Four in 10 consider themselves a ‘travel hacker’, making use of key tips and tricks to maximise their holidays. The research was commissioned by Virgin Red, which teamed up with Race Across The World winner, Alfie Watts to share top travel tips.
According to the poll, booking flights to leave on weekdays, packaging hotels and transport together and using loyalty points for upgrades were some of the top tips Brits were already using. Other frequently used ‘hacks’ were utilising credit card loyalty schemes to build points, buying at certain times of day for better deals and using incognito mode for flight searches.
Once the holiday is on the books, travellers have a few more aces up their sleeves: rolling clothes to conserve suitcase space, packing snacks to sidestep airport price gouging, and bringing along a portable charger.
Alfie Watts, who traversed three continents in just 72 hours using Virgin Red reward points, shared: “Travel doesn’t have to break the bank, especially if you are using travel hacks and this trip proves it.”
He flew an impressive 9,000 miles, securing accommodation through points that can be racked up via routine activities such as shopping and commuting.
Moreover, these points can also be secured when booking holidays, a trick nearly half of the survey respondents regret not using on past trips.
“It’s not just about the flights – it’s the little hacks that make a big difference,” Alfie added.
“I normally pack light to avoid pricey hold luggage fees and I also use an eSIM to stay connected without needing to switch out my physical SIM.
“I learned from previous experience that sometimes a long-haul flight pays off when the cost of living at your destination is super low, which helps to balance out costs.”
He also shared that renting a car and seeking advice from locals gave him more freedom to venture beyond typical tourist attractions.
According to the research, travellers utilise an average of three hacks on a typical holiday, with two thirds getting tips from friends and family.
Interestingly, a quarter of respondents said certain hacks have influenced their decision on where to travel. These have included finding more affordable options, discovering lesser-known destinations and choosing somewhere with lesser visa requirements.
Vicki Simpson from Virgin Red commented: “The research has shown that travellers are always keen to utilise hacks where possible.
“Alfie’s trip shows how far loyalty points can get you. Reward points give travellers the chance to fast track their travels while slowing their spending.
“Whether it’s a short weekend away or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, these smarter ways to travel can undoubtedly make a difference.”