NEW YORK (WABC) — The summer season may have just begun, but there’s still time to book your summer vacation trip.
7 On Your Side’s Nina Pineda has tips on how to book a last-minute summer trip without going over budget.
The good news is that flights are now cheaper and easier on the wallet, and hotels are cheaper too.
What’s increasing is car rentals, which are up 3%.
Hayley Berg from Hopper shares some tips: If you leave early and are flexible, you can save money.
“Most summer weekend trips take place from Thursday or Friday through Sunday, so if you can fly during the week, such as departing on a Monday or Tuesday, you can find some really cheap flights, often under $100,” Berg says. “Airfares to Europe have fallen by about 16 percent, so travelers who traveled last year will definitely see savings if they book this year.”
Here are some of her other tips:
– Book now
– Fix the price
– Fly on a weekday
– Book the first flight of the day
– Add interrupt/cancel protection
– Avoid peak weekends and holiday weeks
Consider the Fall “Off-Season”
What if you need to protect your trip?
“Travel insurance typically covers expenses related to things like medical expenses while you’re abroad, lost luggage, and buying new clothes and toiletries. It doesn’t always cover things like missing a connecting flight because your inbound flight is delayed. That’s why we recommend a more assistance-focused product, cancellation assistance. In the event of a delay, cancellation or missed connection, you can instantly rebook on any available airline, not just the one you booked with. Alternatively, you can get a refund and use that money to rent a car to get to your destination or stay in a hotel if necessary,” Berg said.
Interruption or cancellation protection costs extra, but is necessary.
Travel insurance is much more expensive but is a good choice for longer trips.
If you’re planning on traveling somewhere, keep in mind that prices will only increase between now and July and August, and try to avoid holiday weekends like the Fourth of July and Labor Day.
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