How to Beat the Crowds this Summer

If you’ve ever arrived at a popular beach mid-afternoon, and been unable to find a free spot of sand to spread out your towel (let alone a free car park), you’ll know what vacation-envy feels like. It also occurs every time you end up with the motel without a beach view or the camping spot right beside the ablution block. Here’s the thing – your summer break doesn’t have to be second best if you devote a little thought to it before you leave home. Check out our tips, below, and we’re pretty confident your break away will be better than ever. 

Advance

Spontaneity may be the spice of life, but if you’re hoping to wing accommodation to your liking over the Christmas break – forget it. By booking ahead, you’ll get the best of everything from destinations, comfort, and views, to early bird discounts and deals. And peace of mind is worth even more!

Use a chauffeur

Kiwis are notorious for not taking public transport – but when summer arrives, and the roads are choka (and often dangerous), why wouldn’t you? Taking public transport means you can enjoy the scenery on the way (instead of watching out for traffic), and if you plan ahead, your accommodation provider may also be available to collect you from your bus or train stop. Don’t forget to book your ticket early for the best discount deals.

Research

Before you head away, check out what’s happening in the region you’ll be visiting. There are often holiday events and summer entertainment only the locals know about. One of the best places to look is on Facebook’s ‘Events’ section (adjust the filters to suit your dates and destination). Or phone ahead to the i-site office of your destination, and ask what’s happening over summer.

Read the reviews

Life’s too short for disappointing meals and dud destinations, so before you leave home, be sure to use the internet to check out reviews on everything from restaurants to walks. You’ll often find reviews offer tips (such as the best time of day to go to a venue, or special deals not well advertised).

Avoid the queues

No one wants to spend their summer waiting in a queue with a load of other frustrated holiday makers – and when you book ahead, you don’t need to. So, if you’re after takeaways, pick up a menu when you’re passing your chosen outlet, then phone in your order later in the day, and duck down to collect it when it’s ready.  Book restaurants ahead of time, too (and ask for a table with a view while you’re at it). If you’re heading out to the movies, a festival, or a show, order your tickets online, or in person earlier in the day.

Fun freebies

Everyone loves a freebie – and summer is the time to score them. Google your destination ahead of time to see what’s available. If you’re holidaying with grandies, there’s almost almost always a fun fair or activity that doesn’t cost a cent!

Beat the crowds!

Avoiding the crowds – whether it’s at restaurants or the beach – is so easy when you time your outings to take advantage of the lull. Choosing breakfast over brunch is a winner every time. As is a late lunch instead of the dinner time rush. Head to the supermarket early in the morning before the crowds descend (and pick up the best of the fresh produce while you’re at it), and relax at the pool in the evening while everyone else is dining out. Beating the crowds is so easy and super-satisfying.

Weather watch

Check out the weather forecast when you arrive at your destination (MetVUE is a great site). Then plan your activities (and your clothing) around it.

Leave space

Although planning helps make your holiday even more enjoyable, remember not to fill up every hour of the day. You’re bound to meet other holiday makers or locals who will recommend activities or destinations you didn’t know about – so leave some gaps to check these out.

Here’s to happy holidaying!