3 Ways To Save on Your Winter Vacations by Booking Before the Holidays
Written by
Angela Mae
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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The average person spends $324 a day on vacation, including meals, transportation and accommodations — and that’s just within the U.S. Even budget travelers spend around $121 per person per day, as per Budget Your Trip. That’s between $847 and $2,268 a week — excluding airfare.
For those planning a winter vacation, here are some ways to score the best holiday travel deals by planning ahead and booking before the holiday rush.
Take Advantage of Early-Bird Discounts
Early-bird discounts are generally available only when you book your trip — whether that’s hotels or airfare — ahead of time. So if you’re flexible and know you want to take a trip, book early.
“According to our data at Dollar Flight Club, the best time to book flights for the holiday season is six to eight weeks in advance,” said Jesse Neugarten, CEO and founder of Dollar Flight Club.
“Lock in your travel plans as early as possible, ideally before the holiday rush starts in late November,” said Karina Frayter, head of corporate communications and PR at Flix North America (FlixBus and Greyhound). “Prices tend to rise sharply closer to peak travel dates, so booking ahead can help you secure the best rates.”
Book Before Demand Increases
As with many things, the law of supply and demand applies to travel. During the holidays, many people receive either monetary gifts or experiences — like trips. This can increase demand for airfare, accommodations and the like, which can then raise prices. To save money, book your trip before the demand increases.
Also think about when you’re traveling. You could try booking a trip for after the holidays — say, in January or even February. With fewer people interested in traveling during these times, you’re more likely to score better deals.
And remember, it never hurts to choose off-peak times or days to travel. Those red-eye and weekday flights tend to be cheaper for a reason — fewer people are doing what you’re doing and airline companies are trying to fill seats.
“Traveling on off-peak days (like flying on Thanksgiving Day itself or returning midweek after New Year’s) can save travelers up to 30% on fares compared to traveling on weekends or the day before the holiday,” Neugarten said.
But remember to book ahead of time for the best discounts.
Leverage Credit Card Rewards and Sign-Up Offers
A cash-back credit card, particularly one with flexible or travel-based rewards, could help you save money when booking your trip.
“For an easy way to offset your travel costs this holiday season, consider using a flexible cash-back credit card that can help you earn rewards on both your everyday spending and travel-related purchases,” said Mary Hines Droesch, head of product for consumer and small business products at Bank of America.
But don’t just get any credit card. Some card issuers have extra bonuses around or before the winter holidays. If you can find one with a great welcome offer or extra travel perks, snag one before you book anything for your trip — and ideally around the fall or early winter.
You might be able to get some extra miles or points for hotels, flights, transportation, dining out and local attractions. Redeem these perks to save money when you book.
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