School holiday tips for saving money

School holidays are coming up, and whether you are staying home, going away, or just heading out for the day, RACV has great tips for saving money, staying safe, and keeping the kids entertained.

RACV General Manager - Mobility Julia Hunter recommends checking for discount offers and downloading the free arevo by RACV app before you head out.

“There is a variety of discounts and offers available through membership and rewards programs these school holidays,” said Ms Hunter.

“For example, RACV members can access a great range of benefits and savings on our website, including discounts at LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre, Luna Park, and Puffing Billy.

“Whether you are heading away or staying local, the free arevo by RACV app provides you with the information you will need to plan that successful outing.

“The app gives you offers and discounts at attractions across Australia, plus real-time information on fuel pricing, trip time estimates, and parking rates when you arrive.

“Recent price increases have added extra fuel costs to long-distance travel. It is a good idea to check the cost of fuel at home and along your trip route to see if there are savings to be made when filling up.

“By using the Fuel Finder in the arevo app and simply shopping around for the cheapest price every time they fill up, users can save an average of $299.05 a year or up to 30.3 cents per litre on any given purchase.

“It also offers fuel discount vouchers within the app – providing users with as much as 12 cents off per litre when they shop for fuel at EG Ampol outlets.

“With arevo, Victorians can also plan trips using public transport, including regional journeys with V/Line taking advantage of cheaper daily fares now capped at $10, or plan a bike route on our great network of trails.

“Before you head away, make sure that you have conducted your car safety check, your insurance is up to date, and that you have emergency roadside assistance in place for your peace of mind.”

RACV Head of Home and Business Insurance Kirsty Hayes also suggests cutting down on power consumption and ensuring your home is secure while you are away.

“Before you head away for the school holidays, take a quick look around your home for appliances and systems that don’t need to be connected when you’re not at home,” said Ms Hayes.

“Unplugging unnecessary appliances such as microwaves, washing machines, alarm clocks, computers, and sound systems could reduce the amount of power your home consumes while you are away.

“Smart devices such as smart plugs can help identify sources of high energy use in your home, so you can remotely manage household devices or switch them off.

“It is also a good idea to turn off your water at the main supply when you are away. Burst pipes and flexi hoses can cause extensive damage to your home if you are not there to turn off the water supply.

“Chat to your neighbours and let them know that you are going away. A friendly neighbour can keep an eye on your home, clear the letterbox, water the garden, and help make your home look occupied.

“If you are staying home, it is a great time to do some repairs and general maintenance. Remember to work safely when using ladders, power tools and dangerous chemicals. And if you need help, RACV Trades can book a vetted tradie to come at a time that suits you best.”