Holidays give us something to look forward to: fun, relaxation and exciting new experiences. But the truth is that many people shy away from taking holidays simply because they think they're too expensive; what's more, a holiday usually requires saving up for a significant amount of time beforehand. However, there's no reason that you can't have a fantastic holiday without breaking your bank. If the potential cost of a holiday has been prohibiting you from considering a trip in the first place, then we have some advice for you.

The first thing to keep in mind when planning a budget holiday is that there are countless fantastic deals available out there - you just need to find them. That said, it's often worth your time to shop around for hotel and flight deals. Alternatively, you can look into last minute deals; many comprehensive travel sites offer remarkable last minute deals at high quality hotels. Similarly, airlines often reduce their fares as the day of travel approaches in hopes of selling seats rather than leaving them empty. However, this option is usually ideal for those who are interested in taking a weekend break, as you'll often need to be prepared for travel within a few days of the booking.

Another vital part of planning a budget holiday is to consider the activities in which you can partake; keep in mind that you do not have to spend a great deal of money to have fun. Sightseeing, for instance, is one of the best ways to experience your holiday destination - and it's usually free. Get a map of the area you'll be visiting and plan out a walking tour, making sure you highlight all the key attractions; or rent a bike and ride around the city, town or village. It's also well worth doing a bit of research on your destination before you travel. If you're an art buff, for example, find out if there are any free museums, galleries or exhibits to visit. And depending on where you'll be travelling to, you might be able to find parks or natural preserves through which you can hike, bicycle or walk. These are just a few ways in which you can have a great holiday without breaking your bank.

While the aforementioned ideas are well worth considering when planning a budget holiday, none are as vital as flexibility. Keep your options open when it comes to how you travel, where you stay, and even when picking your destination. If you're open and flexible to the idea of travelling anywhere in Spain, for example, you're more likely to find a deal quicker than if your mind is set on travelling to Barcelona. On a budget holiday, you may not be able to splurge on lavish dinners, hotels, or shopping sprees - but that doesn't mean that you can't have a fantastic time. So start planning your budget holiday today: you'll be surprised at what a little bit of time, flexibility and, most importantly, spontaneity can provide you with.

About the author:
Andrew Regan recently went on holiday to Sydney Australia where the photos were taken.