Summer is the time when most families go on vacation. However, besides families traveling, everyone else is trying to escape to a beach or warmer sun destinations. For this reason, many popular destinations peak during the peak season, which usually makes flights and accommodations more expensive due to demand. While there are certainly tips and hacks you can follow to score the best deals, there are also some common mistakes people often make when planning. We have listed them here.
Fear of complete packages
Not everyone immediately thinks of an all-inclusive holiday. However, if you research the details of a package and check if it will benefit your lifestyle, a travel package can be ideal. After all, you no longer have to buy food and drink.
Not being flexible
Sometimes flexibility just isn't possible, but not being flexible costs you money. If you're lucky enough to have the flexibility to travel any day of the week, it's best to book a trip on a weekday. Then it is cheaper because fewer people fly. Most people travel on weekends.
Not budgeting properly
Travel offers and discounts are great, of course, but you should still allow some wiggle room in your budget. Sometimes it costs more than you expect, or you want to spend a little more once you get to your destination – and why not? It's your vacation. When it comes down to it, you just don't want to run out of money, so plan for unexpected expenses.
Do not check the exchange rates
Many people spend the summer outside of Europe, where the summer months give them plenty of time for longer vacations. Before you go, research the exchange rates. See where it is cheaper to exchange money, here or at the destination. Also pay attention to the costs if you want to pin at the destination.
Do not clear browser cookies when searching for a trip
Did you refresh your search while searching for a trip and found that prices were going up? This is usually due to your browser's cookie history. Companies use these cookies to track your searches and create dynamic pricing, which means that the trip may become more expensive if you keep looking for the same trip. To avoid falling victim to the nefarious tactics of the travel companies, clear your browser cookies every time you perform a search or just enable private browsing.
Not packing properly
There are a few mistakes you can make when packing for a vacation. The two biggest mistakes:what to pack and how. Be mindful of what you'll be doing on your summer vacation and adjust what you pack accordingly – if you're lounging by the beach, grab flip-flops; if you are going to go out, take smart clothes and high heels. Once you know what to pack, make the most of your luggage space by rolling your clothes to fit into the slots of your suitcase, and pack each shoe separately.
Don't look around
This applies to airline tickets and hotel and car rental accommodations. Compare your options before choosing one and don't forget to ask about discounts. Use websites that compare prices for you. If you've scoured the internet for the best prices, you could also try booking directly through the company's website or calling to see if the price is cheaper than what you've found.
Don't talk to a travel agent
If you find that all the prices are out of your budget, don't panic. Affordable rates may be available; you just can't see them. Travel agents often have access to information that is not available to the public, and their job is to help you plan your dream summer vacation.
Do not use alternative airports
Flying from one airport can be more expensive than another. It may be wise to compare the costs at multiple airports. Sometimes you can find great deals by being flexible – leaving from one airport and returning to another.
Don't use travel apps
Don't forget to use travel apps when planning your trip. There is an app for every need you have, and of course there are plenty that try to make travel easier for consumers. This way you can easily find the cheapest flights.
