By Rick Seaney / Contributor
The ultimate gift to give or receive during the holidays, birthdays, or anniversaries is the opportunity to travel. It’s not just a gift; it creates lasting memories. Plus, it doesn’t have to break the bank. Follow these easy tips to maximize your budget for what could be a unique experience.
Choosing Your Destination
Begin by selecting a travel destination, and rest assured, there are numerous affordable options available (especially for those near major airports in large cities). Several airfare search websites feature tools that highlight the best deals from your local airport, like my own Getaway Deals Map. This tool allows you to specify your travel dates and budget, presenting you with price options for destinations globally. It’s an effective way to score a deal on a memorable trip.
When to Book
For domestic flights, aim to book tickets on Tuesday afternoons. Airlines typically announce U.S. sales late Monday or early Tuesday, meaning by Tuesday afternoon, other airlines often match these discounted prices. Be cautious not to wait until the last minute to purchase your tickets, as prices tend to increase significantly. Ideally, try to book your tickets at least 30 days in advance.
When to Fly
Traveling during off-peak times doesn’t imply you must visit your favorite location during the dead of winter; consider planning your trip for spring or fall instead of the busy summer months for better savings and to avoid crowds. Just be mindful of certain high-demand periods (like Thanksgiving in the U.S. and Christmas/New Year’s globally); if you can steer clear of these dates, you’ll find better deals.
In the U.S., cheaper travel days are generally Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays; for international flights, weekdays are often less expensive than weekends. This is a general guideline, so ensure to compare prices across various itineraries.
Another tip: if you’re not close to a major airport, it may be worthwhile to drive a couple of hours to the nearest one, as the savings on flights from larger airports could justify the trip.
Searching for Deals and Information
When it comes to finding the best hotel rooms or must-see attractions, the best insights often come from those who have firsthand experience, especially your acquaintances. Engage in discussions with them before resorting to online reviews. Some airfare search websites and reputable hotel chains allow you to subscribe to newsletters that provide you with deals via email. One piece of advice: while checking online reviews, do thorough research; for instance, avoid booking a hotel until you have images of the entire space, including the bathroom.
Solo Travel vs. Traveling with Friends and Family
The gift of travel can be a solo experience for an older child (although it may be wise to check with other parents about arranging for two kids to travel together). You can also ask your child if they would be okay with you joining them. Alternatively, make it an actual family vacation; now that you understand how to keep costs manageable, everyone can enjoy the experience together.
Some airfare search sites: https://www.farecompare.com/
For Getaway Deals Map: https://www.farecompare.com/maps/
Editor’s Note: Rick Seaney, founder of FareCompare.com, is a travel expert dedicated to helping others discover fantastic travel deals both domestically and internationally. Explore for deals at Farecompare.com or reach Rick at TWITTER: @RickSeaney.
