A simple swap to a Center Parcs location in Europe could potentially save families up to £1,000 during the upcoming half-term break, according to travel experts. Research has indicated that parents typically spend an additional £645 during half-term, with a significant portion going towards extra childcare and entertainment for children. The October half-term can be particularly challenging financially for families, following the costly summer holiday period.
For families planning a break during this time, the decision between staying in the UK or travelling abroad can be perplexing. Despite the popularity of UK-based Center Parcs resorts, new findings by eurochange suggest that visiting a Center Parcs in Europe could offer more value for money. Laura Evans-Fisk, from eurochange, highlighted that the exchange rate could make a European trip more cost-effective, even when factoring in flight expenses.
For example, a 4-night stay during the October half term at Center Parcs Park Nordseeküste in Germany for a family of 2 adults and 2 children aged 4 and above would cost around £442.66 (€569). In comparison, a 4-night stay at Center Parcs’ Sherwood Forest resort during the same dates in the UK could exceed £1,399 for a family of 4. These findings challenge the assumption that UK-based Center Parcs locations are always cheaper, showing that families can potentially save significantly by opting for a European destination.
The research conducted by eurochange underscores the potential savings families could enjoy by considering alternative holiday options during peak seasons. As the October half term approaches, families are urged to explore cost-effective alternatives to make the most of their holiday budget without compromising on the quality of their break.