Data from Travel Insurance Direct (TID) reveals a notable surge in customers choosing Europe as their destination between May-June, accounting for 22% of bookings – up from just 8% in January 2024.
In contrast, travel to Japan followed a different seasonal trend, attracting 22% of TID travellers in January before dropping to just 7% by June.
“Travelling as a family can create lasting memories, but it also brings its fair share of risks,” said Dylan Wilkinson, Head of APAC & nib Travel Marketing at TID.
“Europe is always a popular destination this time of year, but unexpected costs like medical emergencies, lost luggage and delays can really add up.”
Here are five savvy tips from TID to help save without skimping on fun.
Plan smart, travel smarter
# Off-peak is cheaper: travel just outside school holidays when flights and accommodation are cheaper. You’ll also avoid the crowds.
# Skip big cities: instead of spending all your time in expensive hotspots like Paris or Rome, explore charming towns or lesser-known regions like Portugal’s Algarve or Spain’s Costa Brava which offer great sights without the hefty price tag.
# Try less-visited spots: skip the major tourist traps and discover hidden gems. Not only will things be more affordable, but they’ll also be less crowded.
# Stopovers are your friend: flights to Europe can be long, so turn your stopover into an opportunity to explore a new city like Dubai, Singapore, or Doha, to help break up the long trip.
2. Eat local
# Self-cater when you can: book accommodation with a kitchenette and prepare some of your own meals. It’s cheaper and gives you more space to spread out.
# Picnic like a local: Europe is full of beautiful parks and outdoor spaces perfect for a picnic. Grab some fresh bread, cheese and charcuterie from local markets and make a meal of it.
# Lunch over dinner: dining out is often cheaper at lunchtime. In cities like Barcelona or Paris, opt for the “menu del día” (set lunch menu) to enjoy a hearty meal for less.
# Street food adventures: Europe is a haven for street food. Try local specialties like a crepe in France, pizza in Italy, or gyros in Greece – often delicious and much cheaper than sit-down meals.
3. Affordable stays
# Stay longer, save more: look for hotels or vacation rentals that offer discounts for longer stays. Booking for five or more nights can unlock better deals, which can be a lifesaver for families.
# House swapping: consider swapping homes with someone in Europe for an affordable and convenient option. Websites like Aussie House Swap can help connect you with families who want to exchange homes while you travel.
4. Explore for free
# Discover free attractions: many parks, hiking trails, and beaches don’t cost a thing. You can also check out free museums, especially in places like London and Paris.
# Local events: search for free local festivals, concerts, or markets to experience the local culture without a hefty price tag.
5. Consider travel insurance
# While saving on flights and accommodation is great, unexpected travel hiccups can occur. That’s where TID’s family travel insurance comes in. Whether it’s a lost suitcase, a medical emergency, or a cancelled flight, having adequate cover may save you from costly disruptions.
“Typically, most people tend to book their travel insurance four weeks out from their departure date. Booking earlier helps ensure you’re covered for life’s curveballs before your trip begins,” Mr Wilkinson said.
“May through to June is when we expect most people visiting Europe to take out an insurance policy, making now the perfect time to lock in travel plans and coverage.”
https://www.travelinsurancedirect.com.au/
