Your wallet’s already crying and you haven’t even checked into the hotel yet? Classic. Between the flights, the hotel, that new outfit you had to have, and the “just one drink” that turned into six at the airport Wetherspoons, you’re already halfway to broke before you even touch down.
But don’t worry. You don’t need to blow a fortune to have an unforgettable holiday. With a few clever moves (and a bit of cheek), you can party like royalty on a student loan.
Here’s how to smash your party holiday on a budget without looking like you’re counting pennies at the bar.
Book Smart (Before You Even Leave)
Your first mistake? Leaving it too late. Everyone’s guilty of it. But the earlier you book, the more money you’ll have left for cocktails when you arrive.
Start with your flights. Mid-week flights are usually cheaper than weekend ones, and budget airlines are your best mate here (just don’t expect legroom or free peanuts). Use comparison sites, play around with dates, and if you’re flexible, you can save a tonne.
Next, accommodation. You don’t need a five-star spa when you’re just looking for somewhere to sleep (or collapse). Hostels are brilliant if you’re sociable and skint. Many even organise bar crawls and cheap nights out. Otherwise, look for party-friendly hotels near the strip so you save money on taxis later.
And here’s a cheeky tip: many boat parties chuck in free club entries when you pre-book online. Basically two parties for the price of one, and who’s saying no to that?
Pre-Drink Like a Pro
If you’re buying all your drinks at the club, you’re doing it wrong. Clubs, especially in places like Ibiza or Mykonos, will happily charge you €15 for a vodka and coke. Not ideal when you’re trying to make your travel money last longer than your tan.
So: pre-drinks. Stock up at the nearest supermarket or corner shop when you arrive. Get a few bottles to share with your mates, some mixers, and you’re golden. Even better, if your hotel balcony has a decent view of the sunset, you’ve already got your own happy hour.
And if you’re feeling cheeky? Bring a hip flask to top yourself up in the club (just… don’t get caught).
Of course, pace yourself. Nobody likes the mate who goes too hard in the room and ends up snoring on the bathroom floor before they’ve even seen the inside of a bar.
Master the Happy Hours
Another classic money-saver: happy hours. Almost every resort bar and club has one.
Head out earlier and scope out where the locals are drinking. You can usually find two-for-one cocktails or €2 shots if you hit the right places at the right time. Not only does this save you cash, it also gives you a good excuse to actually enjoy the atmosphere before the dance floor turns into a mosh pit at midnight.
Group Power: Strength in Numbers
Travelling with your mates? Good, you’ve already got an advantage.
There’s power in numbers when it comes to saving cash. Clubs, boat parties and even taxis will often offer discounts if you’re booking as a group. Many of our boat parties actually have special group discounts, so it’s worth getting organised and booking ahead.
Eat Cheap, Eat Smart
Here’s a hard truth: that fancy sit-down dinner isn’t going to feel half as good as a €3 slice of pizza at 3am. Save your euros for drinks and club entry by eating smart.
Street food is your mate here. Gyros in Zante, souvlaki in Mykonos, churros in Barcelona, or a massive döner in Malia. Cheap. Filling. And hits the spot every time.
If you’re staying somewhere with a little kitchen, stock up at the supermarket and whip up your own breakfast and snacks. Even just having a few bags of crisps and a loaf of bread in your room means you won’t get stung for a sad €12 sandwich.
And don’t forget: eating before you go out is vital. Nothing ruins a night (and your wallet) faster than having to leave early because you passed out on the dance floor thanks to an empty stomach.
Don’t Get Stung
Holiday destinations are full of little money traps designed to rinse tourists dry. Don’t fall for them.
Promoters on the strip promising “VIP access” for ridiculous prices? Usually not worth it. Agreeing to a taxi without checking the price first? Rookie mistake. Paying €5 for a tiny bottle of water at the club because you didn’t bring one from the shop? Painful.
Be smart. Always check entry fees before you queue. Walk a street or two away from the strip to find cheaper drinks. And never, ever, leave your tab open at a bar unless you want a heart attack when you see the bill.
And here’s a cheeky tip: check if clubs or bars have free nights or themed events where you get discounted entry. Many places in Ayia Napa, Kavos and Tenerife have promo nights early in the week where you can party for peanuts compared to weekends.
Closing: Party Like You’re Loaded (Even If You’re Not)
See? You don’t need to spend like a Premier League footballer to have a legendary holiday.
Book smart. Drink smart. Eat smart. And keep your eyes peeled for deals. With a bit of effort (and a dash of cheek), you can still have those big nights out and hilarious memories without emptying your bank account before you even get home.And if you really want to stretch your money while making the most of your trip, book your boat party tickets in advance. They’re worth every penny, and you always get extras thrown in.