From self-catering to deals on attractions, we share tips for how to plan a budget holiday to beat the back-the-work blues — plus find out how to get our Holidays From £9.50

PLANNING a holiday now is the perfect way to beat the back-to-work blues.

But you don’t have to go overseas to get your fix.

Staycation searches and bookings for the UK were up almost 25 per cent last year compared to 2016, says travel marketing firm Sojern.

Here we ask EMMA COLTHURST, of , for her tips on how to enjoy a UK break on a budget.

1. Try to avoid peak times. Clearly, if you do not have school-age children, travelling outside school holidays will work out a lot cheaper. But also try to avoid bank holidays and look for out-of-season bargains during the autumn and winter months. And dodge times where there is a big event at your destination.
2. Self-cater. Opting for this rather than staying in a B&B or hotel can save you loads of money. Websites worth checking out for deals include , and .
3. Look for deals on days out and at attractions. Loyalty cards, online money saving and sites such as and can all help.
4. Eat out for less. Early-bird menus are common at the start of the week when business is slowest. Also try to make time to look online for money-off vouchers for food.
5. Beware obvious tourist traps. Restaurants in central squares and main streets can cost double and the food may not be as good, so it is always best exploring the quieter corners of the town or city you are visiting.
6. Do some free stuff. To have a good time, you do not have to pay a fortune to enter attractions. Find out where the best beaches and country walks are and which attractions and museums are free.
7. Save on fuel. Before you go away, fill up at the cheapest place in your home town — which is often a supermarket — because fuel on the motorways tends to be pricier. Use to find the cheapest pump near you.

Reader's Tip

ALEXANDRA PARITZKY, from Brighton, says: “If you live in a nice area and are prepared to let strangers borrow your house, a home swap is a great way to save on accommodation costs.

"Try Home Exchange or HomeLink.”

• SEND your tips to sunsavers@the-sun.co.uk and get 28 codes, worth £5, if yours is printed. Please include your name and town.

Save Big

TESCO has nearly 50 per cent off The-Lite Chicane large suitcase.

Eight silent-glide wheels and retractable handle.

WAS: £75

NOW: £35

SAVE: £40

Save Small

WILKO’s Slimline lunchbox, with four compartments and one small bottle, comes in three different colours.

WAS: £5

NOW: £3.75

SAVE: £1.25

• Prices correct at time of press. Deals/offers subject to availability.

2 days to go until The Sun's Holidays From £9.50

THERE are just two days to go until the return of everyone’s favourite Holidays From £9.50.

If you haven’t been on one of our brilliant bargain breaks, what are you waiting for? We have sent millions of happy Sun readers on holiday over the years and YOU can be next.
We have new locations, more dates and more availability than ever.

There are an incredible 326 holiday parks to choose from across the UK and Europe. Holidays are available between February and November 2018.