Top Tips for smooth(er) holiday travels

November 16, 2022

‘TIS THE SEASON

The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) just released these stats for Americans and I’m honestly not surprised. 

 

With the influx of inquiries and pent up demand that we are currently seeing, the world is willing and able to travel…especially this holiday season.

 

Here are some of our TOP TIPS to help you handle traveling during the upcoming holiday season:

 

Be Prepared – Lines will be longer, weather delays will happen and crowds will be at an all time high so prepare for the worst and hope for the best by doing the following:

 

✈️Carry-On Only – this will eliminate the stress of lost luggage and gives you the flexibility to change flights/planes quickly, if needed

 

✈️ Be Early – being late always amplifies the stress of traveling so give yourself (and everyone around you) the gift of extra time to wait in lines, park the car and account for unpredictable traffic

 

✈️ Be Flexible – understand that things beyond your control can happen so be ready  to accommodate some challenges

 

Be Patient – While demand may have recovered from the pandemic, some travel suppliers are still working out the kinks, especially the airlines. And during peak travel periods, the flaws really start to show. From pilot and worker shortages to reduced flight schedules, understand that the travel industry is still recovering and try to pack your patience.  

 

Be Kind – Please remember that while you are trying to make a flight or standing in a long check-in line at a resort that these things do not operate without the employees working on and during the holiday season. A little holiday cheer and kindness goes a long way

 

Safe travels friends! 

 

BOOKING AIRFARE GOTCHA FEELING STRESSED?

Trust me, you aren’t the only one! 

 

As Travel Advisors, we get asked about airfare all the time. So we put together some Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for you:

 

Q: BEST TIME TO BOOK DOMESTIC AIRFARE?

 

A: BETWEEN 28-35 DAYS OUT

Travelers that booked during that period saved 10% on average compared to last minute travelers; however, if you have a preferred schedule, then we recommend 3 months prior

 

 

Q: BEST TIME TO BOOK INTERNATIONAL AIRFARE?

 

A: 6 MONTHS OUT

Travelers who book around 6 months in advance save 10% on average compared to those who wait until 2 months out or less

 

 

Q: WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO AVOID FLIGHT DISRUPTIONS?

 

A: DEPART BEFORE 3PM

While this is never fool proof – flights that depart after 3pm have a 50% higher chance of a delay/cancellation on average than those that depart earlier in the day

 

 

Q: WHAT IS THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK TO BOOK AIRFARE?

 

A: SUNDAY

Travelers who book on Sundays instead of Fridays tend to save @ 5% on domestic flights and @ 15% on international flights

 

 

Q: WHAT IS THE BEST DAY OF THE WEEK TO DEPART?

 

A: WEDNESDAY

Travelers who start a trip on WED vs. SUN/MON save @ 15% on domestic flights & @ 10% on international flights