We're all going on a summer holiday – and no global financial crisis is going to stand in our way.

Research suggests Britons these days regard a holiday as a necessity, not a luxury and, while more of us will take our break on home soil next year, millions of us will still head overseas.

However, with the value of the pound at an all time low against the euro and dollar, cost-conscious consumers are likely to snub the traditional destinations of Spain, France and the US. Last summer a 20 euro dinner would have cost you £14. Now it's £18.

A spokeswoman from Travelex.co.uk said: "The pound has taken a real battering. But though it looks like doom and gloom on paper, there are still a few places where your money will go a long way. South Africa and New Zealand are the top long-haul destinations, and Turkey is a good option closer to home as it's just outside the eurozone.

"If you're going skiing this winter, you might want to consider Romania, Bulgaria or Slovakia, which are also outside the eurozone, although you'll have to be quick with Slovakia as it's joining the euro on January 1."

Ski resorts in these countries have just been named as the best value in the world for UK skiiers in a Post Office survey.

The Romanian resort of Poiana Brasov came top with the average cost of lift passes, equipment, private lessons, meals and drinks coming to £200, followed by High Tatras in Slovakia at £236 and Borovets in Bulgaria at £241.

For those planning a package summer holiday, the trick is to book either very late or very early. Two months before departure the bargains flood in although it does mean limited choice. Booking as much as nine months in advance, meanwhile, will often get you similar discounts.

Sean Tipton, from the Association of British Travel Agents, warns against leaving it late.

"Nine times out of 10, it's better to book early," he said. "Travel companies have substantially cut back on the number of holidays they are selling, and the recent collapse of XL, Britain's third biggest tour operator, has taken a massive chunk out of the market. For a family, it's worth going for the all-inclusive option. That way you won't suffer the effects of the weak pound."

While the internet advertises many of the top deals, one of the best ways to bag a bargain is with good old-fashioned haggling over the phone. These days, travel agents expect to be asked to beat a quote and, as long as you are polite, you've got a good chance of a discount.

Send you money-saving top tips to r.wood@bepp.co.uk