With money tight at the moment and all the financial problems brought on by the credit crunch, this article aims to help you enjoy that tropical holiday, make savings, but still indulge yourself this year.

1. Book Early
By booking early you can take advantage of savings on both flights and hotel accommodation. The advantages of this is that you can be more specific about the location and hotel or resort you

2. Book Late
To get the cheapest accommodation you have two options, depending on how flexible your holiday dates are. If you book at the very last minute, you can take advantage of some fantastic bargains – but the downside is you don’t have as much choice regarding where you stay, and you must be ready to fly at the drop of a hat.

3. Ask for a discount
Travel agents earn money on commission, and many will be willing to drop their commission amount to secure a sale. It is worth asking, don’t be shy and stand your ground, it really works in many cases and you have nothing to lose by asking.

4. Airline bag costs
To encourage people to pack lighter to reduce fuel usage, certain airlines have varying luggage charges. By checking out these limits and charges, you can make savings by sharing bags or opting not to take hand luggage on board.

5. Sun cream, insect repellent and the like
Necessities like sun cream and insect repellent is something you cannot do without. However, the high price you pay in the UK is not likely to be mirrored abroad, and purchasing these locally when on holiday for your family could leave you quids in.

6. All inclusive
All inclusive deals might look expensive when booking, but there are loads of good deals in some surprisingly luxury hotels and you can make a big saving by ensuring your holiday is fully catered.

7. Money Abroad
Check your bank charges for use of ATMs abroad – at the time of writing, Nationwide Building Society do not charge for using ATMs abroad, and by doing this, not only is your money safer, you won’t be stung with any comission charges. Be careful not to draw out more than you need however, as comission does apply when changing foreign currency back to pound sterling.

8. gosimply Airport Services
gosimply.com is an airport services comparison website who compare prices on airport parking, car hire, airport lounges and hotels.
Get up-to-date prices and read reviews, good and bad, to find the best services at the airport you are flying from.

9. Travel Insurance
When booking the above services with Go Simply, you can shave 10% off the price of your single or multi-trip travel insurance.

10. Shop around
Finally, simply shop around and compare prices across all major travel agents to hunt out the best bargains. There are plenty of comparison websites such as the one mentioned above, and other resources such as the Motley Fool and Money Saving Expert who are on hand to offer you plenty of tips.

Good luck and bon voyage!