Beat the credit crunch this summer with lastminute.com

Despite news that the credit crunch is set to continue, Brits can still get out and about and make big savings this summer according to leisure and travel retailer lastminute.com. Here are some expert top tips on how to bag yourself some bargains.

1. Fine dining need not be off the menu. Many restaurants, including fine dining restaurants offer lunch time specials including up to 50% off, 2-4-1 courses and complimentary glass of wine.

2. Theatre lovers can club together in order to make great savings. Download the lastminute.com TheatreClub application on Facebook and make group savings on some top name shows including Les Miserable's.

3. Birthdays and Christmas are a great chance to ask for practical gifts such as gym memberships, hair salon gift certificates or if you are thinking of embarking on a new hobby then you can try before you buy on a number of experiences such as dance lessons, cookery skills or even pole dancing.

4. The credit crunch doesn’t mean you can’t still pamper yourself. Many big name spas and beauty salons offer 2-4-1 offers, complimentary treatments and big savings if you book your next appointment on payment.

5. When visiting a theme park take a packed lunch to avoid spending big bucks on a burger. By booking theme park tickets online can save you up to 50% on entrance tickets. At lastminute.com savings include up to 20% off Alton Towers, 35% off Chessington World of Adventures and up to 50% off Thorpe Park.

6. Don’t despair; dinner can still be affordable, even at fine dining restaurants. It sounds tedious, but keep a track of what you are spending. By packing your own lunch as much as possible can mean saving a small fortune. For example, saving £5.00 a day on a sandwich and coke can add up to as much as £1300 a year. Booking before peak times can also take pounds off the bill.

7. London and the surrounding areas have some fantastic free activities such as museums, art galleries, parks and exhibitions. lastminute.com has compiled the best London Walks which such as Camden to Little Venice - all of which can be downloaded online.