Summer travel is heating up despite crowded airports, popular destinations, and rising prices. In fact, 80% of Americans plan to travel as much or more than last summer, according to a new Harris Poll survey from T-Mobile.
It doesn’t matter where you’re going; here’s how to keep your wallet happy while making the most of your adventures.
• Plan Ahead: With international travel restrictions lifted, global bookings have surged more than 200% compared to last year, according to AAA. Some of the most popular destinations searched on Google Flights for this summer include London, Cancun, Paris, and Rome. If you plan to travel internationally and need a passport, estimated processing times are 11 to 13 weeks instead of the usual 8 to 10 due to increased applications and demand. So, start now!
• Be Flexible: If you can avoid traveling during the peak summer season, from mid-June to August, try to book in the “shoulder season,” which is the period just before and after. For this summer, travel experts recommend booking in September to cut costs.
• Stay Connected: Reliable wireless connection while traveling is no longer a luxury but an absolute necessity, with 95% of American travelers in the T-Mobile survey saying it’s essential for travel. Some cell plans—like T-Mobile’s new Go5G Plus—offer integrated travel benefits and coverage that kicks in as soon as you arrive. With free Wi-Fi on flights and free high-speed data in over 215 countries, the journey is seamless from start to finish, all included in the price of your monthly plan. To learn more about T-Mobile’s travel benefits and their new Go5G plans, visit t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans.
• Pack Smart: An estimated 2.2 million bags were lost or mishandled by U.S. airlines in 2022, up from 1.4 million in 2021, according to the 2022 Air Travel Consumer Report. If you’re worried about checking your luggage, put an Apple AirTag in your bag to know where it is at all times. Some bags, like T-Mobile’s limited edition Un-carrier On, come equipped with the necessary technology to ensure a smooth trip, including a power bank and smart tag device.
• Use Points: According to the Harris Poll survey from T-Mobile, nearly half (47%) of summer travelers used miles, points, or rewards to book their summer trips this year, and almost two-thirds of all travelers (66%) rely on discounts and promotions when booking travel accommodations. Certain credit cards offer points or miles for future travel when you sign up. If you’re a T-Mobile customer, you can save up to 40% on select hotels and car rentals by booking through T-Mobile TRAVEL from Priceline. Most bookings include free and flexible cancellations so you can plan with peace of mind.
Americans are eager to travel this summer, and with a little planning, nothing should stand in the way of a well-deserved R&R.
Source: Statepoint