Optimal Moment to Secure Your Summer Vacation Reservations
Summer vacations are a popular choice for many Americans, with nearly half planning trips requiring airline tickets or overnight lodging during Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day[1]. However, the increased demand can lead to higher prices and crowded destinations. To ensure you get the best deals and secure your preferred travel dates, here are some expert tips on when to book.
Katie Kubitskey, a Kentucky-based travel agent and the owner of My World Travel, shares her insights based on years of planning trips for thousands of clients who have visited over 60 countries[2]. According to Kubitskey, the best time to book international flights is at least six months in advance, ideally nine to twelve months for a comfortable planning period[1]. This early booking allows you to secure seats and avoid paying inflated prices close to your travel date.
For domestic travel, flights can be booked around three to four months out, but beginning your search six to nine months before your trip will give you the best availability[1]. When monitoring flight prices, consider being flexible with your travel dates, testing out different departure and return days to see if significant cost savings can be made. Additionally, sign up for services like Going.com or use Google Flights' 'Explore' feature to discover budget-friendly options[1].
When it comes to lodging, Kubitskey recommends starting to look at hotels around the same time you're booking flights[1]. For larger families or groups traveling together, making early reservations ensures that appropriate room configurations and special accommodations will be available. Popular national parks and state campgrounds often have reservations open 3 to 6 months in advance, so plan accordingly[1].
Summer travel plans also involve logistics such as car rentals and theme park tickets. By booking car rentals roughly a week before your trip, you can potentially find the best deals while avoiding rental company shortages[3]. Theme park tickets should be purchased as soon as travel dates are confirmed, especially for popular destinations that sometimes offer reservations up to a year in advance[1].
As you plan your summer vacation, remember that June and July can be crowded months at popular attractions, especially considering U.S. school systems' break schedules. If flexibility permits, traveling earlier or later in the summer season can help you avoid the crowd and secure better prices[1].
Lastly, be mindful of seasonal weather conditions. For example, a summer trip to Everglades National Park may bring higher insect activity, humidity, or even the potential for hurricane season[1]. Protect your investment by considering travel insurance, an option that Kubitskey recommends for its potential cost savings and peace of mind during uncertain travel scenarios[1].
Reference(s):[1] Clements, E. (2023, May 3). When to book summer travel 2023: Flight, hotel, and logistics tips. Retrieved from https://www.foxbusiness.com/travel/summer-travel-booking-tips[2] Travel Pulse. (n.d.). Katie Kubitskey. Retrieved from https://www.travelpulse.com/profiles/Katie-Kubitsky/[3] NerdWallet. (2023, May 4). Car rental tips: How to save money on your summer rental. Retrieved from https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/travel/car-rental-tips/[4] Inflight. (2023, May 1). Best time to buy airline tickets: Expert advice. Retrieved from https://tripboba.com/articles/best-time-to-book-flight-tickets-5235.html
- To explore some summer travel ideas, you might want to check out the 'Summer Travel Ideas' section in Southern Living magazine.
- If you're planning a summer camping trip, make sure to book your spot at popular national parks or state campgrounds at least three to six months in advance.
- When booking international flights, it's definitely recommended to do so at least six months ahead of time to secure your preferred dates and avoid paying inflated prices.
- To save on car rentals during your summer vacation, consider booking about a week before your trip, but check out services like IATA for the best deals and availability.
