GET INSURED

If you’ve already bought cover from your tour operator or travel agent, you’ve probably paid over the odds. If not, go online for the best deal, saving up to 80% on high-street prices. If you take more than two trips a year, buy an annual policy. Prices vary enormously. Travelsupermarket.com, a price-comparison website that sources prices from more than 30 insurers, has quotes ranging from £45 to £246 on global cover for a family of four.

GET PARKED

You can slash up to 60% off the cost of airport parking by booking in advance. Check out Simplyparking.co.uk or Bluedogparking.co.uk.

If you’re away for a fortnight, it can be cheaper to book a night at an airport hotel and park there. According to Bluedog, the best price for two weeks in August at a Heathrow long-stay is £118, or £75 if you park “off airport”. But last week, a family room at a four-star airport hotel with up to 15 days’ parking was £59. The deal included return transfers to the terminal, which cost £8pp, children free.

BUY CURRENCY

Most banks and building societies, except Nationwide, now charge up to £5 in fees for using their plastic abroad, so you’re better off changing money before you go. Most holidaymakers change money at the airport, but you’ll usually get a better rate and avoid paying 1.5% commission by buying online. Travelex.co.uk is among the best because it allows you to pick up your currency at the airport.

AVOID CAR-HIRE RIP-OFFS

Although your rental deal is likely to include “free insurance”, the excess you’ll pay if the car is damaged or stolen will be anything from £300 to £3,000, and you have to pay a fortune to reduce it. To avoid being mugged in this way you can buy a Europe-wide annual policy from www.Insurance4carhire.com. It costs £51 and indemnifies you against all excess charges. Plus, it covers damage to tyres, windows and undercarriage — areas not covered by the rental companies’ policies.

CHECK IN ONLINE

Several airlines allow you to check in online up to 24 hours before departure. This means you can secure your seat and arrive at the airport 30-60 minutes before your flight, instead of two hours. Rather than queue at check-in, you drop off your bags at a dedicated desk. Last week, British Airways became the first airline to allow families to check in online. Previously, the ability to confirm flights, choose seats and print boarding passes from the comfort of home was available only to individuals.