It’s a fact: the more flexible you are about not only the dates you go on holiday, but also the destination, the better deals you’re likely find. Read on to find out the benefits of keeping an open mind about not only when you travel – but where you jet off to this summer…
- Be flexible about when you go
If you have the luxury of being flexible with dates, you can make some serious savings.
Take a holiday when others can’t, such as travelling before school holidays in May and June to family destinations like Florida, and you’ll get a far better price. October is another great month as many destinations are still warm, but prices are dramatically reduced. If you do have to book in the summer holidays though, try and hold off until the very end of August and beginning of September.
It’s not all about the month, though. The more flexible you can be on the time and date of your departure, the more likely you are to snap up a bargain. For example, demand will not be as high mid-week at an antisocial time as it will be at the weekend or out-of-work hours. Look at holidays of different durations too, as sometimes two-week breaks offer excellent value for money compared to seven-night trips.
And finally, dragging yourself out of bed at the crack of dawn to catch a 4am flight might seem unspeakable, but it could save you a fortune in the long run. Early morning and overnight fares are generally cheaper, and travelling at off-peak times will mean you get more for your money in your chosen destination.
- Be flexible about where you go
As travellers looking for a late deal (for which lists like this or this can be hugely helpful), opening up your mind to new destinations also opens you up to some phenomenal savings. But many travellers have their heart set on a certain type of holiday – which means they’re likely to miss out on the best late deals out there.
The key to getting a great deal, while also meeting your holiday wish-list, could be to check out less well-known, up-and-coming destinations. For example, if you have your heart set on a beach break but can only find city destinations, find a late deal combining both, like Dubrovnik.
Or if you’d rather go for a city break, why not head for a cheap beach holiday on Costa del Sol, and use it as a base for exploring places like Granada, Seville and Cordoba?
And don’t let your prejudices about a place prevent you from discovering a new destination at a snip of the price. The economic problems in Cyprus, for example, have hit bookings recently, meaning availability could be better than usual.
Meanwhile, destinations such as Egypt and Tunisia, where there has been political instability, are likely to have some great late bargains – just make sure you check the FCO travel advice before you book.
And finally… if you’re flexible on both:
Of course, if you’re able to be flexible on both when you travel and where you jet off to, you can take advantage of the very best deals and promotions out there. If this is you, make sure you stay updated with news and email subscriptions from your favourite companies – and get ready to pounce when there’s a good deal!
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