With the unofficial arrival of summer this weekend, summer travel is heating up, despite rising prices and crowded airports and major tourist destinations. According to a new survey by Harris Poll, 80% of Americans plan to travel as much or more than last summer.
But with inflation on the rise, it’s important to keep an eye on spending. Here are some tips for traveling without neglecting your budget.
Plan ahead: With international travel restrictions lifted, global bookings have increased by more than 200% compared to last year, according to AAA. Some of the most searched destinations on Google Flights for this summer are London, Cancun, Paris, and Rome. If you plan to travel internationally, make the necessary reservations well in advance. Not only will you avoid paying more at the last minute, but you’ll also have a better chance of finding tickets for that must-see attraction.
If you need to renew your U.S. passport, the estimated processing time is 11 to 13 weeks, instead of the usual 8 to 10, due to an increase in applications and demand. So, if you haven’t done so yet, try to schedule your trip for the end of August.
Be flexible: If you can avoid traveling during the peak summer season, from mid-June to mid-August, you’ll have a better chance of getting better prices. Try to book during the so-called “shoulder season,” which is the period immediately before and after the high season. For this summer, travel experts recommend taking vacations in September to reduce costs.
Take care of your luggage: It is estimated that 2.2 million bags were lost or mishandled by U.S. airlines in 2022, an increase of 1.4 million from 2021, according to the 2022 Air Travel Consumer Report. If you need to check your luggage, put an Apple AirTag in it.
Use miles: According to the Harris Poll survey, nearly half (47%) of travelers used miles, points, or rewards to book their summer trips this year, and nearly two-thirds of all travelers (66%) rely on discounts and promotions when booking travel accommodations. Certain credit cards provide points or miles to use for travel, so don’t forget to check your accounts.
Source: State Point