Budget Holiday Ideas in France

Recent surveys show that people are still planning to take holidays, but the reality is that they will cut back on weekend breakaways or go for a week to ten days rather than two weeks.

With the weak Pound against the Euro it’s time to think of ways to holiday on a budget. There are various options, for example, going on holiday for a shorter period, house swaps and camping, stay with friends, mobile homes, youth hostels and farms with rooms. Camping has become increasingly popular, between Cath Kidston tents and tepees it has never been so chic!

Think about whether a house swap would work for you, they can be cheap and convenient and if you swap with a family of a similar age then the kids will have plenty of toys, bikes and highchairs. As with all things it’s worth doing your research, exchange emails and photos of your homes. You'll need to leave your place looking clean and tidy, but it should look equally as good on your return. Try and think about the information you would like to know about someone else’s home and area and do the same for yours. Compile a guide to your home (explaining any little quirks or possible problems) and the local area such as the nearest supermarket, places of interest, train station etc.

Another alternative is if you enjoy the outdoors there is nothing better than escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life and waking up to peace and tranquillity. If you’re new to camping and not sure whether you’ll enjoy it you could help to keep costs down by borrowing equipment. Smaller sites with fewer facilities tend to charge less per pitch, and they are often in the most beautiful spots. Going with a group of friends can help cut costs but also help with the work of putting the tents up etc! Go well prepared with clothing and equipment, for a suggested checklist go to our ‘Camping Checklist’. For more information on camping holidays read our ‘Camping in the Charente’ article.