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Gemma Bird has shared all her tips for families to save this summerCredit: NEWSUK 7<\/p>\n Gemma launched her Instagram page in 2019Credit: Gemma Bird – Instagram<\/p>\n Thanks to her savvy scrimping, she\u2019s now able to enjoy holidays to destinations like Mexico, Lapland, and Dubai.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n In 2019, Gemma launched her Instagram page, @Moneymumofficial<\/a>, to share her tips on saving and making money, which quickly gained traction.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Now 43, Gemma has amassed an impressive following of 474k on Instagram, where her followers regularly tune in for her expert advice.\u00a0<\/p>\n Reflecting on her journey, she says: \u201cI was just a working-class girl who loved a bargain. I\u2019m able to afford everything I have today because of the way I saved and my obsession with deals. It doesn\u2019t matter how much money you have, everyone loves a bargain.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n I was just a working-class girl who loved a bargain<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n In 2020, Gemma introduced her popular \u201cGemma\u2019s No Spend Days\u201d on social media, which became a huge hit.\u00a0<\/p>\n Building on this success, she landed a book deal, and her Sunday Times bestseller, Money Mum Official: Save Yourself Happy, was published in January 2022.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Now living near Billericay, Essex with her husband Adam and their two children, Brody and Bronte, Gemma shares her top tips for having a fun summer – without having to break the bank<\/a>.<\/p>\n No spend days\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n Rev up your savings with no-spend days<\/a>.\u00a0Pausing your spending just one day a week can truly make a significant impact on your finances.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n I\u2019ve made no-spend days<\/a> a habit for years – during my toughest saving periods, I\u2019d go three or four days a week without spending a penny.\u00a0\u00a0Not only does it save money, but it also highlights how much we often waste on non-essentials.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Summer holidays with the kids don\u2019t have to break the bank either. Instead of splurging on pricey outings, why not host playdates at home? You can keep the little ones entertained with fun DIY activities<\/a> like setting up a game of bowls in the garden or creating simple homemade crafts.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n There are plenty of free attractions that make for a fantastic day out<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n It\u2019s all about making small swaps: meeting friends at the park instead of a caf\u00e9, painting your own nails, or whipping up a creative meal with what you\u2019ve got in the freezer. These little changes can go a long way \u2013 and trust me, it\u2019s worth it.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n There are also plenty of free attractions that make for a fantastic day out, like the Science Museum or the Natural History Museum in London.\u00a0<\/p>\n Pack your own food to avoid unnecessary expenses, and plan your visits around free parking times to save even more.\u00a0<\/p>\n With a little planning, you can enjoy quality family time without spending a fortune.<\/p>\n Checking in for your dream holiday<\/strong><\/p>\n Dreaming of a getaway without the hefty price tag? There are plenty of creative ways to enjoy a break while keeping your spending in check.<\/p>\n 7<\/p>\n Gemma recommends searching ‘holiday dupes’ for bargain getawaysCredit: Instagram<\/p>\n Why not skip the trending hotspots like Dubai or Santorini and opt for hidden gems that offer similar vibes at a fraction of the cost? Simply search for \u201choliday dupes\u201d online to find destinations that deliver the experience you want without the premium price tag.<\/p>\n Always book hotels with free cancellation as well.\u00a0<\/p>\n Monitor price drops and rebook if the price decreases – this simple trick can save you hundreds. I often book months in advance and keep checking for deals right up to the day before check-in. Most people don\u2019t bother, but trust me, it\u2019s worth it.<\/p>\n Make the most of air miles and credit card points as well.<\/p>\n Pay for expenses using a credit card that earns air miles, but be sure to pay it off in full each month.\u00a0<\/p>\n Companion flights<\/a> and air miles have saved us a fortune \u2013 we\u2019ve flown to America for under \u00a31,000 return for a family of four.<\/p>\n Using points, we even managed to fly first class one way and economy back for just \u00a31,800 \u2013 a deal that would normally cost \u00a324,000.<\/p>\n Look out for last-minute deals and make use of vouchers like Tesco Clubcard or The Sun Superdays.\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n These can help you bag bargain breaks without cutting corners.<\/p>\n Top Hacks for Holidaying with Kids<\/p>\n IF you’ve got plans to go on holiday with your little ones this summer, here’s some advice to take on board. <\/p>\n Plan Ahead:<\/strong><\/p>\n Pack Smart:<\/strong><\/p>\n Travel Comfort:<\/strong><\/p>\n Stay Organized:<\/strong><\/p>\n Engage and Entertain:<\/strong><\/p>\n Maintain Routine:<\/strong><\/p>\n Stay Flexible:<\/strong><\/p>\n These hacks can help make your holiday with kids smoother, more enjoyable, and will ensure that you return home with wonderful memories!<\/p>\n And don\u2019t be afraid or ashamed to email a hotel for a cheeky upgrade.\u00a0<\/p>\n A polite email ahead of your stay mentioning special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries could land you free perks or room upgrades. You might be surprised by how accommodating hotels can be.<\/p>\n Get savvy with price comparisons<\/strong><\/p>\n When booking hotels or Airbnbs, I always screenshot the property and use Google Photos to search for it on other websites.\u00a0<\/p>\n More often than not, I find the same property listed for less \u2013 this simple trick has saved me hundreds of pounds.<\/p>\n When it comes to flights, tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner are invaluable for comparing prices.\u00a0<\/p>\n Don\u2019t be afraid to experiment with dates, times, and even nearby airports to uncover the best deals. Small adjustments can make a big difference.<\/p>\n Heading away for next to nothing<\/strong><\/p>\n Looking for ways to save big on your holidays?<\/a> Staying with friends or doing house swaps can be a brilliant option.<\/p>\n 7<\/p>\n Gemma recommends renting out a spare room for a few weeks to help pay the billsCredit: The Sun<\/p>\n On one trip, we stayed with friends in Scotland \u2013 we split the food bill, enjoyed home-cooked meals, and had an amazing time for next to nothing. If you\u2019re comfortable with it, renting out your home on Airbnb<\/a> while you\u2019re away could be a game-changer, covering the cost of your holiday entirely.<\/p>\n If it works for you, letting your home can bring in serious money.\u00a0<\/p>\n I know people who let their homes while they\u2019re on holiday, effectively paying for their trips, and even someone who lets her flat one week a month while staying with her mum.\u00a0<\/p>\n Whether you live in a tourist hotspot or a quieter area, there\u2019s often demand for short-term stays \u2013 from business travellers to those visiting family.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re thinking about it, take some time to prepare.\u00a0<\/p>\n Great photos make all the difference, so show off clean kitchens, freshly made beds, cosy living spaces, and any views you might have.\u00a0<\/p>\n A little effort before uploading pictures can really boost bookings.\u00a0<\/p>\n Alternatively if you have a spare room in your house, you could rent it out<\/a> to a trainee teacher. We rented out a room to a trainees teacher from France on work experience at the local secondary school, and enjoyed having them stay.\u00a0<\/p>\n You could also open your home to touring performers or language students visiting your area for short periods \u2013 they\u2019re often out and about most of the time anyway.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n To get started, contact local theatres, schools, or language schools to see how to join their accommodation lists.\u00a0<\/p>\n Alternatively, you can use a trusted platform like\u00a0spareroom.co.uk<\/a>\u00a0to guide you through the process safely and securely.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n This could really bring in the extra cash.\u00a0<\/p>\n Camping out\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n For nature lovers, free camping is another brilliant budget-friendly idea.\u00a0<\/p>\n A quick search for free campsites near you can uncover hidden gems where you can enjoy the great outdoors without spending a penny.<\/p>\n 7<\/p>\n Opt for independent camping and caravan sites to save on your next staycationCredit: Getty<\/p>\n If you\u2019re looking for affordable caravan holidays? Independent caravan sites can often provide great value compared to big-name chains.\u00a0<\/p>\n While they may not have all the extras, they\u2019re perfect for a budget-friendly break.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n I remember visiting one in Canby when I was younger, and while it wasn\u2019t anything fancy, it was clean, tidy, and served its purpose.\u00a0<\/p>\n We had a brilliant time despite the simplicity! Sometimes the smaller, independent sites offer a more personal and cosy experience, so they\u2019re definitely worth checking out.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n If you\u2019re considering a caravan holiday, don\u2019t overlook these lesser-known spots \u2013 they might just be the perfect option for a fun and affordable getaway.<\/p>\n Eating out for free<\/strong><\/p>\n Eating out during the school holidays doesn\u2019t have to cost a fortune \u2013 there are plenty of ways to save if you plan ahead.<\/p>\n I always avoid overpriced food at attractions by either packing snacks from home or grabbing a supermarket meal deal on the way.\u00a0<\/p>\n Even if I forget, I\u2019ll stop at a shop before heading into a venue \u2013 it\u2019s so much cheaper than paying their inflated prices.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n I took my daughter to the theatre recently, and she wanted some sweets.\u00a0The price for a small bag of fruit pastilles was \u00a35! Whether I can afford it or not, I just couldn\u2019t justify it \u2013 it felt like daylight robbery.\u00a0<\/p>\n I told her she\u2019d have to wait until we left, and honestly, it\u2019s these little choices that help keep costs down.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n There are also great perks to take advantage of. For example, Octopus Energy customers can use the OctiPlus app to claim a free coffee each week from Caff\u00e8 Nero or Greggs.<\/p>\n If you\u2019ve never downloaded the Greggs app before, you\u2019ll get a free drink just for signing up \u2013 I\u2019ve definitely made the most of that.<\/p>\n When it comes to dining out, lots of places offer deals where kids eat free. Some great options include Gordon Ramsay Restaurants, Comptoir Libanais, Bill\u2019s, Yo! Sushi, Morrisons, Tesco, Bella Italia, ASDA, and Ikea.\u00a0<\/p>\n It\u2019s always worth checking what\u2019s available before heading out.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Swimming on a budget<\/strong><\/p>\n Keeping the kids entertained during term time doesn\u2019t have to cost a fortune \u2013 with a bit of planning and creativity, there are plenty of affordable activities to enjoy.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n 7<\/p>\n Why not see if a local homeowner with a pool is renting it out for a day?Credit: Getty<\/p>\n Local swimming pools are often very affordable, so start by checking out smaller pools near you.\u00a0<\/p>\n For something a little different, some private homes rent out their pools by the hour. We\u2019ve got one near us, and it\u2019s around \u00a330\u2013\u00a340 for an hour, which you can split with other families. It works out really cheap and gives you the pool all to yourselves.\u00a0<\/p>\n We did this last year, and it was brilliant \u2013 the kids loved it, and it\u2019s perfect if you\u2019re not a fan of crowded pools.\u00a0<\/p>\n Splash parks are another fantastic option \u2013 often free or inexpensive, they\u2019re great for outdoor water fun without the cost of entry fees.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Cinema and bowling deals<\/strong><\/p>\n Take advantage of early morning cinema screenings like Mini Mornings, offered by Cineworld, Vue, and other cinema chains. These sessions are heavily discounted and perfect for a family outing without spending loads.\u00a0<\/p>\n They may be called different things depending on the cinema, but they\u2019re all great value.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Bowling can be another fun and affordable activity if you plan ahead.\u00a0Always check online for vouchers or discounts before booking \u2013 many venues offer deals that can make a big difference to the cost of a family trip.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n But before heading out anywhere, always do a quick search online for vouchers or discounts.\u00a0<\/p>\n Kids pass and discounts<\/strong><\/p>\n When it comes to keeping costs down on days out and activities, I\u2019m always on the lookout for ways to save.\u00a0<\/p>\n Kids Pass is a fantastic option \u2013 it\u2019s great for discounts on theme parks, cinemas, and other activities.\u00a0<\/p>\n Kellogg\u2019s also regularly runs promotions for free or discounted days out, and I\u2019ve used their vouchers loads of times in the past.\u00a0<\/p>\n Tesco Clubcard points are another lifesaver \u2013 they can get you brilliant deals for places like Legoland, Alton Towers, and other big attractions.<\/p>\n I never go to theme parks without a deal; whether it\u2019s two-for-one offers or discounts where kids go free, there are always vouchers if you keep an eye out.\u00a0<\/p>\n I\u2019ve found that Tesco Clubcard points, in particular, are brilliant for these kinds of trips.\u00a0<\/p>\n That said, memberships can be a good idea too, but only if you\u2019ll use them enough to make them worthwhile.\u00a0For instance, if it costs \u00a350 per visit and you know you\u2019ll go three times a year, then a membership might save you money.<\/p>\n But if you\u2019re not going to use it regularly, it\u2019s just not worth it.\u00a0You\u2019ve got to weigh up how far you live, how often you\u2019ll go, and whether perks like discounts on food and drink will actually benefit you.\u00a0I personally always bring my own food and drink, so those extras don\u2019t save me much.<\/p>\n Check with your energy provider<\/strong><\/p>\n Another great tip is to check if your energy provider offers perks.\u00a0<\/p>\n For example, Octopus Energy has deals on activities, and even free passes for things like cinema tickets.\u00a0There are also deals like Meerkat Movies, which can save you a lot.<\/p>\n For quieter days at home, free trial subscriptions can be a lifesaver. Services like Prime Movies often offer free trials, and you can use them during the holidays for movie nights with the kids.<\/p>\n Just make sure you set a reminder to cancel before the trial ends to avoid being charged.<\/p>\n Having a party cupboard<\/strong><\/p>\n When it comes to buying toys for my kids or gifts for others, I\u2019ve always been smart about finding bargains.\u00a0<\/p>\n I\u2019ve never been shy about buying second-hand toys \u2013 charity shops, boot sales, and school fairs are absolute goldmines.\u00a0<\/p>\n My daughter Bronte genuinely thinks the toy shop is the charity shop or Poundland, and she couldn\u2019t care less.<\/p>\n Kids don\u2019t mind about fancy packaging or where things come from \u2013 they just love the excitement of having something \u2018new\u2019 to play with.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n I also do toy rotation at home.\u00a0<\/p>\n 7<\/p>\n Have your kids’ toys on a rotation, it will stop them getting bored playing with the same onesCredit: Getty<\/p>\n I\u2019ll keep some toys hidden away and swap them out every few days.\u00a0<\/p>\n It keeps things fresh, and they feel like they\u2019re getting something new without spending a penny.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Whenever I see toys on offer \u2013 whether it\u2019s in shops like B&M <\/a>or online on Amazon – I\u2019ll grab them and put them away for later, especially for birthdays or Christmas.\u00a0<\/p>\n Amazon is brilliant for deals on kids\u2019 toys, and I\u2019m always checking for price drops.\u00a0<\/p>\n Just the other day, I found a toy reduced from \u00a340 to \u00a37.99.<\/p>\n I shared it with friends, and loads of people started buying it to put away for Christmas. It\u2019s such a good feeling to be prepared and save money at the same time.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n I also stick to a budget of around \u00a310 per present.\u00a0<\/p>\n If I can grab a deal like two toys for \u00a310 that would normally cost \u00a317 each, then the child is still getting a really nice gift, but I\u2019m not overspending.\u00a0<\/p>\n For older kids, I\u2019ll often just put money in a card \u2013 it\u2019s practical and lets them save for something they really want.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Being savvy with toys and gifts has saved me so much over the years, and it\u2019s a great way to always have something ready without breaking the bank.\u00a0<\/p>\n Saving and making money<\/strong><\/p>\n There are so many clever ways to save money<\/a> when it comes to driving and parking. For starters, to maximise your car\u2019s mileage, try only half-filling your fuel tank each time.\u00a0<\/p>\n A full tank adds extra weight, which causes your car to burn more fuel.\u00a0<\/p>\n Renting out your parking space could earn you around \u00a350 a month<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n You can also save by removing roof racks when they\u2019re not in use and clearing out your boot to avoid driving around with unnecessary weight.\u00a0<\/p>\n These small changes can make a big difference to your fuel efficiency over time.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n If you\u2019ve got a parking space or driveway you\u2019re not using, you could easily turn it into a little extra cash.\u00a0<\/p>\n In areas where parking is expensive and hard to find, commuters or train travellers are often on the lookout for more affordable options.\u00a0<\/p>\n Renting out your space could earn you around \u00a350 a month, and apps like JustPark make it really simple to get started.\u00a0<\/p>\n Plus, having an extra car parked on your drive can even act as a burglar deterrent.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n On the flip side, if you regularly drive to work or a specific destination, it\u2019s worth exploring whether you can rent a parking space instead of paying extortionate daily fees.\u00a0<\/p>\n Money saving challenges<\/p>\n Here’s some of our favourite money saving challenges to h <\/p>\n Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular schemes: <\/p>\n![\"Family](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/im-thrifty-mum-best-tips-760550660.jpg\")
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