Summer travel prices are soaring amidst current global issues, including rising fuel costs driven by the conflict in Iran and the fallout of Spirit Airlines’ collapse. This has left budget travelers feeling the pinch, as other major airlines also increase baggage fees to balance their costs.
However, experts suggest that there are still strategies to help you afford travel this summer. Here are four tips to save on convenience while enjoying your summer trips:
1. Stay Flexible
Airfare prices fluctuate frequently, so remaining flexible about both travel dates and destinations can yield significant savings. Sean Cudahy, a Senior Aviation Reporter at The Points Guy, advises travelers to reverse their approach by searching for flights first rather than choosing a destination. He states, "Search a bunch of different destinations, and pick the flights that fit your budget."
2. Utilize Airline Credits
Cudahy also recommends making the most of any airline trip credits and credit card perks. Additionally, he points out that fares in August are generally cheaper compared to June and July, making it a better option for budget-minded travelers.
3. Leverage Travel Tools
Audrey Kohout, co-CEO of LugLess, suggests using apps like Hopper to monitor and snag cheaper flights. Travelers can also explore bundled travel deals that include flights, hotels, and rental cars to save money.
4. Choose Less Popular Destinations
It’s wise to avoid high-traffic destinations during peak travel seasons, as prices tend to increase. Kohout notes that areas like Florida and the Caribbean are experiencing rising costs due to high demand.
Outlook for Future Airline Prices
Experts hint that as airlines continue to deal with high jet fuel costs, airfares may not decrease significantly anytime soon unless there’s a sharp drop in demand or fuel prices.
Adopting these strategies may help travelers navigate the expensive landscape of summer travel more effectively.