The money saving team at PromotionalCodes.org.uk has compiled the top ways to save money on a winter holiday.

“As more people are heading abroad for a snowy getaway, people forget to spend time avoiding extra costs,” said Darren Williams of PromotionalCodes.org.uk.

“Simple suggestions such as using public transport instead of taxis and checking out free art exhibitions will make your holiday authentic and cheap.”

Turn your data off

As soon as you are at the airport, it is time to turn off your mobile data. Network providers can charge a fortune for using 3G to send a text, so switch it off at the source for the whole holiday.

If you still want to check the Internet, keep an eye out for public Wi-Fi points.

Pay cash

Avoid using your debit or credit card abroad. Banks can charge a lot for payments and withdrawals, so always ensure you have plenty of cash for your holiday.

If you are desperate, use a cashpoint instead of using your card directly in a shop or restaurant.

Pack light but warm

If you are travelling on a short break and are only taking a small amount of luggage, you need to be sensible with your packing to avoid being charged extra at the airport.

Wear one warm coat and all your other outerwear on the plane, and pack lots of layers in to your luggage.

Keep your phone away from the snow

If you are going anywhere with snow or rain do not leave your phone or camera in your pocket. Hide it away in a plastic bag in your normal bag or make use of any inner pockets in your coat or jacket.

Borrow ski gear from a friend

If you are going skiing, resist the temptation to shell out money before you go. If you know friends who are regular skiers, why not ask to borrow some gear?

Borrowing a pair of boots or a jacket could save you a lot of money, and if you still need to get other essentials try looking in charity shops for people’s unused kit.

Stay off the beaten track

If you are jetting off on a city break then watch out for high tourist prices. The closer to the city centre you get the more you will be charged for hotels and food.

Try heading somewhere a bit more off the beaten track and you will  find cheaper prices plus more authentic experiences.

Don’t park at the airport

Airports offer seemingly good deals on parking spaces but in reality they are completely unnecessary.

Ask a friend if they could drop you off/pick you up or have a look at public transport. There is bound to be a bus or train that will take you right to the airport for a fraction of the cost.

Download a free map app before travelling

Before you travel download any free apps that are relevant to your chosen destination. Having built in maps and tourist advice means you will have all the info you need at your fingertips without having to shell out on data or guidebooks.

Check your EHIC is still valid

One of the most important things to take on holiday with you is your European Health Insurance Card which can get you free or discounted medical treatment across the UK.

All UK citizens are entitled to one, but many often forget to renew theirs before taking a trip. Should you need any medical help while abroad, not having a valid EHIC with you could cost you a hefty sum.

Make a packed lunch

Staying in self-catered accommodation is a cost-effective way to go skiing and to see some of Europe’s best cities.

Consider hiring an apartment or chalet and make all your meals at home before heading out for the day to save cash.

Buy a tourist pass

Many of the big tourist cities in Europe offer ‘tourist cards’ where you pay one lump sum to then get into museums and tourist attractions either for free or for a heavily discounted rate.

More often than not, they add up to a sizeable saving on admission fees and ticket prices.

Make the most of public transport

Resist the temptation to jump in a taxi or to spend your days on a sightseeing bus. Instead, research the local public transport before you go and you will quickly pick up how to use their local trams or buses whilst saving yourself a lot of money in the process.

Set your heating on a timer

Be careful not to turn off the heating completely whilst you are away. Set a timer so the heating comes on once a day for just an hour, and it’ll prevent any problems, such as frozen pipes, from occurring.

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