With access to last minute travel deals online, find the cheapest getaway abroad has become a national sport.
But since many of us try the same tactics to understand these good deals for the holidaysit's getting harder and harder to get a real flight.
Today, Jason Higgs, senior deals strategist at deal-hunting site Bountii, gave his best tips for getting through it without spending a fortune.
He said: “Spontaneous travel doesn’t mean compromising on quality or blowing your budget.
“With the right strategies, like taking advantage of bargain websites and being flexible with your plans, you can discover incredible deals and enjoy the thrill of unexpected travel. »
You can read his five tips in his recap below.
1. Use Transaction Websites
Jason says taking advantage of websites dedicated to travel deals, such as Going, Skyscanner and LastMinute.com, can significantly reduce costs.
These platforms aggregate deals, helping you find the best prices across various airlines, hotels and packages.
By using these deal websites, you can save 20 to 50 percent on your travel costs, making spontaneous trips more affordable and accessible.
2. Follow the 24-hour flight rule
Checking flight prices 24 hours before your scheduled departure can save you a lot of money.
Airlines often drop prices to fill empty seats at the last minute, Jason says.
This method can save you up to 50% on plane tickets, especially on international flights, making it a valuable strategy for those looking to travel on a budget.
3. Book one-way flights
Jason says that instead of booking round-trip tickets, consider purchasing one-way flights from different airlines.
This approach allows you to mix airlines and take advantage of the best available fares for each leg of your trip.
Booking one-way flights can result in savings of up to 30%, providing more flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
4. Be flexible with dates and destinations
Flexibility is key when planning a last-minute trip, says Jason.
Being willing to travel a day earlier or later, or choose a different destination, can lead to substantial savings. This flexibility can save you up to 35% on airfare, and similar savings can apply to accommodation costs.
5. Sign up for airline and hotel newsletters
It can be annoying, but Jason says subscribing to airline and hotel chain newsletters can provide exclusive last-minute deals and discounts.
Newsletter subscribers often enjoy savings of 20-40% on flights and hotel stays, making it an attractive strategy for those looking to save on spontaneous trips.