A recent study has revealed that holidaymakers across the country are missing out on significant travel savings. 86.2 million UK residents travelled abroad in 2023, providing a staggering potential for money-saving.[1] According to the new research, travellers could collectively save £3.66 billion per year by using free and easily accessible voucher codes.[2]

The data, sourced from discount deals website MyVoucherCodes, reveals that consumers saved an average of £42.49 per travel transaction. The average travel spend on the site was £690, returning a 6% discount on average. With this offer, a family of four spending £2760.20 could save nearly £170 by using voucher codes.

Despite the potential to enhance a holiday with a cash boost, most travellers overlook these savings. The study shows that travellers who used voucher codes over the past 12 months saved a combined total of just over £96,000 –  less than 1% of the total potential savings for the year, indicating a significant missed opportunity for the majority of holidaymakers.

Sarah-Jane Outten, savings expert for MyVoucherCodes, said: “The secret to success with voucher codes is to use them consistently. While the average saving per booking may not seem like much at first glance, it quickly adds up when applied over multiple trips or family holidays. That extra cash could be spent on a fun excursion, extra meals out, or even an accommodation upgrade.

“As well as checking for discount codes, there are plenty more ways to save money on travel. For instance, comparing the cost of flights and accommodation using online price tracking tools such as Google Flights and Booking.com. Set these tools to alert you when prices drop, so that you can book at the best time.

“Having the flexibility to fly from a different airport can sometimes mean securing cheaper fares, and don’t forget to sign up for flash deals and exclusive offers. If you can, travelling during off-peak months often makes a huge difference to the cost of your holiday. Avoiding peak travel times can mean lower prices for flights, accommodation, and attractions – plus, a more relaxed getaway with fewer crowds is a bonus!