Taking a family holiday during half-term can often come with a hefty price tag, with research showing that parents typically spend an extra £645 on average during this school break. This additional cost is usually attributed to £230 on extra childcare and £246 on entertaining the kids. The October half term, in particular, tends to be a challenging period for families financially, especially following the expensive summer holidays.
For families planning a getaway during the half term break, the decision between staying in the UK or travelling abroad can be a tough one. While UK destinations may seem convenient, they often come with a higher price tag due to the increased demand during school holidays. Center Parcs is a popular choice among UK families, with 2.1 million visitors in the previous year. However, research by travel money experts at eurochange suggests that opting for a European Center Parcs during half term could actually be more cost-effective than staying in the UK.
Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at eurochange, highlighted that half-term can be an expensive time for families, making it challenging to choose a suitable holiday option. Despite common perceptions that UK Center Parcs resorts are cheaper, the research indicates that it can be more economical to take the family to a park abroad. According to eurochange’s research, a 4-night stay at Center Parcs, Park Nordseeküste in Germany, during the October half term for a family of 2 adults and 2 children (ages 4 and above) would cost €569 (£442.66). In comparison, a 4-night stay at Center Parcs’ Sherwood Forest resort over the same dates in the UK could cost upwards of £1,399 for a family of 4.
These findings suggest that a simple switch to a European Center Parcs could potentially save families up to £1,000 during the half term break. By considering alternative holiday destinations, families can make the most of their money and enjoy a memorable getaway without breaking the bank.