Families need £449 million to cover cost of half term

Published:

26/10/2009

Topic:

Press Release,Shopping

The UK's parents will have to find an extra £449 million - £92 per family, to keep the kids entertained this half term.

• Recession-wise parents making money work harder to keep kids entertained

Figures from Moneysupermarket Vouchers reveal that half term spend is actually down 50 per cent from last year as the tough economic climate continues to bite.  In 2008, the average family spent twice as much (£185) on activities for the kids during the October break. 

To ease the pressure on family finances, parents are giving up meals out (27 per cent) and new clothes (25 per cent) so that their children can have a fun-filled week.  Almost a quarter of parents (23 per cent) will be cutting back on the family grocery shop. 

Despite these cut backs, the research showed that parents are spending smarter. Nearly two thirds (61 per cent) say they'll be using discount vouchers so they can enjoy more activities over the half term.

Sian Harrison, moneysupermarket.com's voucher expert says: "Despite the tightened purse strings, parents are not letting kids go without this half term.   By using vouchers, parents can save up to 50 per cent on restaurants and popular attractions like Alton Towers and Chessington and still have a fun day out with all the family."

Some of the great half term deals on www.moneysupermarket.com/vouchers/ include:

• Alton Towers Scarefest: 2 for 1 entry into the Alton Towers Resort, 25 per cent off entry into 'The Field of 1000 Screams' or 'The Boiler House' Maze, plus 20 per cent off in shops and restaurants, offer ends 1November 2009. 
• Chessington World of Adventures: 2-4-1 entry and 20 per cent off in shops and restaurants, offer ends 2 November 2009. 
• Ask: Enjoy any main meal for just £1 when you buy any other main meal. Offer is valid Sunday to Thursday, till 9 November. 
• Bella Italia: Every Monday until 26th November, Bella Italia will give you 50 per cent off your food bill.

-ENDS-

Download This Press Release

Related Links

Related Resouces