With rising travel costs, many people are reconsidering their summer vacation plans. Skyrocketing gas prices, lengthy TSA lines, and disruptions in airline services have led some to consider a staycation as a more viable option. However, travel expert Brian Kelly, known as The Points Guy, suggests that people shouldn’t cancel their trips just yet.
In a recent episode of Bloomberg’s "Everybody’s Business" podcast, Kelly shared effective strategies for managing travel expenses. He emphasized the importance of being proactive with bookings. "Airlines and hotels are using AI to screw us all," he stated, suggesting that savvy travelers should use technology to negotiate better deals.
For instance, he recommends using services like Autopilot to monitor flight prices. If a ticket’s price drops, the service automatically rebooks it, potentially saving travelers money. He also advised monitoring hotel costs through Google Hotels and securing rental cars with AutoSlash.
Kelly continues to champion the benefits of rewards points, informing listeners that banks are eager to offer thousands of dollars for travel. Despite holding numerous credit cards himself, he cautions travelers to manage their finances wisely to avoid accruing debt that negates the value of rewards.
Furthermore, he recommends exploring foreign airline loyalty programs, which may offer more favorable redemption rates compared to major U.S. airlines. For example, flights on Air France may require significantly fewer miles than those on Delta.
For travelers concerned about cancellations, Kelly suggests booking multiple award tickets, as many are fully refundable. This strategy allows you to capitalize on lower prices that might become available closer to the flight date, even if it incurs a small cancellation fee.
Additionally, Nikki Eskin, Bloomberg’s travel expert, pointed out that private jet travel can sometimes be more affordable than it seems, with options like JSX providing competitive pricing that rivals traditional flights.
In summary, while the idea of a staycation may seem tempting given current travel challenges, there are numerous methods to navigate potential pitfalls and still enjoy travel this summer. By leveraging technology, exploring rewards programs, and considering alternative travel options, travelers can make the most of their vacation plans without breaking the bank. If you do choose to stay home, remember to check on your rewards points before they expire.