Four ways to save this half-term

There's no getting away from the fact that getting away with your family this half-term could cost more than you think. In fact, research has shown families wanting a holiday this February half-term face paying up to eight times more than normal for flights.

The average cost of flights on the weekend of February 13 is nearly 200% more than flights departing two weeks later, according to online bureau de change FairFX.

If holidays are your thing, this could make a huge dent in your savings.

Planning for your next holiday

Rather than spend more than you can afford this year, planning one in properly means you come home relaxed and refreshed, rather than worrying how to pay it off if you've put it all on credit card.

Research has shown those who treat saving as a regular expense, rather than those who try to save whatever they have at the end of the month, tend to reach their goals quicker.

See our four steps to saving money for your holiday

Four ways to keep your wallet happy this half-term

However, for hard-working families, if these rises are pricing you out of your dream holiday this month, it doesn't mean you can't have a good time together. Here are four cheap and fun ideas for half-term frolics.

1. Voucher discount codes

Sometimes, just having a nose about online can unearth some gems. Take a look at voucher sites and see whether there's anything in particular that takes your fancy. You could be surprised.

2. Nose about with the National Trust

The National Trust can be a great resource for your little ones.

Parenting blogger Skint Dad says – 'if you're looking for something a bit more structured then check out the National Trust's 50 things to do before you're 11 3/4; It gives you a free selection of activities to do outside. You can sign up on the site to get access to online rewards, certificates, games and secret challenges or, you can just download the list of activities for free.

What is great about this list is you don't have to pay to access UK landmarks; you can use their activity sheet for free and just enjoy being outdoors.'

Why don't you give it a go?

3. Check out where your children can eat for free

Eating out can be an expensive past-time, but it can also be a great treat if you find the right place that won't bust a hole in your pocket. A bit of online research has shown some restaurants offer free children's meals at certain times. Give it a Google and see whether anywhere local to you does the same.

4. Consider what activities you can do at home

Being at home doesn't have to mean an afternoon in front of the box. Arts and crafts can be an inexpensive idea, for example.

Skint Dad adds 'try making an indoor fort using cushions, pillows and blankets. Or how about having a disco in the evening where everyone has to dress up and you can take it in turn to be the DJ? You could also get out some trusted board games and spend the afternoon trying to sink each other's battle ship.'

This article is provided by the Money Advice Service.