How to make the most of salon international on a budget

With all the excitement surrounding Salon International, it can be easy to get carried away with your cash and run out before the day is done. By using a bit of careful planning and clever decision-making, you can make the most of your money, and take home all the essential items you need. 

Be careful when choosing what to buy. If you're looking for that perfect pair of scissors and think you've spotted them as soon as you've walked in, visit as many stands as you can before actually making a purchase. You might find an alternative pair of equal quality that cost less, or you could find the same scissors for a snip of the price. Some sellers might also be willing to price-match if you have spotted something at a cheaper rate. 

If you can't afford the bigger shows at Salon International, there are plenty of free demonstrations and performances going on in The Hair Show. You will also see some top hairdressers working on smaller presentations in the main arena and on the HJ Stage.

If you're a student, you can get discounted tickets to Salon International and some seminars also offer student discounts. If you're not a student, you can save on entry price by booking all three days at a discounted rate. Go to www.salonexhibition.co.uk for full details. 

There is plenty in the way of food and drink on offer at Salon International but buying every meal can add up. Take a packed lunch, then treat yourself to a glass of wine, or a coffee and a croissant in the Boulevard. 

If you're purchasing train tickets, book as far ahead as possible and check for the cheapest tickets, offers are available at www.thetrainline.com. You can also sign up for an email alert, which will let you know when the cheapest possible tickets go on sale.

If you're driving, save as much money as possible by car-sharing and splitting the petrol costs. 

Salon International has also arranged a free booking service through Jigsaw Conferences, who can find up to 40% off rates for travel and hotel bookings. 

Book online at www.salonexhibitions.co.uk, or call 0870 6260 148 quoting 'Salon International' for special deals.