You book your flights, sit back and think ‘wow, I just spent an awful lot’, and that is before your holiday has even started.

The true price of a holiday only reveals itself afterwards when you are sat back in the cold UK with sunburn asking what went wrong and how you ended up spending so much. After all, it was only one or two meals out, that unexpected trip to the wildlife resort, snorkelling and hiring a kayak to entertain the kids.

The long and the short of it is that holidays cost. However, with careful planning and following the top tips (outlined below), they don’t need to bankrupt you.

1. Plan Ahead
   Probably the most obvious piece of advice, however planning ahead really does save you money because flights and hotels are cheaper. If you book well in advance you will be surprised by the amazing deals you can bag. easyJet Holidays in Turkey are notoriously good value if you get in there quick; so if you are ever bored on a cold winter’s day why not look toward the summer and all the incredible holidays you could take.
2. Pack Light
   Packing light is always a good idea because it means you can avoid paying extra charges for excess baggage. If you are going away for seven days it is recommended you pack a small bag; people always bring too much luggage when they go away. Another advantage to packing light is that you will find your hotel room is a lot less cluttered.
3. Eating Out on a Budget
   The most expensive thing on holiday is often food and drink, with drinks particularly costly if you get a bit carried away at the bar. Yes, holidays are the time to indulge but not at the cost of your savings account. Try to strike a balance; eat out on some nights and go self-catered for the rest. Some all-inclusive deals will undoubtedly save you money, especially if drinks are included too.
4. Be OK Doing Nothing
   Pricey excursions can add up so make sure your holiday is balanced. Some time can be spent poolside or beachside with a cocktail or drink in hand and a good book, while other days can be spent getting out and about.
5. Read Reviews and Shop Around
   Often the best tips about saving money are given by seasoned travellers who know the pitfalls in certain countries, so read up well before you travel. Also, don’t just go with the first company you find, search for competitive deals.
6. Get Friendly with a Local
   If you know a local well they can tell you the best places to go on the cheap and how to avoid hidden charges. If you get really friendly local they might even take you around themselves; a great way to see any city is with a native of the region.
7. Avoid Tourist Spots
   Places that tourists hang out in will always be more expensive without a doubt, so avoid overly populated bars and similar outlets if you can.
8. Look out for Hidden Costs
   In some countries, if they put bread on the table and you eat it they charge you for it. Whereas if you go elsewhere, bread is complementary; different cultural rules apply. The best thing to do is find out about hidden costs before you travel and make sure you are not struck by any nasty surprises.
9. Get a Guide Book
   This is the best way to see a rundown of cheap eateries and bargain places to stay, so get an up-to-date guide book as soon as you can.
10. Bagging a Cheap Flight
    If you want cheap holidays 2011 is the year to find them with tonnes of cheap flight deals to be found online.

Get looking for your perfect break in the sun and if you follow all the advice outlined above you will be sure to enjoy a great holiday without spending too much money. – Travel Feeder, your ultimate photo travel blog