Weekend Getaways on a Budget!

Are you longing for a break but worried about breaking the bank? FOMOing at your more travelled peers’ Instagram stories? In a world of budget options, you don’t need to stash away heaps of your loan to enjoy a fantastic weekend getaway around your studies. With just a few savvy tips and tricks, jetting off can be feasible and wallet-friendly! Here’s your comprehensive guide to planning a cheap escape from London while residing in LSE halls.

Destination Dexterity

It’s important to recognise that cheaper holidays will mean cheaper destinations - but also that ‘cheaper’ doesn’t have to mean worse! Choosing the right destination is crucial for a fun, budget-conscious getaway. Look for places accessible by affordable transportation options, such as low-cost airline WizzAir or even a coach. Much of mainland Europe is available via such providers, including France and Italy as well as warmer countries like Morocco! You’ll find great options via Skyscanner and TrainPal, platforms which use split ticketing to provide you with the best deals - don’t forget to take into account transfers between your arrival point and your hotel.

Budget-Friendly Accommodation

Give Airbnb a miss and jump into finding cheap hostels, backpacker-focused hotels, and bed-and-breakfasts. I would personally recommend A&O Hostels (which operate throughout Europe) for their great service and comfortability, and there are thousands of equally accommodating options that are just a Google search away. Staying in a more community-based environment can also be a fantastic way to engage with the true culture of a country, tucked away from tourist areas! You could meet people from all over the world, offering a culturally enriching experience. Consider sharing accommodation costs with friends to further reduce expenses.

Explore Local Destinations

If you’re from the UK originally this may not be the best option for you, but it is easy to forget there are plenty of holiday-ready destinations a short journey away. See the sights of the White Cliffs of Dover, venture out to Stonehenge, or immerse yourself in a city break in Manchester or Liverpool to witness another side of this diverse country. In the warmer months, Welsh beaches and the Lake District offer fantastic views and a plethora of local activities; mountain hiking, candle-making, and lake swimming are my highlights! The great thing about nearby getaways is that most can also be experienced as day trips, meaning you won’t have to worry about accommodation costs.

Off-Peak Perks

Timing is key! Opt for off-peak travel times when fares are typically lower. I find it useful to research English primary and secondary school term dates, as prices will be higher when families can take their children abroad. Travelling on weekdays also offers cheaper rates for transportation and accommodation, so consider travelling out on Friday night and returning on Monday morning if this works with your timetable. And don’t be afraid to visit a country when it’s cold - lower demand leads to lower costs (as I’m sure you’ll know as an LSE student), and city breaks don’t worsen with the weather! Plus, attractions might be less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Take a Gamble

The £99 Mystery Holiday is a fairly new phenomenon, but with descriptions boasting destinations such as Japan, the USA, and Barbados, why not be brave this term and book one of these unique experiences? Discount website Wowcher promises anything from a ‘2 Night Costa Brava Beach Escape’ to a ‘14 Night Egypt Nile Cruise’ for your money, with the catch, of course, being that you can’t select which getaway you end up with. Some online articles state some holidays come with extra costs so do proceed with caution, but reviews are generally very positive. If you’d prefer a warmer holiday, you can select July- and August-specific tickets for an additional £30.