?”
You can follow Ryan and Jess on Instagram and YouTube @blackleysabroad TikTok @travelwiththeblackleys.
Ryan and Jess’ cost breakdown
UK costs per month
Mortgage – £1,459
Bills – £427
Food – £400
Total: £2,296
Thailand costs in July
Accommodation – £790
Food – £350 a month
Other – Days out, transport, miscellaneous- average per month £420
Many households could be overpaying for their TV Licence without realising it
10:42, 17 Aug 2026Updated 10:42, 17 Aug 2026
Some people are entitled to a discounted or free TV Licence(Image: MMassel via Getty Images)
Many people may be able to get their TV Licence for less than they think, with some eligible households saving up to £90 a year.
TV Licensing says discounts are available to certain groups. For example, if you’re aged 74 or over and you, or a partner living at the same address, receive Pension Credit, you may be entitled to a free licence.
People in a care home or sheltered accommodation may also qualify for a reduced fee of £7.50, while those who only watch on a black-and-white TV pay £60.50. Meanwhile, anyone who is blind (severely sight impaired) can apply for a 50% discount, cutting the cost to £90.
50% TV Licence discount
A TV Licence costs £180 per year, following a price rise on April 1, 2026. However, TV Licensing rules state you could get it for £90.
It explains: “If you are blind (severely sight impaired) and can provide the appropriate evidence, you are eligible to apply for a 50% concession.”
“Your licence will also cover anyone who lives with you”, it confirms. However, it adds that “if you are partially sighted (sight impaired), you are not eligible.”
Do I qualify for a 50% blind concession TV Licence?
TV Licensing explains that a blind concession Licence costs £90 for colour and £30.25 for a black and white Licence. It asks that it be provided with a copy of ONE of these documents to confirm that you’re certified as blind (severely sight-impaired):
CVI (Certificate of Visual Impairment) to confirm that you’re certified as blind (severely sight impaired)
BD8 Certificate to confirm that you’re certified as blind (severely sight impaired)
A certificate or document issued by a Local Authority that shows you are registered as blind (severely sight impaired)
A copy of a certificate from an Ophthalmologist (eye surgeon), stating that you are blind (severely sight impaired).
Tax coding notice from HMRC showing you receive Blind person’s allowance
A copy of your National Registration Card signed by an Ophthalmologist stating that your are blind (severely sight impaired)
DHSS documentation or certificate stating that your are blind (severely sight impaired) for Isle of Man residents only
Health and Social Services documentation or letter from Optometrist for residents of Northern Ireland only
I live with someone who is blind, can I still get the discount?
Yes. The TV Licence experts note that if you or someone you live with is blind (severely sight impaired), regardless of their age, you can apply for a blind concession.
If you already have a TV Licence but it isn’t in the blind person’s name, you’ll need to transfer it to them. This can be done by submitting a first-time blind application and entering the TV Licence number currently linked to your address.
I am partially sighted (sight-impaired). Can I get the discount?
No. TV Licence rules state: “People who are partially sighted (sight impaired) do not qualify for a 50% blind concession.”
How to apply for a blind concession
If you already have a blind licence, you can sign in here to renew it. If you are applying for the first time, you can fill out the official form here.
MoneySavingExpert, which was founded by Martin Lewis, shared a tip for plane passengers
Martin Lewis is the founder of Money Saving Expert (stock photo)(Image: ITV)
Some customers could be owed back hundreds after purchasing plane tickets, according to MoneySavingExpert (MSE). The consumer website, founded by journalist and TV personality Martin Lewis, regularly shares advice to help Brits.
In advice for travellers, the money experts pointed out that passengers who book non-refundable plane tickets but don’t end up using them can still request a refund for some of their money. While the refund won’t cover the entire cost of the tickets, they can get the Air Passenger Duty refunded.
In a Facebook post, MSE said: “Air Passenger Duty is a tax only paid by the airline to HMRC if you fly. If you don’t fly, whether you cancelled a non-refundable ticket or you missed your flight, you can request a refund from £8 to £253 per person.” The post also included a real-life success story from MSE Clare.
Clare revealed that her in-laws received a refund of £92 each after realising they needed to change their return flight home after visiting the UK from Australia. The family members had assumed they wouldn’t get any money back from their non-refundable tickets after their plans changed, but a “quick email” to their airline confirmed the good news. Clare said it was “a small consolation, but better than nothing.”
In the comments under the post, MSE added: “There’s no deadline for how far back you can claim – though some airlines impose their own (and a few charge an admin fee).” More information is available on the MSE website.
It said: “When you book a flight departing the UK, your ticket price will include various fees, such as airport tax. However, this isn’t collected by HM Revenue and Customs from the airline until after you actually fly. If you don’t fly – even by choice – you shouldn’t have to pay the tax.”
If you’re looking to make a claim, airlines publish information for passengers explaining exactly how to get it. Skyscanner explains: “The procedures for claiming an airport tax refund vary from airline to airline.
“Some will refund it automatically, whereas others require you to fill out a form. It’s worth noting that some carriers will charge an admin fee for the refund application, and with budget airlines, that fee can often surmount the amount you’ll get back.
“Each airline should publish details of how to claim back APD tax on its own website. If you cannot find this, call the airline and request details.”
Skyscanner added: “Some airlines have commercial agreements with various airports and may not always pay airport taxes. If you didn’t initially pay them, you wouldn’t be eligible for a refund.”
Beth used Vinted to sell all her unwanted items – and thinks other UK households could also be sitting on thousands of pounds
Beth Hackman misses one thing in the UK after her move – and it’s probably not what you’d expect(Image: Jam Press/@physiofit.beth)
A Brit woman sold her unwanted things to start a new life abroad. But while she loves it, she misses one unusual thing about British life in particular.
Beth Hackman made £3,000 selling her unwanted clothes on Vinted to fund her dream move to Australia. She sold more than 600 items, including unwanted clothes, shoes and accessories on the app.
The 25 year old used the funds to pay for a flight, visa and accommodation in Sydney in March this year. Now she has started a new life as a physiotherapist.
But despite loving her new life, she does miss one aspect of life on the UK high street you perhaps wouldn’t expect. She said: “I’m loving Australia because of the work-life balance. I’m working fewer hours here than in the UK and making the same salary equivalent. I miss my family so much because I’m so close with them but I message and call them every day. Other than that I miss a Tesco meal deal.”
She decided to sell most of her clothes after realising she had far too many things. Beth listed everything from gym wear and occasion dresses to her brother’s prom suit and even a pair of Alexander McQueen trainers, which sold for £200.
“I’d just accumulated too much and hated how much was generally fast fashion,” Beth, from Windsor, Berkshire, said. “Moving to Australia has been a dream for around three years.
“I actually got to the point just before I went travelling that I sold all of my shoes so I just had my gym and running trainers or a random pair of heels left. I’d say I’ve sold at least 600 items and that much was just sat in my wardrobe.”
She believes many households are sitting on hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds worth of unwanted possessions without realising it. Beth said: “I would 100% encourage people to declutter if they’re saving for a major life goal. People don’t realise how much they could make.
“I think we’re all over consumers. Some of my friends have obscene amounts of clothes. Also, I feel better buying things second hand and also recycling my own clothes on Vinted. I wear a dress once and then sell it rather than let it sit in my wardrobe.”
Beth believes many people miss out on making easy money simply because they don’t present their listings properly. She also believes detailed descriptions and quick postage make a huge difference, helping her build positive reviews that encouraged more buyers.
Beth said: “Taking good photos with a clean background is key. I also used a mannequin sometimes. Good descriptions are important. I had a postage locker on my way to work so always posted things quickly so got lots of good reviews.
“I think people initially put things up for way too much. People on Vinted want a bargain and won’t pay normal resell prices. I will always negotiate. I’d rather it be sold and out of my house and lose out on 50p than be set on prices. Although some people do take the p***.
“Photos and descriptions really matter to me as a buyer and I wouldn’t buy from someone who looks like they don’t put effort in so I make sure my posts looks better.” Beth first downloaded Vinted around five years ago, but not with the intention of making money.
Instead, she used the resale platform as a savvy shopping tool, searching for designer pieces to see how they looked on real people before buying them new. She said: “I started to use it as a platform to double check a product.
“If I wanted a dress from House of CB, I’d search it on Vinted to see how it looked on real bodies and to compare sizes. I like to think I’m clever for this. It’s basically picture reviews.”
A mum-of-three who left the UK three years ago and moved her family across the world has said the biggest reason for moving abroad was how expensive things are at home
The mum left the UK for a gorgeous and much cheaper country (stock photo)(Image: Getty Images)
A mum-of-three has claimed her “life is better” after taking her family across the world to escape the cost-of-living crisis. Many Brits have been feeling the pinch over the past few years, with the cost of everything from food to energy bills and petrol costs skyrocketing and leaving everyone with less money in their pockets.
But while many of us look at ways we can cut our spending by being more frugal with our food shopping or cutting back on family holidays, one mum has taken matters into her own hands – by moving somewhere more affordable. Lucy Richardson shared a video on social media in which she said rising costs were one of the biggest factors in deciding to move her family abroad for a new life.
In a video shared on TikTok, Lucy explained that she, her husband, and their three young children decided to leave the UK in 2023. They now live in Bali, Indonesia, where prices are so low that she can completely fill her moped for just £4 – and the tropical weather and gorgeous views are just a bonus.
She said in her video: “The cost of living in the UK was completely out of control, and that’s why we left. We left nearly three years ago because two full-time working parents were not enough for us to sustain the life that we had in the UK.”
Lucy revealed that she and her husband were working full-time to try and support their family and pay their rent, but were finding that they were barely getting by and described their situation as “surviving” and not “living”.
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She continued: “We just felt like we were constantly chasing our tail and constantly paying stuff out. Then we had this tiny little pot left over to actually enjoy ourselves and do things that we wanted to do. Then, because there wasn’t enough money, we would put it on a credit card, and then we were in this massive circle of debt.”
The mum-of-three said she could see her family being in this cycle for years, potentially never being able to live their lives until they were retired, by which point they could be “too ill or too old” to enjoy it.
What’s more, Lucy felt like she was missing out on spending time with her three children, as they were growing up without her while she worked full-time to support them. So, the family made the decision to leave the UK and move to Bali.
She said: “It was a crazy, vicious circle that I didn’t want to be a part of. So we left. We now have a much simpler life.
“Today, we just filled up our moped for £4. The same petrol that you have in the UK, and that’s a full tank that’s going to last me for two weeks. Four quid. It’s absolutely crazy.
“Now, we have a much simpler life. We don’t have to go to a nine-to-five [job], and I get to see my kids’ childhoods. So I know what I would rather pick, and that’s why we left the UK. So many people ask, and it’s the cost of living. It was just too high.”
Many commenters on the post praised the mum for having the courage to take her family across the world for a better life, with many saying they wish they could do the same.
One person said: “Well done, you, for taking that step and leaving the UK to better your lives. We are a family of five and totally understand where you are coming from. We class ourselves as the working poor. Working but have nothing to show for it because everything goes on paying taxes and bills.”
Another added: “Agree totally, Britain is a rip off. You did right in getting out.”
A third posted: “Same here. We left six years ago for Spain and it’s so liberating. Our relatives can’t believe how much less we pay month to month here and can now appreciate why we left.”
This important question can easily cost holidaymakers extra cash
Tourists need to pick this option when paying for items abroad to avoid ‘hidden fees’(Image: Getty)
People going on holiday this summer should know this simple money mistake to avoid as it could needlessly cost you more without realising. The ‘rule’ to remember is very simple, according to money and travel experts.
Travel specialist Kate Donnelly (@Thedonelleyedit) claims that all British people heading abroad this summer should remember one important thing that could result in hidden fees when on holiday. She said that we all have the option to avoid these, even if the choice seems clear and convenient.
She said: “When you are abroad, you should always pay in the local currency. Whether that’s euros or dollars, depending on where you are, and you should never select the option of paying in Great British Pound (GBP).”
Why does it matter what you choose?
Whether you’re buying a meal or using a cash machine, you should always have the option to pay in local currency instead of DCC. Nobody should choose on your behalf.
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Kate confirmed: “When you’re abroad, and you choose to pay in pounds, you are allowing the ATM or the shop to do the exchange. Within this, there will also be a conversion charge, which is notoriously a really poor rate, meaning you will end up paying significantly more if you pay in the local currency.
“It’s your bank or the card provider that does the exchange. Even if they add on a transaction fee, you are still going to be getting a better rate if you choose to pay in pounds.”
Choosing dynamic currency conversion (DCC) means the amount is converted from the local currency to pounds at the point of sale. But, “DCC usually costs you more”, according to HSBC.
The bank said: “You might choose DCC and pay in pounds because it’s a currency you’re more familiar with. It could give you a better understanding of how much you’re spending. But there are extra fees, and the exchange rate is usually higher.”
Kate added: “The best thing to do when going on holiday is to invest in a fee-free card, such as a Monzo or a Starling. They add no transaction fees, and they also offer the best exchange rate.”
Martin Lewis previously appeared on ITV’s This Morning to talk about this exact issue. He said that the best thing to do, wherever you are in the world, is to pay in local currency to avoid inflated fees.
The Money Saving Expert says one thing that is ‘totally free’ could save holidaymakers loads of money
Martin Lewis has shared his holiday advice (file image)(Image: ITV)
Heading to Europe this summer? Before you jet off, Money Saving Expert says there’s one free card every holidaymaker should have in their wallet – and it could save them money.
The Money Saving Expert has issued a reminder to travellers to get the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) just in case of an emergency. It can help you access state healthcare in many European countries, however he stresses this shouldn’t be a replacement for travel insurance.
Speaking as part of the National Money Assembly held at St Charles 6th Form College in London, Lewis urged anyone heading to the continent to apply for a GHIC before leaving the UK. He explained how the card is “totally free”, and warned people to never pay a third-party website to apply for one.
“First of all, if you’re going to Europe, you always get your GHIC card, your Global Health Insurance Card,” he said. “That’s totally free, never pay for it. This gives you treatment in a state-run hospital in a European Union country or equivalent at the same cost as a local – so if it’s free for them, it’s free for you.
“If you need to go and see the doctor when you’re abroad and local people don’t pay for the GP, you can go to the GP with your GHIC card. So you should make sure that you have one of those.”
The NHS says the GHIC covers medically necessary healthcare during a temporary stay in the EU and certain other countries. However, it does not cover private medical treatment, mountain rescue, being flown back to the UK or costs such as lost or stolen belongings.
For that reason, Martin Lewis says holidaymakers should never rely on the GHIC alone. He urged travellers to arrange travel insurance as soon as they book a holiday, explaining that it protects them both before and during their trip.
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He said basic travel insurance for a young person spending a week in Europe can often cost as little as £7 to £10. Martin added: “If you can afford the holiday, you can afford travel insurance.”
His long-standing rule is to buy travel insurance “ASAB” – as soon as you book. That’s because policies can protect you if illness, injury or another unforeseen event forces you to cancel your holiday before you even leave home.
Applications for a GHIC are free through the official NHS website, and most people can apply online. Anyone using a website that charges a fee is paying for a service they do not need, as the card itself is available free of charge.
A cabin crew instructor has revealed where he would choose to sit on the plane
16:40, 10 Jul 2026Updated 16:40, 10 Jul 2026
Some seats offer plane passengers more legroom (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
A cabin crew member has shared what he claims is the best seat on the plane. The regular flyer dished out advice for passengers looking to make the most of their journey. Wizz Air Cabin Crew Instructor Gabriel Randone shared his favourite seat. He also revealed the best seat for ‘free perks’ – if you’re lucky enough to get it.
Talking to the Mirror, Gabriel shared his preferred seat as a passenger. He said: “I absolutely love the front. Row one gives you extra legroom. There are some perks to staying there as well.
“For example, you would be the first one to disembark. Sometimes you’ll be the first one to come in as well. You have a reserved overhead compartment for yourself.
“So, yeah, row one is absolutely amazing. But to be honest, when I do travel, and I can choose to book a seat, I will book any window seat.
“I just love staring outside during the flight and enjoying the views.” According to Wizz Air’s website, front-row seats are classified as premium seats.
However, it’s not the only good option. Other premium seats include upfront seats at the front of the aircraft and extra-legroom seats in the emergency exit rows. Usually, passengers need to pay more for these seats, but sometimes they strike it lucky and get asked to move to emergency exit rows.
Gabriel explained that customers sometimes get ‘upgraded’ to these seats and get to enjoy the perks for free when the flight is not fully booked. “Sometimes, because the flights might not be fully booked, there would be no one close to the emergency exits”, Gabriel said.
“So what we need to do is to select someone who we call an ABP, an able-bodied person, and select them and to move them close to the emergency exits so that they can help out in case of an emergency”. He added: “Now, statistically, emergencies are quite rare, so that is basically an upgrade.”
Not everyone is eligible for these unofficial ‘upgrades’. The Wizz Air website explains: “For safety purposes, regulations prohibit passengers under 16 years old, overweight passengers, individuals with special needs, expectant mothers, and those travelling with infants (under 2 years old) from occupying Extra Legroom or Front Row seats.”
As Gabriel explained, these policies are implemented to ensure the safety of everyone onboard. In case of an emergency evacuation, passengers seated in the emergency rows will be instructed to open the doors. Any passengers seated in these rows will be briefed at the beginning of their flight.
A British mum took her kids out of school for a family holiday ended up receiving a £160 fine – but says the overall saving on the trip meant it was worth it
Charlie Watton and Julie Delahaye Travel Editor & Commercial Content Lead
11:29, 07 Jul 2026Updated 11:30, 07 Jul 2026
Thea received a fine for taking her 5-year-old out of school(Image: Jam Press/@thearule)
A mum slapped with a £160 fine for taking her son out of school for a family holiday says she has no regrets because ultimately she saved £1,280 on her trip.
Thea Rule decided to take her son Roman, five, out of school to jet off for a week in Majorca, after her request for authorised absence was refused by the school.
“I don’t care what anyone says, he’s in reception class and we’re getting on that plane,” Thea told NeedToKnow. “I believe that my child should be able to enjoy family time with us. I asked via a handwritten letter but was refused. He is in reception class and we did not think it would impact his learning.”
Thea claims the same holiday during the school holidays would have cost an eye-watering £1,440 more because of soaring travel prices. The school issued her with a £160 fine, but the family still saved £1,280 overall by travelling during term time.
She said: “I would never consider taking Roman away during term time if he was doing his SATS or GCSEs. But a week off at the age of five…we as his parents did not believe it would hinder his education. He experienced culture, social interactions and learned other bits along the way.
“Roman was able to learn about the old town of Alcudia, go swimming and snorkelling with sea wildlife and enjoy time with us and his younger brother, all things I believe to be fantastic experiences. Roman is successful at school and is on course to meet his learning outcomes before the end of the year.”
Thea said the huge difference in holiday prices was the main reason behind the decision, and claimed that after she shared her story online, dozens of parents backed her stance.
After sharing her story online, she claimed that dozens of parents backed her stance.
Thea said: “They all agreed reception is not a school year that requires as much attendance as other years. I thanked them for understanding and I know others do the same. We were honest and requested the holiday but others I know say their children are sick and therefore don’t get fined for taking their children out.”
The mother-of-two has encouraged other parents to book holidays strategically if they are looking to save money, adding that she believes the memories made with family outweighed the worrying about fines.
While for Thea and her family there was a saving to be had, there’s one little-known rule around term-time fines that families should be aware of. A lot of parents don’t realise that the fine isn’t applied per family, but per parent per child.
Fines also need to be paid as soon as they are issued. In England, the initial fine per person is £80 if paid within 21 days, but jumps to £160 if paid within 28 days.
But with the per parent/child rule, that means if two adults go away with two children, you could instantly be facing a cost of up to £320. Meanwhile, a second offence could see you hit with a higher £160 fine, so for a family of four that could be £640 total; depending on your choice of holiday and timing, that may negate the savings potentially gained from travelling inside school holidays.
Still, it’s no surprise that parents like Thea are still choosing to take kids out of school and face the fines instead. Travel prices notoriously hike up during the school holidays, sometimes even tripling including UK holiday parks.
Do you think parents should be fined for taking their kids out of school for holidays? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
Finding the best price can be tough, as you can book early to snap up a bargain or leave it until the last minute to secure cheap airline seats that haven’t sold out. When looking for flights, prices can also change by the day.
Airlines can use dynamic pricing to raise or lower ticket prices based on demand. Some people have claimed that booking websites can collect information from your browsing history and increase prices because they know you are interested.
It has been suggested to use private or incognito mode and to clear cookies before searching to get the best price. However, expert Simon has given his own verdict on the travel hack, branding it “nonsense”.
On his Travel Expert with Simon Calder podcast, he was asked if using incognito mode works and if it makes bookings cheaper. Simon replied: “Thank goodness for this [question], we have got the chance to get rid of this nonsense absolutely.
“It is an urban myth, and I will of course be delighted to learn if somebody has absolutely got video footage of somebody with a computer with cookies on and cookies without.
“The thought is that ‘oh, we know that Greg is looking for flights, so therefore next time he goes on, we will put the price up to grab all his money’. It doesn’t work like that.”
Simon explained that prices do sometimes change when looking for them because other people have booked onto the same flight.
He said: “We are lucky enough to be living in a very competitive era where airlines are charging whatever they can get away with. If the price has increased since the last time you looked, it’s only because someone like me has come along and booked seats.”
If you already have a holiday booked this summer, Simon previously shared a stark warning to ensure it doesn’t end up “wrecked”. The expert explained that “thousands upon thousands” of travellers have already been caught out and missed their long-awaited breaks.
Brits travelling to EU or Schengen area destinations cannot hold passports that are older than 10 years upon arrival at their holiday destination. The passport must also remain valid for a minimum of three months beyond the date you intend to return home.
Simon appeared on BBC Radio 2 to encourage everyone with holidays booked to check their passports before it’s too late.
He said: “You must remember, if you are going to the EU apart from Ireland, you cannot have a passport older than 10 years on the day you enter. It is the only part of the world that cares about when your passport is issued.
“Everywhere else only cares about the expiry date. Please, if you are going away in June, July, and August, please check that your passport will comply.
“Has it had its 10th birthday on the day you plan to go away, and has it got at least three months left on the date you plan to leave? That way, we can hopefully avoid too many more wrecked holidays.”
The consumer experts shared a money-saving hack for holidaymakers this summer
11:45, 29 Jun 2026Updated 12:45, 29 Jun 2026
Martin Lewis founded MoneySavingExpert (stock photo)(Image: ITV)
MoneySavingExpert (MSE) has issued an alert for holidaymakers who still need to book their hotel or rental car. The consumer advice website, founded by journalist and broadcaster Martin Lewis, regularly shares tips for Brits.
In a recent social media post, the experts shared advice for people making travel bookings. Posting on X, MSE advised consumers to choose bookings that offer free cancellation if possible. The experts explained that travellers can use this tactic to get the best deal on their booking, as they can simply cancel and rebook if prices go down.
MSE wrote: “Top travel tip: Try to book a hotel or car hire with free cancellation. Why? Because if the price drops, you can simply cancel and rebook at this cheaper rate!” The post asked social media user to share their experiences in the comments.
The post asked: “Have you ever done this successfully? How much did you save?” In response, several MSE fans shared their own success stories.
For example, a commenter named Kathryn replied: “I’ve done this with a hotel. Got a much better grade room and saved about £50 on the price the original room would have cost! I usually try to do this now. I book the new room first though before cancelling the existing one… Just in case!”
Another social media user said: “I’ve done this for a hotel booking. Made a great saving on original booking price but found my room was at the furthest point away from the reception / dining areas. A good trade off in that situation.”
Someone else said they managed to find their £160 car hire reduced to just £80 using a similar tactic when they visited Portugal last year. Similarly, a commenter with another car story said they had booked their rental car three times, starting with an initial price of almost £300 and getting it down to £121, despite using the same rental company to book the same car.
They explained: “Pre-Christmas price over £300. 1st booking March £285. 2nd booking £185 early May. 3rd time mid-May £121.” Praising the method, the social media user added: “Refunded each time within four days. Result!”
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Sharing another success story, a holidaymaker claimed to save £400 on a trip to New York. The comment read: “£400 saved on a trip to NYC. Free cancellation costs more but the flexibility makes it worth it.”
Not only is the suitcase a great price, but its wheels can be removed to help it meet the requirements. Ryanair is one of the most popular airlines in the UK, offering cheap flights to a number of destinations. Its bag rules state: “All fares include one small personal bag (40 x 30 x 20 cm) that must fit under the seat.”
Talking about the free bag, it adds that the small personal bag “such as a handbag or laptop bag” must adhere to its measurements and “fit under the seat in front of you. If you need additional baggage allowance, there are various options available to you.”
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It adds: “Additional options include Priority boarding with a second 10kg cabin bag, checked bags of 10kg, 20kg (up to 3), or 23kg (1 allowed). Infants have no cabin allowance but may bring a 5kg baby bag and two baby equipment items free.”
Focusing on the small personal bag size, and creating five TikTok videos on the bag alone, Chelsea Dickenson, who has appeared on shows like This Morning to share her tips, said she loves the suitcase and is “genuinely impressed with the quality for something that’s fairly affordable.”
Trying to fit the case into the bag size checker, she showed that it didn’t fit. That was until she took off the wheels.
It also remained below the red line, suggesting it met the airline’s standards, and thankfully, she got through security with no issues. Not only does it meet pre-boarding size requirements, but she also demonstrates that it fits neatly under the seat, describing it as “super slim.”
And if you’re wondering where you pop the wheels, she reveals: “It comes with a cloth bag that you can pop the wheels into. These are best put in your pocket – so remember to wear something with pockets big enough! Otherwise, you could pop it back in the suitcase.”
But be careful. In one of her videos on the £25 bag, she says she ended up losing a wheel and advises others to ensure the wheels click securely back into place when reattaching them.
What happens at the boarding gate if my cabin bags are bigger than my allowance?
Ryanair state: “You must adhere strictly to the baggage allowance on your booking. If your small bag or 10kg cabin bag does not fit in the baggage sizers, it will be refused at the boarding gate, or where available, placed in the hold of the aircraft for a fee at the level set out in our Regulations.
“You will be required to leave your bags at the aircraft steps, in the gate bag trolley, or as directed by Ryanair agents, for stowage in the hold.”
Robert decided to leave the UK after spending over £3,000 a month just to get by – and he loves his new life
Robert Hoadley has started a new life abroad(Image: Jam Press/@seaturkeyadventures)
A Brit has ditched life in the UK to live well for just £800 a month – and he’s loving it. Now he drinks £2 pints on the beach and saves thousands on bills.
Robert Hoadley decided to up sticks after realising he was stuck in a cycle of working long hours just to cover rising costs. The 45-year-old had barely travelled and spent years grafting in construction before deciding enough was enough.
Now he’s living more than 6,000 miles away in Chiang Mai, Thailand, to work as a content creator, and says life couldn’t be more different. “I felt like I was just working to cover bills with no real freedom,” Robert, from Portsmouth, said.
“The cost of living in the UK kept going up, and I wanted a different lifestyle – less stress and more control of my time. I got to a point where I didn’t want to wait until retirement to actually start living life, so I decided to take the leap, sell everything I owned, and move out here.
“It’s definitely been a big change, but the lifestyle and day-to-day life here feels a lot better.” Since relocating in 2025, Robert has been working online, creating content about the cost of living and relocating abroad.
He’s currently building various online income streams so he can work remotely. His social media platform, Sea Turkey Adventures, already boasts over 6,000 followers with some of his clips racking up over 200,000 views.
Robert says he’s happier, more active and finally enjoying a proper work-life balance. And despite pints costing just £2, he insists he’s actually drinking less – although the one thing he misses most about UK is the sarcastic sense of humour.
Robert said: “I enjoyed going out in the UK, but these days it’s more balanced. I drink socially now rather than out of habit. There are more lifestyle options here like gyms, cafés, pools and being outdoors. I’m much more focused on health and routine now. I wake up earlier, train regularly, spend more time outdoors, and I’m more conscious of how I spend my time and money.
“In the evenings I’m nearly always out doing something social, even if it’s just meeting people for food or coffee rather than drinking.” The UK’s cost-of-living crunch was a major factor behind his move. Robert says he was spending more than £3,000 a month back home but now lives comfortably on just £800.
‘Money goes so far abroad’
He said: “That’s the biggest difference – you’re not constantly under financial pressure. A lot of people don’t realise how far your money can go abroad, and how different life can feel when you’re not constantly stressed about bills. I did look at other countries, but Thailand just made sense – good food, friendly people, strong expat community, and you can live well here for a fraction of UK costs.”
He also says the slower pace of life has made a huge difference. He said: “In the UK, people can seem stressed, the weather can be grey for long periods, and it often feels like everyone is rushing through life. Here, the climate is better, the people are generally more relaxed, and there’s a friendlier vibe overall. A lot of people are either on holiday or choosing to be here, so the energy feels more positive.
“It just suits me more at this stage of life.” But it’s not all perfect – and Robert admits he still misses some things from home. He added: “I miss friends and family, obviously. Also the humour – that UK sarcasm and banter is hard to replace. I miss certain foods and the traditional pub atmosphere. Every country has things you appreciate once you leave.”
Hotels.com’s 2026 Hotel Price Index has identified the top 10 destinations where you can enjoy a five-star stay on a budget – with some high-end options available from as little as £70 a night
12:00, 09 Jun 2026Updated 14:11, 09 Jun 2026
These are the top destinations for luxury stays on a budget(Image: Getty Images)
The top 10 destinations offering five-star stays on a budget have been revealed. Despite unpredictable travel costs, securing a luxury holiday without breaking the bank is entirely achievable – with high-end range accommodation available for as low as £70.
The findings from Hotels.com’s 2026 Hotel Price Index drew on internal booking information and a worldwide survey of 11,000 travellers from the UK, USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, France, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and South Korea.
Travel expert and spokesperson Melanie Fish said: “Travellers may be feeling the squeeze, but they’re also getting smarter. “With increasing volatility in travel prices this summer, fuel costs may be dominating the conversation, but hotel prices are where travellers are making real trade-offs.”
The research revealed that luxury breaks in Croatia, Estonia, Zaragoza, Spain and Bulgaria can also be enjoyed for less than £150 a night.
The Index also uncovered other affordable yet indulgent alternatives destinations, including stays in Wrocław, Poland (£120), Tirana, Albania (£130) and Riga, Latvia (£130). Five-star accommodation can be found in the UK as well – with options in Brighton (£115), Cornwall (£135) and Liverpool (£170).
Alongside identifying 10 of the most budget-friendly destinations, the research highlighted 10 notable locations that have experienced significant price reductions over the past year – including Loire, France (down 32%) and Edmonton, Canada (down 31%).
Additional destinations include St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands (down 30%), Dortmund, Germany (down 21%) and Turin, Italy (also down 21%).
Surprisingly, the findings showed that booking last minute can actually save money, with hotel rates up to 26% cheaper when reserving closer to your departure date. For those seeking to reduce expenses even further, the data revealed prices are 14% lower for Sunday stays – with Saturdays proving the most costly.
Escaping in January delivers the best value, while the second week of July commands the highest rates – domestically at least.
Hotels.com’s global study, conducted through OnePoll, also disclosed what tops everyone’s luxury dream wish list – a hot tub with a view (44%) followed by a penthouse suite (41%).
When questioned about what defines a genuinely luxurious hotel experience, exceptional food at the hotel (31%), a room with a view (30%) and premium in-room amenities (28%) emerged as the top priorities.
TEN OF THE CHEAPEST FIVE-STAR STAYS ABROAD:
Nha Trang, Vietnam (£70)
Zaragoza, Spain (£120)
Wrocław, Poland (£120)
Tirana, Albania (£130)
Riga, Latvia (£130)
Zagreb, Croatia (£130)
Sofia, Bulgaria (£135)
Heraklion (Crete), Greece (£135)
Tallinn, Estonia (£140)
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (£140)
TEN OF THE BIGGEST INTERNATIONAL PRICE DROPS YEAR-ON-YEAR:
The money-saving experts shared a tip for people booking expensive holiday destinations
The tip could help holidaymakers save money (stock photo)(Image: Getty)
A savvy travel tip could help holidaymakers save money on trips to expensive destinations. MoneySavingExpert (MSE), founded by journalist and broadcaster Martin Lewis, often shares money-saving tips for the public. According to a previous blog post from the MSE team, some travellers could save money by booking a hotel they don’t need.
The experts explained that package holidays can sometimes offer better deals than scheduled flights for certain destinations. So travellers could save money by booking their flight as part of a package deal, then booking their preferred accommodation, assuming they’re not keen on the hotel included with the package.
MSE said: “Scheduled flights to some destinations, such as Orlando and Sri Lanka, can be silly money, yet packages there can sometimes come in much cheaper. If you only need the flight, check if there’s a cheaper package holiday, then grab it but DON’T stay in the hotel.”
The guidance added that Martin has previously had success with the trick, helping a friend book a holiday to Sri Lanka. MSE said the passenger paid £300 for the holiday to cover their flights, when the cheapest scheduled deal was over £1,000.”
In another blog post dedicated to cheap package holidays, MSE reiterates the advice. The experts explained: “If you’re going away specifically for seven, 10 or 14 days to a traditional holiday destination, package holidays are often best. They can sometimes be much cheaper than booking a scheduled flight… even if you DON’T want to use the hotel.
“For example, we found flights for a seven-day trip to Florida for £689 per person – a package holiday for the same dates was just £662 per person. It won’t always work, but it’s worth a try.”
When checking flight prices, passengers may wish to compare prices on sites such as Skyscanner. Booking on different days could help customers find the best deals.
Skyscanner says: “Flight pricing changes constantly based on demand, season and route. There’s no fixed ‘cheapest day’ to book but with the right tools, you can stay informed.
“Historically, Skyscanner pricing trends have shown that some airlines release deals late on Mondays, which may lead to lower fares early in the week. Prices tend to rise again as the week progresses and demand increases.”
Some holidaymakers wait until the last minute for deals. Skyscanner explains: “On quieter routes or off-peak travel days, prices may drop as the departure date approaches. But on popular routes or peak dates, fares often increase as the flight fills up.”
