How Not Going Abroad Could Pay for Your Holiday (Yes, Really!)

How Not Going Abroad Could Pay for Your Holiday (Yes, Really!)

Let’s be honest: the idea of jetting off somewhere sunny and showing off your airport Prosecco on Instagram sounds great… but have you actually added up the real cost of that “budget” break recently?

Spoiler: that flight deal? It’s just the bait. The rest of the trap comes later.

Here’s a (slightly sarcastic but painfully accurate) look at where your money really goes on a typical foreign holiday—and why swapping airport chaos for countryside calm at Woodfarm Barns or one of our Barges might be the most sensible move you make all year.

The Real Price of “Getting Away”

Before your toes even touch a beach, the spending spree begins:

• Flights – Those £19.99 deals rarely survive contact with reality. Once you’ve added bags, seat choices, and all the “optional” extras, you’re easily into the hundreds.

• Airport parking – Apparently, tarmac costs more than gold. You’re looking at £100 just to abandon your car for a week.

• Transfers abroad – Unless you fancy hauling your luggage onto a sweaty local bus, you’ll need taxis or private transfers. Let’s say another £70, minimum.

• Travel insurance – Because who doesn’t want to pay for the privilege of maybe not getting stranded?

• Passport renewals – £82.50 to be legally allowed to leave the country. Bargain.

• Currency exchange fees – Especially if you wait until the airport. And we all do.

• Roaming charges – One Instagram scroll later and your phone bill now includes a small yacht.

• Airport “meals” – £14 for a panini and a bottle of lukewarm water. And that’s just breakfast.

• Overweight luggage fees – Because two extra T-shirts somehow cost £60 in penalties.

• Tourist prices – €9 for a cappuccino in a plastic cup? We’ve all been there.

• Kennels – If you’re leaving the dog behind, add a few hundred quid for their “holiday” too.

• Time off to recover – Midnight landings and 6am alarms do not a relaxing return make.

• Jet lag – Not technically a cost, but it does ruin half your trip.

• Random purchases – Forgot your charger/adaptor/swimwear? There goes another £30.

It all stacks up fast. Even on the low end, you’re north of £1,000 for a couple; and that’s before you’ve even booked a hotel. Or driven to the airport.

Meanwhile, Back in Beautiful Suffolk…

Book a stay at Woodfarm Barns or one of our gorgeous Dutch Barges and here’s what you won’t be dealing with:

• Airport queues

• Baggage drama

• Dodgy plug sockets

• Foreign exchange

• Jet lag

• That sinking “did I leave the iron on?” feeling 35,000 feet up

Instead, you get:

• Rolling countryside or tranquil river views

• Cosy accommodation full of character (and actual working Wi-Fi)

• Free parking (because obviously)

• Dog-friendly stays (so nobody gets left behind, and no extra cost)

• Proper pubs, fresh local food, and decent coffee that doesn’t cost €9

The Punchline? You Might Actually Save Money

When you tally it up, it’s not a stretch to say that a holiday abroad could cost more than a relaxing, memory-packed break in Suffolk.

Why not take that money and do something that doesn’t involve passport queues or jet engines? Stay local, relax more, spend less; and if you’ve got change left over, there’s always time for a second staycation later in the year.

No passport required.

Some other Key Pages you might find helpful

Last minute deals
From time to time, we have last-minute availability, and when we do, we like to make it even more tempting with a discount. If you’re in the mood for a spontaneous break, check out our page and see if there’s something waiting for you!

Location & Surroundings
Our latest poll showed that Location and surroundings were the key factor in holiday making choices, so why not see how we have this sewn up for you on our Location page? Nestled in the heart of rural Suffolk, Woodfarm Barns & Barges offers the perfect blend of countryside charm and waterside tranquillity.

Dog-friendly credentials
Discover retreats where luxury meets the wagging tail, offering you and your dogs plush accommodation, artisan treats, and endless country or riverside adventures. Dog-friendly accommodation at Woodfarm: ensuring your relaxation is as indulgent as their play.

FAQ’s: Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re someone who carefully considers every detail, then our FAQ Page is the right place! It’s where we provide extensive content for those who like to dive deep into the details before making a decision. If you can’t find your answer, then just get in touch here:

Contact Us
Whether you’re curious about availability, our accommodation, or planning your perfect Suffolk getaway, don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’m here to make your experience seamless and enjoyable, so just visit our Contact Us page and say hi.