According to Insider, aviation and hotel experts believe that the ideal time to find the best accommodation and flight bookings is in September and October. In addition, they also share ways to have an easier trip and reveal tips to help optimize costs when traveling in winter, especially experience with international flights.
1. Tuesday is the best day to book tickets, avoid flying on weekends
Most airlines launch their sales on Monday evenings, so you have the best chance of getting the best price on Tuesday morning, says Laura Lindsay, global travel expert at Skyscanner. Travelers can save 15-25% if they book on Tuesday.
Flights departing midweek are generally cheaper than flights departing on Mondays, Fridays and weekends.
Set up price alerts to proactively monitor your desired route, adds Laura Lindsay. Fares will fluctuate from route to route. Additionally, airlines may add flights on crowded routes, which will affect prices.
2. Arrive at the airport early if you need to check in luggage
If you have checked luggage, arrive early to check it in and ensure it is labeled. For domestic flights, you should arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure and 3-4 hours for international flights.
Experts also recommend packing a few essentials in your carry-on luggage such as toiletries and a change of clothes in case your checked luggage is lost.
You should also put a small tracking device like AirTag in your checked luggage. "This way, users can locate their luggage if it goes missing and is extra helpful when contacting the airline," says Laura Lindsay.
3. If your flight is canceled or delayed, contact the airline as soon as possible to rebook your ticket.
The CEO of Icelandic low-cost airline PLAY, Birgir Jónsson, advises that the best move when you learn of a flight cancellation or delay is to contact the airline as soon as possible. You should prioritize rebooking immediately so you don't miss out on the opportunity to choose the first available alternative flight. Passengers can do this at the airport service desk or contact the call center, email...
"If your flight is canceled, have an alternative date and time ready to provide to customer service. They will help you move to another flight that fits your schedule," says Jónsson.
If your flight is cancelled, you can save time by using the airline's app to rebook.
If you decide not to travel because your flight is canceled, many airlines will refund all or part of the cost of your ticket.
Skyscanner's Laura Lindsay recommends taking out travel insurance as it can cover travel disruptions such as cancellations, interruptions and delays, lost or damaged luggage, and sometimes also covers travel medical expenses, emergency transport and damaged rental cars.
4. If your luggage is lost, talk to airline staff before leaving the airport.
Typically, if your luggage is lost, many major airlines will arrange transportation to your accommodation once it is found.
“You should confirm whether there are any fees or taxes associated with this service, and if so try to get the airline to agree to cover them,” adds Lindsay.
If one of your bags is lost at the airport, for insurance purposes, ask the airline to sign a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) form. This is the airline's form confirming that the bag is lost or delayed.
Passengers should keep a signed copy of the declaration, along with their tickets, baggage tags, receipts and other supporting documentation. “This is a first step in preparing you for any future complaints you may have with your airline,” Lindsay said.
5. If your luggage is lost while traveling internationally, cite the Montreal Convention
Airlines typically charge a fee for lost luggage. United Airlines, for example, offers $1,500 if your bag is lost for more than five days. But even with these policies, getting compensation can be a long and inconvenient process.
“Some airlines try to find a way to get out of it completely, even though there are government and international laws about what you’re asking for,” says Laura Lindsay.
Typically, if your luggage is lost, many major airlines will arrange transportation to your accommodation once it is found.
In the event that the airline fails to provide a suitable solution, the piece of legislation that will best protect you is the Montreal Convention – which provides protection to air passengers for lost or damaged baggage on international flights, as well as compensation for death or injury. The treaty has been signed by more than 100 countries worldwide.
The amount you're entitled to will vary and it's important to note that the treaty only applies to flights taking off and landing between different countries - not domestic flights.
6. Book directly with the hotel for a good price
The best way to save is to call or book directly on the hotel's website, says Sam Tucker, regional director of sales and marketing at the Adolphus Hotel in Dallas, Texas, and the Emeline Hotel in Charleston, South Carolina.
“Many hotels practice rate parity, meaning you’ll find similar deals on their website as you would on a third-party site like Expedia or Booking.com,” he says. “When you book direct, cancellation terms are often more flexible as well.”
Book directly with the hotel for a good price.
Additionally, when contacting the hotel directly, you should also ask about loyalty programs or promotions and how to participate.
Jennifer Strum, marketing director of Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort in Florida (USA), also agrees that the best option to get competitive prices is to book directly with the hotel.
“Sign up for regular email newsletters and follow the social media pages of the hotels you are interested in for special offers,” she says.
7. Ask the hotel staff about room upgrades
"Ask the front desk if they'd be willing to upgrade your room so you can try it out. This way, you'll have a better experience and be more likely to book another time," says Sam Tucker.
Additionally, based on availability or off-peak dates, you may be able to negotiate an upgrade when booking multiple nights. Share your vacation style, such as romantic, family, or anniversary, and see which room type best suits your individual needs.
If you are not satisfied with your check-in, do not hesitate to contact the person in charge, share your concerns for the best support.
8. Plan early and be prepared for situations
It is important to be realistic when planning your travel and you need to know that air travel itineraries can change at the last minute.
Plan early and be prepared for situations
Do everything you can to ensure a smooth vacation by booking flights early and purchasing insurance. Be prepared for any potential complications at the airport. And whatever you do, don't forget your important travel documents.
