Money-saving holiday hacks for 'cheaper fares and more flexibility' on Sunshine Saturday bookings

With so many people ready to book their getaways, travel experts are stepping in with advice on how to bag a genuine deal and sidestep common booking mistakes.

Be flexible with your dates and destinations

Sean Doolan at Swinton Travel Insurance suggested flexibility is your best friend when hunting for a bargain.

Prices tend to drop for lesser-known spots and off-peak times, particularly after the Christmas rush. Those seeking a European hidden gem can consider one of six affordable yet quieter options.

Switching up your departure airport can also save you a fair bit, since fares to the same destination vary wildly depending on where you fly from.

Doolan said: "If you can, flying mid-week, or on an early or late flight could also allow you to score cheaper fares."

With many Britons now pivoting from festive city break to summer holiday planning, popular winter destinations are often quieter and cheaper after Christmas.

Book flights and accommodation separately

Package holidays might seem convenient, but they're not always the cheapest option. The travel expert recommended shopping around and booking your flights and accommodation separately for potentially better value.

The travel pro continued: "Packages do offer convenience and protection, but booking separately can provide more flexibility and potentially lower costs. Avoid overspending by setting an overall budget and sticking to it."

When weighing your options, consider the total cost of individual bookings to make sure you know exactly what's included.

Check the fine print and be wary of hidden additional costs

Another top tip is to watch out for sneaky fees, strict cancellation policies, and awkward flight times buried in the terms and conditions.

Doolan said: "Check what's included in your holiday, knowing that there is often an extra cost for baggage, transfers, and seat selections. Many sale fares can be non-refundable, so know what you're committing to before booking."

Sign up for alerts and stay updated

Registering for airline and travel alerts can give you early access to the best offers, according to the expert. While some providers launch sales before Christmas, others hold off until January.

Book travel insurance as soon as you book a trip

Your travel insurance only kicks in from the moment you buy it, meaning if something goes wrong before your trip - like illness or a cancellation - you won't be able to claim back your holiday costs without a policy in place.

The expert explained: "So, buying travel insurance immediately after booking can help ensure you're covered for any cancellations."

Cover also protects you during your holiday if you fall ill, lose luggage, or face flight delays.

Doolan said: "Don't just choose the cheapest option either. A lower premium might seem appealing, but cheaper policies often come with limited protection, high excesses, or exclusions that could leave you vulnerable."