Latest news with #VirginRed
The Irish Sun
3 days ago
- The Irish Sun
Ultimate travel hacks from credit card benefits to weekday travel, survey shows
A SURVEY has revealed the common hacks Brits love to make the most out of their holidays. Four in 10 consider themselves a 'travel hacker' – using tips and tricks to maximise their holidays. 4 Booking flights that leave on weekdays, and using incognito mode can help you save money Credit: SWNS 4 Using loyalty points can also be a great way to reduce the cost Credit: SWNS Booking flights to leave on weekdays, packaging hotels and journeys together and using loyalty points for upgrades were some of the top tips according to the 2,000 holidayers polled. While utilising credit card travel benefits, buying at certain times of day for better deals and using incognito mode for flight searches were other hacks frequently used when planning ahead. And when heading away, The research was commissioned by Virgin Red, which has teamed up with Alfie Watts to reveal travel tips, while sending him off on a trip around the globe armed with the brand's reward points. Read more Travel Alfie, who visited three continents in 72 hours using them, said: 'Travel doesn't have to break the bank, especially if you are using travel hacks and this trip proves it. 'I flew 9,000 miles across three continents in just 72 hours and stayed in incredible places using points that can be earned through everyday spending like shopping, commuting, and booking holidays. 'But it's not just about the flights – it's the little hacks that make a big difference. 'I normally pack light to avoid pricey hold luggage fees and I also use Most read in News Travel 'I learned from previous experience that sometimes a long-haul flight pays off when the cost of living at your destination is super low, which help to balance out costs. 'Hiring a car and asking locals for recommendations also allows me the freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. The five-star hotel in Turkey where waitresses in rollerblades serve ice-cold beer 'These are the ultimate travel hacks that lots of people can use when planning a trip or already abroad. 'The beauty is, they are open to anyone." According to the research, travellers utilise an average of three hacks on a typical holiday, with 57 per cent getting tips from friends and family. While 14 per cent look to social media for guidance on ways they could benefit when heading away. Family holidays, relaxing escapes and weekend breaks were the most common trips taken according to the data. Nearly four in 10 (39 per cent) also collect loyalty points, with hotel stays, flight upgrades and shopping vouchers the top things they'd be used for by respondents. While 42 per cent of respondents feel they have definitely missed out by not collecting points from previous trips. Top 10 hacks before travelling Booking flights to leave on weekdays Booking flights and hotels together (i.e. in a package deal) Using flight comparison websites Packing light to avoid baggage fees Booking accommodation with free cancellation Booking flights to leave during off-peak times Checking alternative airports (i.e. looking to fly to/from an airport that isn't the 'main' airport at/near my destination) Booking last-minute deals Using loyalty points for upgrades or other discounts Using credit card travel benefits It also emerged 26 per cent of all respondents said certain hacks have influenced their decision on where to travel. Of these, 61 per cent said they helped them find more affordable travel options, with 51 per cent admitting they discovered new, lesser-known destinations. More than eight in 10 (83 per cent) of younger travellers aged between 24 and 44 were found to trust travel advice from people who are 'in the know', compared with only 58 per cent of those aged 65 and above. Of those to utilise travel hacks, 20 per cent like to keep them to themselves so others don't benefit, but 33 per cent like to share the love. Interestingly, 26 per cent of all respondents said certain hacks have influenced their decision on where to travel. Finding more affordable options, discovering lesser-known destinations and choosing somewhere with lesser visa requirements were some of the influences. Vicki Simpson from Virgin Red added: "The research has shown that travellers are always keen to utilise hacks where possible. 'Alfie's trip shows how far loyalty points can get you. 'Reward points give travellers the chance to fast track their travels while slowing their spending. 'Whether it's a short weekend away or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, these smarter ways to travel can undoubtedly make a difference." Top 10 hacks when on holiday Rolling clothes to save space Bringing snacks to avoid expensive airport food Always having paper versions of your documents Using a portable charger Packing a small first aid kit Using public transport instead of taxis Saving digital copies of travel documents Booking accommodations with free breakfast Notify your bank to avoid card blocks Downloading offline maps to find your way around 4 Flying long haul can sometimes be cheaper overall if its to a bargain destination Credit: SWNS 4 Making sure that you pack light can reduce unnecessary luggage expenses Credit: SWNS
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Scottish Sun
Ultimate travel hacks from credit card benefits to weekday travel, survey shows
Asking locals for recommendations can help you avoid pricey tourist spots PACK IT IN Ultimate travel hacks from credit card benefits to weekday travel, survey shows A SURVEY has revealed the common hacks Brits love to make the most out of their holidays. Four in 10 consider themselves a 'travel hacker' – using tips and tricks to maximise their holidays. Advertisement 4 Booking flights that leave on weekdays, and using incognito mode can help you save money Credit: SWNS 4 Using loyalty points can also be a great way to reduce the cost Credit: SWNS Booking flights to leave on weekdays, packaging hotels and journeys together and using loyalty points for upgrades were some of the top tips according to the 2,000 holidayers polled. While utilising credit card travel benefits, buying at certain times of day for better deals and using incognito mode for flight searches were other hacks frequently used when planning ahead. And when heading away, rolling up clothes to save space, bringing snacks to the airport to avoid overpriced food and carrying a portable charger were tricks respondents had up their sleeve. The research was commissioned by Virgin Red, which has teamed up with Alfie Watts to reveal travel tips, while sending him off on a trip around the globe armed with the brand's reward points. Advertisement Alfie, who visited three continents in 72 hours using them, said: 'Travel doesn't have to break the bank, especially if you are using travel hacks and this trip proves it. 'I flew 9,000 miles across three continents in just 72 hours and stayed in incredible places using points that can be earned through everyday spending like shopping, commuting, and booking holidays. 'But it's not just about the flights – it's the little hacks that make a big difference. 'I normally pack light to avoid pricey hold luggage fees and I also use an eSIM to stay connected without needing to switch out my physical SIM. Advertisement 'I learned from previous experience that sometimes a long-haul flight pays off when the cost of living at your destination is super low, which help to balance out costs. 'Hiring a car and asking locals for recommendations also allows me the freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. The five-star hotel in Turkey where waitresses in rollerblades serve ice-cold beer 'These are the ultimate travel hacks that lots of people can use when planning a trip or already abroad. 'The beauty is, they are open to anyone." Advertisement According to the research, travellers utilise an average of three hacks on a typical holiday, with 57 per cent getting tips from friends and family. While 14 per cent look to social media for guidance on ways they could benefit when heading away. Family holidays, relaxing escapes and weekend breaks were the most common trips taken according to the data. Nearly four in 10 (39 per cent) also collect loyalty points, with hotel stays, flight upgrades and shopping vouchers the top things they'd be used for by respondents. Advertisement While 42 per cent of respondents feel they have definitely missed out by not collecting points from previous trips. Top 10 hacks before travelling Booking flights to leave on weekdays Booking flights and hotels together (i.e. in a package deal) Using flight comparison websites Packing light to avoid baggage fees Booking accommodation with free cancellation Booking flights to leave during off-peak times Checking alternative airports (i.e. looking to fly to/from an airport that isn't the 'main' airport at/near my destination) Booking last-minute deals Using loyalty points for upgrades or other discounts Using credit card travel benefits It also emerged 26 per cent of all respondents said certain hacks have influenced their decision on where to travel. Of these, 61 per cent said they helped them find more affordable travel options, with 51 per cent admitting they discovered new, lesser-known destinations. More than eight in 10 (83 per cent) of younger travellers aged between 24 and 44 were found to trust travel advice from people who are 'in the know', compared with only 58 per cent of those aged 65 and above. Advertisement Of those to utilise travel hacks, 20 per cent like to keep them to themselves so others don't benefit, but 33 per cent like to share the love. Interestingly, 26 per cent of all respondents said certain hacks have influenced their decision on where to travel. Finding more affordable options, discovering lesser-known destinations and choosing somewhere with lesser visa requirements were some of the influences. Vicki Simpson from Virgin Red added: "The research has shown that travellers are always keen to utilise hacks where possible. Advertisement 'Alfie's trip shows how far loyalty points can get you. 'Reward points give travellers the chance to fast track their travels while slowing their spending. 'Whether it's a short weekend away or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, these smarter ways to travel can undoubtedly make a difference." Top 10 hacks when on holiday Rolling clothes to save space Bringing snacks to avoid expensive airport food Always having paper versions of your documents Using a portable charger Packing a small first aid kit Using public transport instead of taxis Saving digital copies of travel documents Booking accommodations with free breakfast Notify your bank to avoid card blocks Downloading offline maps to find your way around 4 Flying long haul can sometimes be cheaper overall if its to a bargain destination Credit: SWNS Advertisement
The Sun
3 days ago
- The Sun
Ultimate travel hacks from credit card benefits to weekday travel, survey shows
A SURVEY has revealed the common hacks Brits love to make the most out of their holidays. Four in 10 consider themselves a 'travel hacker' – using tips and tricks to maximise their holidays. 4 4 Booking flights to leave on weekdays, packaging hotels and journeys together and using loyalty points for upgrades were some of the top tips according to the 2,000 holidayers polled. While utilising credit card travel benefits, buying at certain times of day for better deals and using incognito mode for flight searches were other hacks frequently used when planning ahead. And when heading away, rolling up clothes to save space, bringing snacks to the airport to avoid overpriced food and carrying a portable charger were tricks respondents had up their sleeve. The research was commissioned by Virgin Red, which has teamed up with Alfie Watts to reveal travel tips, while sending him off on a trip around the globe armed with the brand's reward points. Alfie, who visited three continents in 72 hours using them, said: 'Travel doesn't have to break the bank, especially if you are using travel hacks and this trip proves it. 'I flew 9,000 miles across three continents in just 72 hours and stayed in incredible places using points that can be earned through everyday spending like shopping, commuting, and booking holidays. 'But it's not just about the flights – it's the little hacks that make a big difference. 'I normally pack light to avoid pricey hold luggage fees and I also use an eSIM to stay connected without needing to switch out my physical SIM. 'I learned from previous experience that sometimes a long-haul flight pays off when the cost of living at your destination is super low, which help to balance out costs. 'Hiring a car and asking locals for recommendations also allows me the freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. The five-star hotel in Turkey where waitresses in rollerblades serve ice-cold beer 'These are the ultimate travel hacks that lots of people can use when planning a trip or already abroad. 'The beauty is, they are open to anyone." According to the research, travellers utilise an average of three hacks on a typical holiday, with 57 per cent getting tips from friends and family. While 14 per cent look to social media for guidance on ways they could benefit when heading away. Family holidays, relaxing escapes and weekend breaks were the most common trips taken according to the data. Nearly four in 10 (39 per cent) also collect loyalty points, with hotel stays, flight upgrades and shopping vouchers the top things they'd be used for by respondents. While 42 per cent of respondents feel they have definitely missed out by not collecting points from previous trips. It also emerged 26 per cent of all respondents said certain hacks have influenced their decision on where to travel. Of these, 61 per cent said they helped them find more affordable travel options, with 51 per cent admitting they discovered new, lesser-known destinations. More than eight in 10 (83 per cent) of younger travellers aged between 24 and 44 were found to trust travel advice from people who are 'in the know', compared with only 58 per cent of those aged 65 and above. Of those to utilise travel hacks, 20 per cent like to keep them to themselves so others don't benefit, but 33 per cent like to share the love. Interestingly, 26 per cent of all respondents said certain hacks have influenced their decision on where to travel. Finding more affordable options, discovering lesser-known destinations and choosing somewhere with lesser visa requirements were some of the influences. Vicki Simpson from Virgin Red added: "The research has shown that travellers are always keen to utilise hacks where possible. 'Alfie's trip shows how far loyalty points can get you. 'Reward points give travellers the chance to fast track their travels while slowing their spending. 'Whether it's a short weekend away or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, these smarter ways to travel can undoubtedly make a difference." 4 4
Daily Mail
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
EXCLUSIVE Race Across the World winner reveals how he travelled across three continents in four days - without spending a penny
A former Race Across the World winner has revealed how he managed to visit three continents in just four days - all without spending a single penny. Alfie Watts, who won fourth series of the epic BBC reality show in 2024, partnered with Virgin Red to test just how far travel hacking - which involves the savvy use of loyalty points, insider tips, and strategic planning - can take travellers. Using 224,000 Virgin Points, the 22-year-old from St. Albans travelled 9,000 miles from Johannesburg to London, before ending his trip in New York City, ticking off bucket list destinations in Africa, Europe and North America in less than a week. As more young Brits adopt a 'travel hacking' mindset, Virgin Red 's latest research shows 55 per cent of Gen Z already consider themselves savvy travellers, with over 40 per cent regretting not earning points on past trips. The survey of 2,000 UK travellers also found over half (52 per cent) now plan their holidays around hacks, and 61 per cent use them to find more affordable travel options. Alfie's journey began in South Africa, where he immersed himself in the vibrant culture of Johannesburg, exploring the stylish spaces of Rosebank and 44 Stanley Street. From there, he flew overnight to London to enjoy iconic street food at Borough Market, before catching another long-haul flight to New York - all covered entirely with points. Visiting Johannesburg was a particularly meaningful experience for Watts, who has long wanted to explore South Africa. One of his highlights was seeing the FNB Stadium in person - the site of the 2010 FIFA World Cup's opening match, which he described as the moment that sparked his childhood love of football. He said: 'It was the first football event that I watched as a kid, that, like, got me into football, which is behind travel, my second passion. 'That was pretty remarkable because I got to see that in the flesh and I just think, being able to explore Johannesburg which someone has been on my list for such a long time. It was really special.' Despite the whirlwind nature of the trip, Watts said the key to making the most of his time was smart scheduling. The avid traveller revealed he made the most of every stop by cleverly using overnight flights to maximise time on the ground to explore each location. He pointed out that while back-to-back long-haul flights are always a challenge, he found the experience manageable, especially with the comfort of premium economy on the final leg to New York. The entire trip was solely covered by Virgin Red points, with Watts revealing he spent 88,000 Virgin Points on his premium economy flight from London to New York - a journey he says can cost as little as 16,500 with more flexibility. Watts commented: 'If I was more flexible with my days, I'd have got a much better deal for myself. But I thought it was important to still show how far you can get using just points because of the extensive route network.' The entire trip was solely covered by Virgin Red points, with Watts revealing he spent 88,000 Virgin Points on his premium economy flight from London to New York - a journey he says can cost as little as 16,500 with more flexibility In total, Alfie used 224,000 Virgin Points to fund the whole trip, which included his overnight stay at a Virgin hotel in New York once the challenge had come to an end In total, Alfie used 224,000 Virgin Points to fund the whole trip, which included his overnight stay at a Virgin hotel in New York once the challenge had come to an end. The value of points, which can be exchanged for flights, upgrades and hotel stays - depends on how they are redeemed, but can be worth up to 2p each when used for business or first-class Virgin Atlantic fights, and around 0.5p for economy flights. He encouraged would-be travel hackers to start off small by checking which everyday purchases and high street retailers are linked to loyalty schemes like Virgin Red. By simply linking accounts and continue regular spending habits, travellers can can collect points without purchasing a plane ticket - even common services like food delivery apps, he noted, can earn points when linked properly. Watts added: 'It can be a really difficult thing to get your head around. Hands down, best thing to do is just go to the virtual website, then see where you spend money.' 'Sign up, link your accounts, and then your Virgin points will just start dropping into your account as you spend.' On Deliveroo, for example, new customers can earn 7 points with every £1 spent, while existing customers can earn 2 points with every £1 spent. Watts also confessed he previously missed out on points by not taking travel hacking seriously - but after this challenge, he's planning to get more strategic for future trips. He said: 'You don't actually realise about how much value you're you're losing out just by just by not linking your account, so it's definitely something that I'm going to start doing. 'I am going away for three weeks, but when I get back, I'm going to properly knuckle down and start being a bit more savvy.' The BBC star is now about to set off on a trip to the US, but playfully mentioned if he could go anywhere using only Virgin Points, he'd opt for 'Virgin Atlantic Upper Class to the Maldives, followed by a premium economy trip to St Vincent and the Grenadines'. For more information on how to set up a Virgin Red account and begin earning points and rewards, visiting the website here.
The Sun
7 days ago
- The Sun
I won Race Across the World – here are my money-saving travel tricks and the best destinations to holiday on the cheap
IN 2024, Alfie Watts became the youngest winner of Race Across the World - and since then he's visited a whopping 65 countries. Now, he's sharing his tips on how to holiday on a budget - and you can use lots of them too - from the Virgin Red loyalty scheme to making the most of laundry services at hotels. 8 Earlier this month, Alfie, 21, took on a challenge with Virgin Red to see how far he could travel using loyalty points. Using the scheme, he booked a trip from Johannesburg to London, to New York. While he says you have to pay taxes and charges on the flights, it still works out as being a lot cheaper. When Alfie spoke to Sun Travel, he insisted anyone can take advantage of the scheme, he said: "You can accrue Virgin points by spending with every day retailers. "Buying flights or train tickets can earn you points, or even if you sign up with Virgin Media for your WiFi." To get points you need to spend through the Virgin Red app, and it's not necessarily big items either, they work with brands like Tesco, Just Eat, M&S and Boots. Then use your points when you're ready to fly. Of course, using loyalty schemes isn't the only way to save money. As a frequent traveller, Alfie revealed there's something he won't spend his cash on - an extra suitcase. The cost of an additional bag can vary based on the airline, route, and whether its bought online or at the airport - but it can cost up to £140. 'I tried out the Race Across the World Experience in London' 8 8 Taking more luggage also means you have to take it with you for the duration of your trip, in and out of the airport, so it can be hassle. What Alfie suggested is to ditch the extra case and make the most of laundry services. He told us: "I don't think people appreciate washing and laundrettes enough. "Every hotel has a washing service, but also if you're in a town or city, they will have a laundrette, and it's so much cheaper. "You can wash them yourself too, but they can get so wet and it's hard to dry them out, unless you're in a really hot country - then you can just lay them outside." Another travel must-have for Alfie is an eSim. Rather than finding a phone shop to get a local sim, you can buy and download these onto your phone before you fly. You can choose a data plan and they're easy enough to top up if you're out and about and running low. Alfie said: "I think having an eSIM is an absolute essential. "I always, always use one because there aren't many mobile network providers any more and EU roaming doesn't apply in certain places." He continued: "When it comes to booking flights, I find there's a sweet spot at the six to eight week mark. "There's so much conflicting information, a lot will say book when the flights first get released. "But I've found that at around six weeks before the flight, then the prices will drop, given it's not the high season." There is one thing that Alfie won't compromise on, no matter the price. He revealed: "I'll never ever scrimp on safety. For example, I went to Venezuela and I did not care about spending £150 a night on a hotel in Caracas. "Staying out of the city was not a risk I wanted to take. You've got to be mindful of your surroundings - especially to any young people going backpacking." 8 8 Now, as for where to visit, Alfie gives us the low-down on where the cheapest holiday destinations are - and his favourites. He said: " Malaysia is number one, it's got so much variety, cultural diversity and it's so cheap." "Some of the cities are so developed it's hard to believe that's where you are. And the food, it's so authentic and you can get great dishes at the market for not a lot of money. "It's got all the bits of Southeast Asia that you love and it's completely safe, and the water's drinkable." Another country that Alfie recommends to travellers is Jordan. He revealed: "Jordan as a country is spectacular. People will go just for Petra, but the whole place is brilliant, you've got the desert and cities in the north. "The people are so friendly, and they love that you're visiting as a Brit." 8 Sticking to Europe, Alfie's other tip is that the further east you go, the cheaper it becomes. He added: " I went to Moldova, that was really cheap. And Uzbekistan had great value for money. "When I went, we were on the tourist trail which made things a bit more expensive. But we got a half an hour taxi which cost 20,000 UZS which is is £1.16." Alfie can't stop globetrotting and confessed the Marshall Islands in the Pacific Ocean are on his bucket list, but there are places in the UK that are close to his heart too. "I love Orkney in Scotland, it's really hidden away and out of the tourist trail. "I went over Christmas and New Year so it was dark and cold but really beautiful. "And there's always a special place in my heart for Cornwall, specifically at the bottom of St Ives. "There are some islands that I need to see too, the Isles of Scilly - that's where I want to go next." Alfie also revealed how to get two bucket list trips cheaper than a holiday to Majorca. Here's what I thought when I tried the new Race Across the World The Experience – fans of the BBC TV show will love it. 8
