'The sweet spot for last-minute savings!' How to get the best value staycation and avoid common pricing traps

Owner of White House Hideaway Richard Edwards said there are some worthwhile tips and tricks that will ensure you get the best price, whether you want to go hiking in the Welsh mountains or sunbathe at a Cornish beach.

Shop around

Firstly, it is worth comparing total costs across all platforms as prices can vary across different websites and apps.

If going direct to the accommodations website, holidaymakers may be able to wangle a better deal, as Richard explained it often saves the acommodation owner's commission costs - "it's always worth asking if there's a direct booking discount".

Time your booking right

The travel pro explained when you book can be more important than you realise. Customers can often get early bird deals, but last-minute offers are also a great way to save.

He explained: “The sweet spot for last-minute bookings is usually Sunday to Tuesday, when operators are keen to fill gaps in their calendar.”

Watch out for 'red flag' language

You may not be getting the deal you think when reading a listing, Richard claimed. In particular, he urged Britons to be suspicious of vague terms like "luxury" if it doesn't explain what this means or give details of the amenities on offer.

Another red flag is the phrase "limited-time offer", without more information on when the offer is ending. This can often be used to create a sense of urgency and make holidaymakers feel pressured to book.

Research what to do yourself

Some accommodations will offer you a package that includes activities. While it is convenient to have your week's plans wrapped into one package, you may be paying a premium for activities that are actually free.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

• Four breathtaking British beaches where you can find 'golden sands and a tranquil atmosphere'
• Eurostar rolls out a new summer menu by Michelin-starred chef - available on trains now
• Two days in July could be the optimal time for a staycation - get 'better weather and lower prices'

Richard advised: “A quick Google search of your destination plus ‘free activities’ will usually reveal dozens of options.

"Local tourism websites are goldmines for discovering what's actually available without paying inflated booking fees."

For more advice, Richard outlined five tips to help you "easily save hundreds of pounds on your break". He said: “The staycation boom has created opportunities for some operators to take advantage of demand.

“Families might think they're getting a bargain by staying in the UK, but poor booking choices can quickly turn an affordable break into an expensive mistake.”