#ad – this article is in partnership with TopCashback
For a lot of us, Christmas means getting everyone (and everything) from A to B. Off to the grandparents, a stop at the in-laws, maybe a little getaway between Christmas and New Year. It’s brilliant, but it isn’t cheap.
Here’s how to keep festive travel costs sensible without missing out.
Book trains as early as you can
Train fares in the UK are often cheapest when booked well ahead. If you know you’re travelling on a particular day, book as soon as tickets are available. A few other tips:
- Check if a railcard suits your family. The Family & Friends Railcard can make a real difference if you travel by train a few times a year.
- Avoid the busiest days if you can. Travelling a day earlier or later can be cheaper and much calmer.
- Reserve seats. Standing from London to Leeds with a toddler is nobody’s idea of festive cheer.
Driving? Plan the route and the stops
- Get the car checked before you go. Tyres, oil, screenwash. A breakdown on the motorway on Christmas Eve is a memory you don’t want.
- Pack snacks and drinks. Motorway services prices can be eye-watering.
- Fill up before you hit the motorway where fuel is often pricier.
Use TopCashback for bookings
This is one plenty of dads overlook. TopCashback lists a range of travel companies, including hotel booking sites, car hire, holiday providers and more. If you’re booking somewhere to stay over Christmas, or planning a trip for the new year, start there:
- Head to TopCashback (sign up via our link: https://bit.ly/4yfVj8k).
- Search for the travel site you want to use.
- Click through and book as normal.
New members get a £10 bonus on a £10+ spend. Do read the cashback terms carefully for travel, as some bookings only confirm once your stay or trip has taken place.
Stay with family? Bring something
If you’re staying with family, offering to cover a meal or bringing the food for one day goes a long way. It’s often cheaper than a hotel, and it keeps everyone happy.
Think about a January trip instead
Some families are swapping a busy Christmas trip for a getaway in January or February when prices can drop and it gives everyone something to look forward to after the decorations come down. Booking that through TopCashback too means a little coming back.
Keep the kids entertained (cheaply)
Long journeys plus kids can equal chaos. Download films and audiobooks before you go, bring a travel game or two and have a “are we nearly there yet” countdown ready. Spotting games with a small treat at the end work wonders. And build in a proper stop to stretch everyone’s legs, yours included.
The bottom line
Getting everyone together at Christmas is what it’s all about. Book early, plan your stops, and earn a little cashback on bookings where you can.
Get started now: join TopCashback here. Where are you heading this Christmas? Tell us in the DadsNet community.
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