From budget chain hotels to park-and-fly deals and BA’s twilight bag drop, travel experts reveal holiday tricks to cut costs and stress

In theory, a vacation should relieve stress.

To make sure yours does just that, we asked travel experts Nicky Kelvin, head of The Points Guy UK (TPG UK) and Rhys Jones of frequent flyer website headforpoints.com for some useful holiday hacks to help you with your next run to help you go on vacation more relaxed – and for less money.

Scroll down for tips and tricks, including how to save money on flights, hotels and airport parking, the benefits of British Airways’ twilight pocket drop and more…

What is the best time or day to book a flight?

Kelvin said: “In general, low-cost airlines sell their cheapest seats first. So getting in early means you’re guaranteed the best deals. Other airlines’ fares can vary greatly throughout the year, and it’s always good to set up notifications with tools like Google flights track price changes.

Unfortunately, when it comes to booking your flight, there is no “best” day of the week to book. However, if you are flexible with the destination and the days you want to travel, rather than the days you book your holiday, this is a great way to find the best deals.”

Is it cheaper to fly to/from a regional airport?

Cheaper Business Class fares are available from airports such as Amsterdam (above), Oslo or Copenhagen – taking into account travel costs

Kelvin said: “If you know where you want to travel, you may want to look at different departure airports, especially if you’re starting your journey in mainland Europe from places like Amsterdam, Oslo or Copenhagen where, for example, long-haul business class flights can be incredibly cheaper, even considering the cost of traveling to that airport to board your flight.”

Train vs Plane for UK Travel

Kelvin said: “We’ve tried and tested our share of routes for UK travel, traveling simultaneously by plane and train to various locations, including London to Leeds and London to Scotland. In general, flying is usually faster, with an average cross-country flight that usually takes around 40 minutes to an hour, compared to up to three hours by train, depending on the route.

“However, with delays, strikes and cancellations currently occurring in both the airline and rail industries, it can sometimes be difficult for passengers to predict which mode of transport will generally be faster. If you’re looking for the more economical travel option, the train is a better choice as you probably won’t have to factor in additional costs like an airport transfer or taxi.

Hotel chains that have a good/good price?

The Marriott Bonvoy hotel chain is an excellent choice for earning points and miles, Kelvin said

Kelvin said: “For the UK points and miles earner, Marriott Bonvoy is a great choice as it offers a credit card with numerous benefits, including earning six Marriott Bonvoy points per pound spent at Marriott properties and other benefits Plus, the wide variety of brands that make up the Marriott portfolio and global coverage make this a great program to earn points in. Brands range from budget brands like Moxy to exciting luxury brands like St. Regis, Ritz-Carlton and W.

Are there rewards programs you can sign up for quickly that make a difference?

Kelvin said: “From families to frequent flyers, there are many rewards programs available for a variety of travelers to take advantage of. Earlier this year, Air France-KLM Flying Blue launched its new “Flying Blue familyProgram that allows members to pool their airline miles with family members, plus 25 percent off child award tickets and no mileage expiration for members under 18 Avios for every £1 you spend in Pret, you get three virgin points per £1 spent on buying train tickets.

Are there European countries currently offering better deals?

Kelvin said: “By using points and miles to countries that are usually cheaper, you get better deals, especially for hotels. For example, you’ll find points rates on the major hotel programs much lower in cities like Budapestor Bucharest. Destinations like this also offer the opportunity to earn double points with British Airways Holidays by booking a five-night holiday that includes flights.

Parking at the airport

Some hotels — including Hilton — offer “park-and-fly” rates, Jones says

Kelvin said: “Travellers can save money by searching Google for parking vouchers and airport discounts, or by using savings sites like Groupon.

Jones added: “Check prices at some hotels.”park and flyRates like Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn and Thistle. It is possible to book a room the night before departure or on return for slightly more than standard airport parking fees. This is especially useful for early morning departures and late arrivals in a hurry. Come to the airport and enjoy a Christmas drink on the way home when you don’t have to drive on arrival!’

airport buses

Jones said: “When using Heathrow Airport hotels it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with both Heathrow Oops Timetable (the bus service that connects all terminals with local hotels) and prices (approx. Family tickets are available and you save by booking your ticket through the online app. Hoppa bus timetables are notoriously complicated to understand as there are many people caught as not all terminals/hotels are served by Hoppa, so book wisely. For more information and to download the app, visit www.hotelhoppa.co.uk.’

British Airways checks in at dusk

British Airways offers a Baggage Drop service that allows you to check in your luggage the day before

Jones said: “If you have an early morning flight and are staying near Heathrow the night before, British Airways offer an overnight bag drop service, which allows you to check in your bags the day before, giving you valuable extra sleep and a less to worry about on your travel day.

Change flights and routes with British Airways

Jones said: “British Airways has announced that as a result of UK Border Force union action it will continue to offer customers whose inbound flights to Heathrow/Gatwick the flexibility to make voluntary changes through their customer service centers or travel agent. All BA connecting flights can also be changed free of charge rebooked, subject to availability, please contact your booking agent or visit ba.com for more information.

“If you have booked an Economy Plus ticket (with baggage) with BA, you have the option to change your flight on the same day to the same destination, subject to seat availability. If you have a later flight, consider an early flight to avoid the possibility of a last-minute cancellation.

“When the weather is bad and changes are likely, it’s worth knowing your rebooking options – an airline is often open to a passenger’s request if they offer a preferred solution and can prevent you from being automatically rebooked on something which is not the case, also works .’

Finally – be careful with these gifts during festive trips

Jones said: “Traveling with presents? Pack any precious, valuable or delicate gifts in your hand luggage so you can always keep an eye on them. Baggage delays, although uncommon, do happen – so avoid disappointed family or friends this Christmas!”