BOOKINGS of stag, hen and other big parties surge at this time of year as people start planning future fun.

If you are in charge of a large bash or getaway, here is how to maximise your savings . . .

TRIM YOUR TRAVEL: With ­petrol prices creeping up almost daily, car-pooling will cut your costs as a group.
If heading further afield, coach travel is often the cheapest option.

However, National Rail’s GroupSave is also worth checking. It gives groups of three to nine adults a third off off-peak train travel and there is no minimum journey limit.

Currently, you can also save up to 20 per cent on LNER Advance tickets for group bookings of between three and nine people until May 13.

BREAK UP THE BREAK: Staying at hotels can ramp up the cost of your trip, with little extras such as drinks, multiple rooms and breakfast adding up. But breaking up your holiday can help. For example, book a spa day instead of an overnight spa break, then rent a nearby airbnb or cottage for the group. It nearly always works out cheaper. Plus, you can each bring something for dinner, reducing your spending further.

HAGGLE DOWN THE COST: If you are booking an activity or day out for more than six people, haggling by phone could get you a quick discount. Never be afraid to ask outright or request something included to get a bit of money off.

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DINE WITH A DISCOUNT: It’s difficult to score discount bookings at restaurants after a tough year for the industry but it can be done. First, get all the dietary requirements of your group then call your chosen restaurant to see if ordering a set menu could help it out and maybe get you a little extra off — or a freebie included.

SPLIT THE BILL: Worried about arguing over the cost of every little expense? Download Splid (free on iOS and android) to help you divvy up the costs.

BOOK IT YOURSELF: To get even more spending money for the group (or just you) book it all yourself via a cashback site and use loyalty cards to build up points and Air Miles.

• Prices correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability. 

Top swap

SHOW your room some love with this wire heart-shaped shelf unit from Home Bargains for £12.99. Or try Dunelm’s £8 shelves instead.

SAVE: £4.99

Deal of day

SHOW off flowers in this Le Creuset vase. The usual retail price is £47 but it is available for just £24 at TK Maxx.
SAVE: £23

Cheap treat

LITTLE ones will love the Nuby owl teether set, now on sale at aldi.co.uk for £5.99 instead of £8.99.
SAVE: £3

Hot right now

H&M has added more lines to its kids’ sale, with items starting at £2.

What's new?

MAKE sure you head to Aldi for this brrr-illiant buy. Warm up with the Kirkton House heated housecoat for £34.99. It has sold out online – but will be in stores from today.

Shop & save

DOUBLE up and save when you buy two jumbo cord cushions from George at Asda for £12. Usually £7 each.

SAVE: £2 when buying two

Leah’s little helper

IF you want to save a little more on your favourite Indian food, check out the Patak’s and Tilda ranges at The Co-op, with a half-price sale on selected items.

Among the offers are plain naans down from £1.80 to 90p for a two-pack and rice pouches at £1.25, reduced from £2.50.

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