9th December 2025
Are you always hunting for the best holiday deals but worried that planning a break will eat into your savings? Imagine waking up to birdsong, brewing your favourite coffee while watching the misty mornings lift, and taking the day at your own pace, all for less than the cost of a typical week away in the UK.
Whether you’re travelling with the whole family, on a romantic couple’s retreat, or with a group of friends ready to explore the waterways, discover six money-saving tips to give you more wiggle room in your budget without breaking the bank.
Yes, a canal boat holiday can be a great budget-friendly UK staycation option, but it always depends on where you’re travelling to and for how long.
For many, the cost of a holiday is the first (and biggest) concern. According to ABTA’s Holiday Habits Report, one-in-seven (15%) plan to spend less on their next holidays because of cost-of-living challenges. Research also highlights that a two-week holiday abroad averages £4,792, while even a one-week UK break often costs £1,500-£2,500.
In comparison, our ABC Boat Hire canal boat holidays start from just £719 for a 7-night trip*. That means you could enjoy two weeks afloat for less than many families spend on one week elsewhere in the UK.
Over half (53%) of people also say they’d rather cut back on eating out than skip a holiday altogether. After all, a holiday can be the perfect escape from everyday life, and you work extremely hard for it! So, isn’t it convenient that you can enjoy the freedom of exploring the countryside while also saving money and enjoying home-style cooking on board?
With the right money-saving strategies, a narrowboat holiday isn’t just affordable, it’s a holiday you’ll genuinely look forward to, without the regret of checking your bank balance afterwards.
Based on research from HSBC UK, Britons are a nation of ‘holiday splurgers’, spending roughly 33% more on extras than when at home. Figures range between £250-£417 during a one-week holiday! With a little pre-planning, you can comfortably stay under budget and balance your spending with room for moments of indulgence (you are on holiday, after all).
Onboard, fully equipped kitchens make self-catering holidays a breeze, especially when they’re VisitBritain award-worthy. On a canal boat, you’re in control: pack your family’s favourites, cook together, and save money by bringing only what you’ll enjoy. There’s something special about dining on deck as the sun sets over the water, and it’ll cost far less than a takeaway.
Get everyone involved and make a meal plan that fits around your itinerary of cruising, sightseeing, and village pit-stops. A bit of planning means you'll know exactly when to treat yourselves to a canalside pub meal.
Read another 5 reasons why self-catering canal boat holidays beat half-board accommodation.
Another great way to save money is by travelling as a group and sharing the cost. Our ABC Boat Hire narrowboats can host up to 12 people, and the hire price stays the same whether you’re a pair or a dozen on board. Splitting the cost is one of the easiest ways to reduce your per-person spend. MoneySavingExpert also recommends group travel for maximum affordability, and with canals, the social side is half the fun.
If you’re unsure who’s available to travel, why not ask around on your socials or in local community forums?
Like all holidays, prices rise when the kids are off school. A recent GoCompare report found school term-time breaks are some of the most popular getaway periods but often come with a higher price tag, often increasing by at least 9% per person.
Narrowboat holiday season typically runs from March to October, with peak times peaking during the warmer months, when holidaymakers want to flock to water, but who can blame them? While the decision to take children out of school is a personal decision, you can avoid the hectic crowds (and higher prices) by escaping to the countryside via canal instead.
Quieter weeks during peak canal season not only save you money but also offer calmer locks, peaceful towpaths and more mooring options. A win-win for your budget and your peace of mind.
If you only have a few days available for a getaway, why not browse our short breaks? You’ll get all of the perks of a holiday, relaxation, fresh air and adventure in a compact, affordable package.
Unlike many holiday providers, ABC Boat Hire doesn’t charge extra for dogs. Considering that over half (52%) of UK pet owners look for pet-friendly stays, this means you don’t have to pay for a pet-sitter, and you can make memories with your furry friend along the way.
Picture them trotting along the towpath or curling up beside you after a day’s cruising and sniffing the country air. All without kennel costs. Simply let us know on your booking form if you’ll be bringing them along, and check out our dog-friendly guide to canal boat holidays.
Loyalty discounts, long-stay offers, and last-minute deals can make your trip even more affordable. That’s why at ABC Boat Hire, we offer a range of discounts from 12% to 25%, helping you get the most value possible when travelling with us.
Budget-friendly doesn’t mean cutting corners on service, either. In fact, our Feefo rating is classed as ‘Exceptional’, with nearly 19,000 reviews praising our boats, routes, and customer care.
Equifax also recommends that during your trip, if you’re a student or over 65, you may be eligible for discounts on normal rates at attractions and activities, so don’t forget valid ID!
Worried about paying all at once? Our EasyPay payment plan lets you spread the cost of your narrowboat holiday over time. You don’t even need to worry about a hefty upfront deposit, either. Just call our booking team to set up your payment schedule and start planning your next budget-friendly canal boat holiday.
After reaching the marina by car, train, or bus, you won’t need to set aside extra for taxis or transfers, as your narrowboat is both accommodation and transport!
It’s always smart to keep a small emergency fund ready for any outings or activities, ensuring you and your fellow travellers have complete peace of mind.
Affordable, flexible, and full of quintessential charm; canal boat breaks truly are one of the best low-cost UK holiday options. With the tips above, you’ll not only save money but also enjoy a relaxing, rewarding break that feels every bit as special as it is affordable.
Explore our current travel offers or start planning your journey today.
