Early Bird Travel Deals: Book Early for Big Savings
You've heard the expression the early bird catches the worm. But did you also know that travelers who book flights, hotels, vacations, and cruises in advance save hundreds of dollars as well? Here are the latest and greatest travel deals with dates just a few months from now—Don't miss these early bird specials!
6 Reasons Why You Should Consider an Early-Bird Deal
Booking early isn't always the right answer if you're looking for the cheapest fares. However, for summer vacations that include the most popular dates, it's often the only way! Here are 6 benefits to booking your summer getaway early that you might miss out on with a last minute or later booking.
You should get the exact dates you want: Summer vacations are popular for many reasons, such as the best weather and the fact that you don't have to pull your kids out of school. But that means they sell out fast. Booking early means you have a much higher chance of getting the exact dates you want before they sell out.
The fares are often cheaper: This one depends on the flight, airline, destination and more, but early-bird deals are usually cheaper than if you book with a few months or weeks until departure. Flight prices increase right up until the last-minute if and when seats are still available. You'll also get the the chance to take advantage of offers such as January sales.
Low deposit and gradual payment: Most operators and package provides will allow you to secure your holiday with a low deposit and for you to pay in increments. This gives you plenty of time to save up while paying off the trip little by little.
It's stress-free and leaves more time for planning: Booking last minute is exciting, but it can also be stressful. Taking advantage of early deals means you have plenty of time to plan all the vacation activities, the sights you want to see and all the things you want to do.
Let the pre-vacation buzz build: For us, all that planning and day dreaming is part of the excitement of looking forward to your trip. There's plenty of time for the excitement to build while waiting months for your departure, making finally jetting off all the more rewarding.
It's easier to get time off work: Your employer will also appreciate your insight in booking an early-bird deal. Putting in your paid time off request early will almost certainly lead to it getting approved, saving you more stress and planning.
How Far in Advance Should I Book a Vacation?
Whether you're considering a trip next summer or already on the hunt for a cheap deal, there are many reasons to secure your holiday a year in advance.
Flight schedules for the next year are usually released in September or October. When new flight schedules are first released, fares tend to be at their lowest. As demand for certain dates increases, especially in peak seasons like summer or over public holidays, prices will increase. So if you book your summer vacation many months in advance, you’re much more likely to get a good deal than if you book it just a month or two before. In fact, we've found that around a year in advance is the cheapest time to book a summer vacation. This changes depending on the time of year you travel. For example, breaks such as Easter are usually cheapest at around three months ahead.
Flights aren’t the only reason to look for early-bird travel. Many travel companies are willing to give discounts for travel booked well ahead of time in order to get business on the books for the coming year. Whether you're planning your ultimate solo trip or gathering your friends together for an epic group getaway, you are sure to save money compared with booking closer to the departure date.
Not only that, but you can also very often secure your vacation for a very small deposit. With the trip not taking place until many months or even a year later, most operators are happy to book for a deposit sometimes as low as $10.