It’s that time of year when every company seems to be running a sale, competing for your attention and money. With so many deals out there, finding the best travel bargains can become quite overwhelming. I’ve spent countless hours looking for the perfect routes, dates, and times to get the deal I want. While it can be fun, it’s also time-consuming, but the savings are worth it.
Everyone wants to get the best travel deals, whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to splurge. It’s not just about budget or luxury travel, but using common sense to make the best choices for yourself and to place the right value on your travel experiences.
I wanted to share some simple tips to help you navigate these sales. These are the steps I follow when booking a big trip, and they’ve always helped me get the best prices.
First, try clearing your cookies or using Incognito Mode when hunting for deals. This prevents websites from tracking your search history and potentially increasing prices based on your interest. Interestingly, some companies charge different prices depending on the browser you use, so it’s worth checking prices across different browsers. Also, check company apps as they sometimes offer lower rates to encourage app usage.
Once you find a deal on flights and hotels, consider booking parts separately. Creating your own package can sometimes turn out cheaper, even during sales. Also, last-minute deals can offer big savings if your schedule is flexible.
Avoid immediately opting for all extras. Companies often try to upsell, but you can usually add services like checked luggage or seat upgrades later on, often with discounts closer to your travel date.
Research to find the cheapest days to fly to your chosen destination. Tools like Skyscanner can help identify cost-saving patterns throughout the year. Staying flexible with your destination and travel dates can lead to significant savings. Airlines are often eager to fill seats on new or less popular routes, so watch out for these opportunities.
Finally, don’t feel pressured by websites claiming “only 2 seats left” or similar tactics. Travel companies frequently hold sales, so there’s no need to rush into buying under pressure.
Use discount codes to get additional savings on platforms like Hotels.com. Websites like Google Flights can help you track flight price fluctuations, giving you better insight into when to book. Following these tips can help stretch your travel budget further and make travel planning a lot less stressful.
