Self-catering holidays in Spain are still very popular. Sure, lots of people are beginning to snap up all inclusive deals in places like Thailand, but many families still travel to Spain and rent a holiday villa. When you start taking a look at self-catering villas in Spain, you may find they do not come cheap. For a lot of families, a self-catering villa in Spain can represent a major investment, but there are ways in which you can save money.
Car Rental in Spain
There is no way of getting around it, you will need a car for your holiday villa in Spain. You should never go for the first deal you come across online, and you should not go back to the same company you used last year without checking their prices first. Lots of visitors to Spain, presume the company they used last year may give them a better deal. This may not be true, so it is worth shopping around.
Should you use comparison some car rental web sites? It is actually better to stay away from them if you can. You will find the vast majority of car rental web sites, have an affiliation with a particular car rental company. It may even cost you more to book your car hire on a car rental comparison web site. Checking out individual companies is a much better idea. Keep all of the results in a spread sheet so you can quickly find the best deal. Also, make sure the terms and conditions are right for you. Some companies really do try it on when it comes to charging for a second named driver or try to charge you for insurance upgrades.
Eating Out in Spain
When we are on holiday in Spain, we may just enjoy eating out. Most of the time eating out in Spain is cheaper than in the UK, but you still need to watch your pennies. It can work out expensive for a family of four to eat out in Spain. After you have arrived at your destination, you may want to check out the local restaurants to see if they have any special offers. It will also be cheaper to eat mid day and enjoy a menu del dia, but many of us cannot tear ourselves away from the pool.
One way to save money on eating out is to check out the local press. Weekly papers such as the Round Town News and the Euroweekly may have money off coupons, and advertise special deals. Both options can save you a lot of money.
Downloading local apps such as McDonalds and Burger King is another good idea. If you just want to have a quick meal, food apps in Spain can save you money as well. Some of the freebie tourist guides may also have special offers available.
Saving Money on Supermarket Shopping in Spain
Lots of visitors to Spain tend to use the top supermarkets in Spain such as Mercadona and Carrefour. Lidl and Aldi are actually more expensive than their UK equivalents, and it could be better to take a look at other supermarkets. Mas Y Mas and Dia are two Spanish orientated super markets which can save both save you money. You may even want to sign up for their loyalty cards when you are in Spain. Both supermarkets issue discount coupons and they can be used against purchases. Take a look at their special offer publications and you will soon spot the best offers.
Things You Should Bring From the UK On Your Villa Holiday to Spain
Some drugs are more expensive in Spain, and if you think that you may need paracetamol or ibuprofen, it is a good idea to make sure you bring them. There are also some other things that are expensive in Spain. If you enjoy your morning cup of tea, it is cheaper to bring your favorite tea from the UK.
Another essential which is more expensive in Spain is washing powder. Bring quality washing powder such as Ariel or Bold Two in One from the UK, and you will save a lot of money. Ariel capsules and Bold work well in Spanish water. A lot of the water around the coasts of Spain, now come from desalinated water. Super markets generic washing powders may not work so well, and as you are likely to wash clothes which could be sticky from sun tan lotion, it is a good idea to opt for quality. Lenor unstoppables is an excellent scent booster for Spanish desalinated water and is easy to pack. Ladies should also remember to bring female hygiene as buying brands in Spain can cost a lot of money.
Yes, you can save money when you enjoy a self-catering villa in Spain. It may not feel that important to you at the time, but it could be a better idea than letting the credit card take the strain.