Last minute (and budget-friendly) school holiday deals you can still book
The school holidays are just around the corner, and if you haven’t planned anything yet, don’t worry.
Sometimes, a last-minute getaway can be even easier (and cheaper) to organise than an elaborate holiday packed with activities.
There's still time to book a school holiday trip. iStock
Here are some budget-conscious, last-minute getaway ideas to inspire you to hit the road these school holidays.
Consider a lesser-known destination
‘Destination dupes’ is a travel trend usually associated with overseas trips, but the same principle can apply Down Under.
Instead of fighting the crowds (and higher prices) at some of our more well-known tourist spots, zoom out a little further on the map to find something similar but much more under-the-radar.
Thinking of a Queensland getaway?
Instead of Noosa or the Gold Coast, head to Caloundra or the Capricorn Coast, where holiday parks and beachside apartments can be snagged for a lot cheaper.
It’s still got the warm weather and great beaches, but it’s less likely to be sold out ahead of time.
Instead of Byron Bay, try Yamba or South West Rocks in NSW; instead of Margaret River, explore Dunsborough or Albany in WA.
And when you’re there, stock up on supplies at the local supermarket (or even see if there are any produce markets on), to keep costs low.
The best deals we’ve seen
- Save up to $2300 on Queensland packages from Flight Centre.
- Trip.com has an EOFY Mega Sale where you can save big across flights and more.
- Jetstar has domestic flights from $45 for a limited time.
A holiday park has something for everyone. Supplied
Holiday parks are for everyone
Don’t write off holiday parks if you don’t own a tent or a caravan. Most also have self-contained family cabins that are often a lot cheaper than typical accommodation rentals.
Holiday parks are also a lot more schmick than you might be used to.
With things like waterslides, giant pools, swim-up bars, outdoor cinemas, on-site dining, and more, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained, without having to fork out for big activities.
While premium cabins in hotspots can book out early, inland parks typically will have vacancies even in school holidays.
Look for parks situated on calm waterways (eg Echuca in Vic, Keepit in NSW, or Lake Bonney in SA) where free activities like fishing, swimming, and paddleboarding are right on your doorstep.
The best deals we’ve seen
- Stay for just $20 per night on selected caravan/camping sites when you stay 5 nights or more at selected Discovery Parks.
- Access uncapped 15 per cent off mid-week savings, or score ‘Stay 4, Pay 3’ deals across BIG4 locations.
- Reflections Holidays have ‘Stay 5, pay 4’ or 20 per cent discounts on 3-night stays at certain parks.
You don't need to leave the city to soak up the holiday vibes. iStock
City staycation
During school holidays, plenty of city hotels spruik offers like “kids stay and eat free” or discounted mid-week nights, so why not play tourist in your closest capital city, or hop a cheap interstate budget flight.
Though the thought of staying in the city might sound expensive, there are plenty of free kid-friendly activities, especially during school holidays.
Build your itinerary around free city events, botanical gardens, and public museums – if you do your research ahead of time, you’ll be able to find enough activities so your kids will never have to say “I’m bored”.
When all else fails, try to book a hotel with an indoor pool, so you’ve got a fun way to burn off energy even if it’s rainy or cold.
The best deals we’ve seen
- Book a family package at one of six Pan Pacific Australian hotels, with free breakfasts, welcome amenities for little ones and late check-out until 2pm (subject to availability).
- Save up to 25 per cent off stays at the Pullman & Mercure Brisbane King George Square.
- IHG One Rewards members can get 30 per cent off certain hotel stays, while non-members can save up to 20 per cent at a selection of the firm’s hotels.
Give your kids an experience they can't get in the city. iStock
Look into a farm stay
Sick of your kids spending the holidays looking at screens? Farm stays can often be found at very modest price points – at least, a lot cheaper than a family pass to a theme park.
Many farm stays aren’t just accommodation; you can help with collecting fresh eggs for breakfast, feeding lambs, milking cows, and riding horses.
Not only does it offer kids a hands-on adventure that’s out of the norm, it’ll probably benefit the adults, too, to head off-grid and breathe in some fresh air.
Look in regions like Hunter Valley (NSW), Darling Downs (Qld), The Yarra Valley or Goldfields (Vic), or The South West (WA).
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