Stealing yourself the best deals for your next trip requires quite a bit of research beforehand.
Crazily, surveys suggest that only 48% of us use our mobile devices for destination research, so you can stay well ahead of the game and get to your dream destination without breaking the bank.
This guide should lay out everything you need when planning your next getaway to ensure you the best deals available.
Timing Is Crucial
The travel deal that you manage to secure yourself, more often than not, boils down to the timing.
When you decide to book, it is pivotal to the price of the booking. Below are a few timing tips that can reduce your booking costs considerably.
Early V’s Late, Seasons, and Flexibility
While many tout last-minute as the cheapest way to go, it comes with caveats. We will discuss later how to make the most of late deals, but if you have a destination in mind and are planning a trip in advance you have to find the sweet spot for booking.
Initially, an airline will gauge a price based on the expected or predicted demand. When they don’t see it manifest early on they tend to drop the prices to attract buyers, and then once seats are filled they will raise them again.
The price of a typical domestic flight differs heavily throughout the period it is available. A good rule of thumb is to book around 6-8 weeks beforehand. International flights are usually cheaper around 3-6 months beforehand.
Here’s a few more advice for you:
- Remember, off-peak seasons also have lower-priced activities and entrance prices to local attractions.
- Fare comparison tools can help you spot the best day to travel; being flexible will often land you a more cost-effective option. Travelers on domestic flights tend to save around $90 when they fly mid-week.
How to Take Advantage of Last-Minute Deals
If you can afford to be a little more spontaneous, then there are better deals you can get your hands on.
Flexibility allows you to take advantage of last-minute deals, which often offer the best savings; here are some tips.
Use Last-Minute Booking Apps
There are different apps that can provide discounted accommodation.
Leaving where you stay to the last minute could be too risky for some, but if you have an open itinerary and are able to travel to find a discounted bed, then you are in for a steal.
Sometimes luxury places are available at a fraction of their usual price. In 2022, 55% of hotel bookings using the Hopper App were made on the same day.
Go All-Inclusive
Package deals can sometimes be wrapped up to look more attractive than they are when you buy in advance but a last-minute all-inclusive can genuinely provide unbeatable value.
You might even find yourself able to jet-set to luxury destinations such as the Caribbean with your flights, accommodation, and meals thrown in without the luxury price tag.
Tech Tips for Better Deals
Of course, these days, we have technology at our fingertips to help find the best deals on trips and travel.
Set Yourself Alerts
Many flight-finding platforms and apps, such as Google Flights and Skyscanner, have the option to set up alerts to notify you of changes in flight prices to your saved destinations.
Fare alerts can help ensure you don’t miss out.
Always Run A Cross-Comparison
Sites such as Momondo and Expedia collect prices from across multiple airlines and hotels, showing you what is available and for how much.
Seeing the price so clearly allows you to make informed decisions when planning travel. They can even cross-compare car rental agencies at your destination.
Budget Airlines and Other Airports
Although they receive their share of complaints, traveling with a budget airline will often get you the best deal.
Remember to check out nearby airports. Sometimes, the savings to be made outweigh the longer trip to the airport.
Loyalty Programs
Loyalty programs can also help reduce your travel costs many reward systems and credit card point systems can be spent on other aspects of your travel, such as attire for the beach, or restaurant bills.
Be sure to do the following if you are planning a trip on credit:
- Join airline and hotel loyalty programs;
- Use travel credit cards, which offer rewards points for every dollar spent and strong sign-up bonuses;
- Stack discounts.
Finding Deals On the Go
Once you have booked there are other deals to be had at your destination, below are just a few ideas.
Feast Like a Local
If you aren’t on an all-inclusive, then eating can drain a lot of your budget, especially for families. Remember, when in Rome, try to dine like the locals.
Instead of heading to the tourist restaurants, seek local eateries and feast for local prices. Many will offer free beverages, or 2-for-1 dining there may be places where kids eat free. Do your research, learn the language, and talk to the neighbors.
Advice on Data Roaming
Before your trip, check with your carrier to see if they offer affordable international deals to avoid getting stung by heavy roaming fees. Alternatively, you might consider an eSIM during your trip.
Otherwise, you can use public Wi-Fi to run your calls and messages through WhatsApp or Skype.
Remember to stay safe online when you are using public networks. Get yourself a VPN Canada to help with encryption, geo-location blocking, and IP masking.
Local Public Transportation
Public transportation like buses, trams, or metro systems often offer multi-day passes that allow you to get around like a local.
They give you an authentic experience and save money that would soon rock up on taxis.
Currency Exchange Homework
If you don’t do a little bit of digging you could find you lose a lot when exchanging currency. The airport typically won’t offer the best rates so never exchange last-minute.
Doing some online comparisons will help you to determine who gives you more bang for your buck.
Often, the cash points at your destination will offer a better rate than the ones in the country you leave behind.
Remember not to spend credit cards abroad unless they specify no foreign transaction fees in their contract.
Conclusion
There are some great travel deals to be had out there, but securing the best involves a bit of research and the ability to be flexible.
Timing is one of the most significant factors, but by flying out of season, taking a mid-week break, or booking at the last minute, you can get a lot for even the lowest of budgets.
Once you are en route, you can keep costs down with dining deals, roaming discounts, and savvy spending.
Hopefully, today’s guide will inspire you to go and grab a budget-friendly adventure.
