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Bargain-hunting holidaymakers can slash hundreds of pounds off the cost of a break by using cashback sites and cards, according to a new consumer watchdog report.

The savings were discovered when researchers for Which? used top cashback sites to book two holidays.

The magazine found the most you could earn on a two-week holiday for two to Florida, by using a combination of TopCashback, Quidco and the AMEX Platinum cashback card, was £318 (11 per cent of total cost).

Huge savings: a two-week holiday for two to Florida was £318 cheaper using cashback sites

But even a week in the Lake District for two could be made £158 cheaper by following Which?'s advice and using a range of cashback options.

Which? editor Richard Headland, said: 'We've found cashback websites can save hundreds of pounds off the cost of holidays especially if you book with a cashback credit card. 

'However don't just look at cashback sites because, as always, it can pay to shop around.'

The magazine says that its snapshot research found cashback deals change regularly so advise holidaymakers to check the websites everyday and to use a cashback credit card to maximise  savings.

It also warns that cashback sites aren't regulated so withdraw your money regularly.

Cheap break: A week in the Lake District for two could be made £158 cheaper by following Which?'s advice

Which? says that it heard mainly positive stories from the 1,292 members we asked about cashback sites, but it warns there are things to watch for. 

Which? said: 'Never buy products just for the cashback deal - the flight or hotel might be cheaper elsewhere so shop around. Some sites only release the money once you've reached a threshold, such as £25. 

'It can take months to get your cashback. the sites aren't regulated, so withdraw your money regularly. 

'Cashback websites pay you a cash reward when you click through from them to buy products.

'The two main sites - Quidco and TopCashback - offer cashback on holidays, flights and hotels.'

'Retailers pay the cashback site for bringing in new customers - and the cashback site hands you a cut as a reward for using its services and to encourage you to come back.'