Holiday maths: Where does your money go further?

Whether it’s because they boast affordable meals and drinks or because hotels tend to be packed with pools, entertainment and extras, some destinations make it easier to get more from your holiday budget. Great-value deals can often be found in destinations like Turkey, Egypt and Greece. Flexible travellers may also find extra savings by booking a last-minute holiday.

But getting a good deal doesn’t always mean booking the cheapest holiday you can find. Paying a little more upfront could mean spending less once you’re away, especially if meals, drinks or activities are included. That’s why it pays to look beyond the headline price and add up the total cost of your trip.

Ready to do the holiday maths? Here are some of the destinations that could help your budget stretch a little further.

Best for: families, couples and All Inclusive holidays

Turkey has long been a go-to for travellers looking to make their holiday budget work harder. Meals, drinks and activities can be more affordable than in other Mediterranean destinations, while the huge choice of All Inclusive holidays makes it easier to know how much you’ll spend before you jet off.

Holiday hotspots such as Antalya, Dalaman and Marmaris offer everything from simple, budget-friendly stays to larger hotels loaded with pools, entertainment and family-friendly facilities. If pool days and plenty of time around the hotel are on the itinerary, Turkey could give you a lot of holiday for your money.

Best for: cheap holidays, groups and lively resorts

Bulgaria sometimes flies under the radar next to Europe’s bigger beach destinations, but it can be a smart choice when keeping costs down is high on your holiday wishlist.

Popular resorts such as Sunny Beach are known for affordable places to eat, drink and stay. Package holidays can be competitively priced too, while entertainment and everyday spending may cost less than in some better-known European hotspots. Some resorts may not offer the same level of luxury as pricier alternatives. But if your priority is sunshine, a nearby beach and money left over for another round, Bulgaria could tick the right boxes.

Best for: couples, families and low-cost days out

The Algarve, in Portugal, may not always have the lowest package price, but the holiday maths can still add up. Its mix of resorts and accommodation makes it easier to find a stay that suits your budget, while the coastline offers plenty of ways to fill your days without emptying your wallet.

Beach-hopping, wandering around coastal towns or simply stretching out in the sunshine can all cost very little. Food and drink prices will depend on where you stay, but heading away from the busiest tourist spots can help you find good-value local restaurants. The result? You could spend less on entertainment while still getting plenty out of your holiday.

Best for: flexible holidays, families and couples

Spain’s Costa Blanca gives budget-savvy travellers plenty of choice, especially if you're looking for a beach holiday with flexible board basis options. Resorts such as Benidorm cater to a wide range of budgets, with everything from Self Catering apartments to Half Board hotels and All Inclusive stays.

Direct flights are available from many UK airports, giving you more departure options to compare. Once you arrive, the wide choice of accommodation, restaurants and activities makes it easier to build a holiday around what you want to spend. Whether you’d rather keep costs down in an apartment or choose a hotel stay with more included, Costa Blanca lets you holiday your way.

Best for: couples, food lovers and laidback escapes

Greece can be a tale of two holiday budgets. Famous spots such as Santorini and Mykonos may come with higher prices, but looking beyond the big-name islands can uncover more affordable options.

Mainland resorts and lesser-known islands like Halkidiki, Lefkas and Skopelos can offer lower accommodation, dining and day-to-day costs, without missing out on the best bits of a Greek getaway. Think beautiful beaches, local tavernas, warm hospitality and plenty of sunshine. If you’re happy to swap the headline destinations for somewhere less famous, Greece could serve up more for your money, without sacrificing any of its classic charm.

Best for: winter sun holidays and All Inclusive hotels

If your goal is to get plenty for your money, Egypt is well worth considering. Package holidays can offer particularly good overall value during the winter months, when many travellers are looking for reliable sunshine without a long journey.

Resort areas such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh are packed with large hotels offering extensive facilities, including pools, entertainment and All Inclusive options. With so much available in one place, it can be easier to keep additional spending under control once you're there. Sightseeing and excursions can bump up the total, but travellers who plan to make the most of their hotel could find that Egypt delivers plenty of holiday for the price.

Want the quick version of the holiday maths? Here’s how the destinations compare…

Turkey

Best for: Families and All Inclusive holidays

Value factor: Competitive hotel prices and affordable day-to-day spending

Bulgaria

Best for: Beach holidays

Value factor: Lower accommodation and food costs

The Algarve

Best for: Couples and family holidays

Value factor: A mix of affordable accommodation and plenty of low-cost activities

Costa Blanca

Best for: Flexible holidays

Value factor: A wide accommodation choice across different board bases

Greece

Best for: Food and culture lovers

Value factor: More affordable options outside the major hotspots

Egypt

Best for: Winter sun seekers

Value factor: All Inclusive hotels with plenty of facilities

Getting the best value from your holiday isn't just about choosing the cheapest destination. When you travel, where you stay and what's included can have a big impact on your overall spend. A lower package price doesn't always mean better value, especially if you'll end up paying extra for meals, activities or transport. The best-value holiday is one that matches the way you like to travel, helping your budget go further without compromising on the experience.

Getting more holiday for your money isn't always about finding the cheapest trip. Some destinations help you spend less once you arrive, while others give you more included in the price. What looks like a bargain upfront can also become less budget-friendly once meals, drinks and extras start adding up. A little holiday maths before you book can go a long way. Compare the total cost, think about how you like to holiday and choose the destination that helps your budget work hardest.

Ready to put the maths into practice? Explore our latest package holiday deals or head to our Sundeals blog for destination inspiration and tips to help your holiday budget go further.

Author: Rachel Coppenhall