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Let’s be honest for a second.
Family holidays are amazing… in theory.
In reality, once you add up accommodation, food, travel, days out and the “we’re on holiday, let’s just get it” spending, the costs can spiral fast.
The good news? You don’t need an all-inclusive resort or flights booked a year in advance to have brilliant family holidays.
Some of our best memories come from simpler, more affordable trips. Especially when you’re organised and know what to expect.
So if you’re a busy mum trying to plan something fun and budget-friendly, here are some genuinely good options.
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1. UK Staycations (Still a Winner)
Honestly, the UK is underrated.
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Coastal towns with beaches, rock pools and arcades
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National parks with walks, wildlife and wide open space
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Static caravans or lodges with entertainment included
You save on flights, baggage fees and travel stress.
Plus, the kids are usually just happy with a beach and an ice cream, I know mine are.
Bees money-saving tip: Travel outside school holidays if you can, or look at lesser-known seaside towns.
Our favourites
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Cumbria (Lake District) – walks, lakes, simple days out, loads of family-friendly cottages
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Northumberland – quieter beaches, castles, great value accommodation
2. Self-Catering Family Holidays
We love doing this one the most!
Whether it’s a cottage, apartment or caravan, self-catering gives you control over costs.
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Fewer meals out
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Easy breakfasts in PJs
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Packed lunches for days out
It’s not about never eating out – it’s about choosing when you do.
Our Favourites
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Cornwall – apartment stays near beaches, easy food options, lots to do locally
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Norfolk Broads – cottages, cycling, boating, very family-friendly
3. Camping or Glamping
Camping doesn’t have to mean misery and damp socks (promise). Modern campsites often have:
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Play parks
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Pools
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Kids’ clubs
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Evening entertainment
Glamping is great if you want comfort without hotel prices – think proper beds and a kettle (essential).
Our favourites
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Forest/Centre Parcs – wildlife, bike rides, well-equipped campsites
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Pembrokeshire – coastal views, family campsites, beach days
4. Short Breaks Instead of Big Trips
A 3–4 night break can be more relaxing than a full week.
Less time = lower costs, fewer clothes to pack, and kids still get that “holiday” feeling.
Perfect for half terms or long weekends.
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Yorkshire Dales – perfect for 3–4 night breaks, walks and market towns
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Peak District – easy to reach, lots of budget-friendly accommodation
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London – free museums, big days out without accommodation costs
5. Theme Park–Style Resorts
Places like holiday parks, where everything is in one spot, can actually save money.
Once you’re there:
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Entertainment is included
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You don’t need to travel daily
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Kids are happy, so spending is easier to control
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Butlin’s (Skegness or Bognor Regis) – entertainment included, very predictable costs
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Haven Parks (Devon or Wales) – great for younger kids, flexible budgets
Bring snacks, plan meals, and set a small “treat budget”.
6. Visiting Family (With a Plan!)
Staying with family can be budget gold… if you plan it right.
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Schedule days out
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Build in downtime
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Have a rough plan so it doesn’t feel chaotic
Free accommodation + thoughtful planning = happy kids and a happier you.
7. European Destinations That Are Still Affordable
If you do want to go abroad, some places are still great value:
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Spain (outside peak season)
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Portugal – our favourite
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Parts of Eastern Europe
Apartments, local food and walkable towns keep costs down – and kids don’t care if it’s “fancy”.
The secret to budget holidays?
It’s not about going cheap. It’s about going prepared.
When you know:
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What you’re doing each day
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What you need to pack
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Where money might sneak out
Everything feels calmer, more intentional and far more enjoyable.
Want help planning without the overwhelm?
I’ve created a FREE Family Day Out Planner to help busy mums plan days out and holidays that are organised, fun and realistic (no military-level schedules here).
It helps you:
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Plan ahead without stress
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Keep costs under control
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Actually enjoy the day instead of managing chaos
Sign up, and it’s yours here.
