Blackpool ranked third on Visit England’s survey of trips to English towns between 2013 and 2015, with an average of 1.1 million trips to the seaside resort each year. However, like every tourist destination, Blackpool is not short of tourist traps. We’ve come up with a few tips to make sure you are getting the most for your money and the most out of your stay in Blackpool.
Avoid the busy seasons
If possible, try to avoid the busiest tourist seasons when planning your trip to Blackpool. The accommodation prices will e increased massively and so will food and attraction prices. It is also a good idea to book far in advance. This will ensure you have a range of accommodation to choose from but also that you get a good deal as hotels can increase their prices nearer the time.
Don’t be drawn in
When booking a trip away, it’s easy to get lured in by offers and deals, when in reality you are still paying more than you need to be. Tourists can also be drawn in by expensive hotels, so make sure you are fully aware of what they are actually offering you. The most expensive hotels don’t always offer you the most for your money.
Don’t stay in the centre
As tempting as it is to stay as close to attractions as possible for ease, this is not always the best option. Not only will it be noisier, but it will also undoubtedly be more expensive. If you are willing to travel a little way each day, you will save a lot of money. Staying out of the centre will allow you to see more of Lancashire than just the main tourist spots. Blackpool has a good bus system, and trams are as iconic to Blackpool as the tower. The trams are undoubtedly a tourist attraction, but they are also a form of transport so utilise them.
Consider a B&B
Your first thought might be to book a traditional hotel for your stay, but a Blackpool bed and breakfast can often be cheaper, and they are certainly more homely. Hotels can come with hidden costs, for laundry and cleaning. You will save money staying in a B&B and will receive a home cooked breakfast and be surrounded by other home comforts. You will also gain local knowledge from your host and be able to experience the real Blackpool. It’s a win-win situation!
Go self catered
You could also consider self-catered accommodation. Hotels are known for overcharging on food, however, if you opt out of the hotel food, your only other option will be eating out. Eating out can again be expensive, but if you stay in self-catered accommodation, you will have a kitchen to cook you own meals. This also means you will have more flexibility as you won’t be restricted to hotel meal times.
If you are looking to save money on your holiday then looking at accommodation is a good place to start. Make sure also to consider ways to save while you are actually on holiday too. Enjoy your trip!