Traditionally, summer was seen as the season to get all your travelling in, but recent trends show that winter travel is getting more and more popular. WalletHub’s 2019 Winter Travel Survey found that 2 out of 3 Americans plan to travel during the winter season, up 4% from last year. In that same survey, 30% indicated that they planned to spend more on winter travel in 2019 than in 2018. While winter travel is getting trendier, concerns about expensive winter resorts and holiday pricing are still prevalent. However, budget travellers need not fear, as there are tons of ways to get the most value for money out of your winter holiday. Here are a few tips for doing just that.
Skip the Hotel
If you’re dreading the price increases in hotels over the holiday season, the recent boom in the sharing economy luckily provides a cheaper alternative. German hotel reservation site HRS recently released data comparing Airbnb prices with hotel room prices in eight of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. They found that Airbnbs were cheaper on the average, which bodes well for travellers on a budget. While Airbnbs might have their own individual quirks, they’re easier on your wallet and allow for more flexibility in your reservation.
Pick Your Dates Carefully
Winter holidays can get pretty expensive thanks to the number of international holidays during the season, with Christmas and New Year’s being the most popular. However, according to travel expert Ian Crawford, picking the right date for your flights in and out may save you a lot of money. Travellers are well aware that prices are on the rise in the weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year’s. However, Crawford says that travelling after New Year’s Day can actually net you big savings, as prices drop after New Year’s Eve.
Research Your Airline
Convenience is a big factor in deciding what flight to take, but it can also come with a hefty price tag. Aviation JobNet recommends looking at a variety of different factors before making your decision. Comparing prices, consumer ratings, whether you’re taking a direct flight or layover, luggage surcharges, frequent flyer perks, and taking into account previous experiences with the airlines are all part and parcel of finding the best and most convenient deal. While the cheapest ticket may be tempting, it can come with a host of other disadvantages, so doing your research is essential.
Go Off the Beaten Path
Being a little more flexible with your destinations is one of the key elements in getting the best value for money for your winter holidays. While others may flock to popular ski resorts, those aren’t the only places you can have fun during the cold season. Smarter Travel has a list of affordable winter vacation sites that you might want to take a look at. Looking out for lists like these can actually open your mind to other holiday options, and can test your creativity as a traveller by motivating you to unearth hidden gems and fun local secrets.
