Historically, fall has marked the end of summer’s high fares and the beginning of cheaper and smoother travel. But recent industry changes mean this fall may stray from its regular routine as carriers slash routes, cut capacity and raise fares. Travelocity looks at expectations for fall and winter including where to find the values as well as tactics for “defensive travel” - both are essential in the seasons ahead.
A Look at Fall
Travelocity’s data shows fall airfares $40 higher than last year for domestic and international tickets, averaging $342 for domestic fares (up 14 percent) and $749 for international fares (up 5 percent). With prices expected to continue to climb, savvy travelers are planning farther ahead than in years past. An early look shows booking 116 days prior to departure this year compared to 112 days in 2007.
“Given that the overall airfare is up 11 percent, and will likely increase around peak dates, travelers have to find good values to make up the difference,” Amy Ziff, Travelocity’s editor-at-large, said. “Buying packages and looking for hotel deals where the hotel cost can help offset the increased flight price is critical.”
A Look at Winter
An early glance at winter travel (defined as November thru February) shows that those who plan early are most likely to get the destination they want, when they want and at the best possible price for the season. Airlines have promised higher fares by year end and the winter outlook offers proof keeping pace with the fall price increase. For Holiday travelers this means even higher prices around the peak travel days.
Ways to Find Value
- Book as early as possible to be sure to lock in the best price.
- Buy a package to find the very best deals.
- Search flexible dates and consider similar, alternate destinations to get the best price.
- Look for all-inclusive hotels where your meals are included in the price of your vacation.
Airfares to several destinations have not increased as much as the average, and some are even lower than last year. For example:
- Barbados fares are down 0.8 percent year over year (YOY)
- Antigua and Barbuda fares are down 10 percent YOY
- Telluride and Bozeman are both down 2 percent YOY
- Orlando fares are up 5 percent YOY
- Dominican Republic fares are up 9 percent YOY
- Cancun; San Juan, PR; and Vail Eagle are all up 10 percent YOY
Learn the Art of Defensive Travel
Travelers need to shape up on their “defensive travel” tactics and know that travel can still be affordable with the right tools.
- Consistently check flights and times for changes prior to flying.
- Build flexibility into schedules so unforeseen changes don’t negatively affect plans.
- If possible, on a layover or non-direct flight, opt for stops in major hub airports so that there are more options should anything go wrong.
- Pack lightly and be aware of the new baggage policies for your airline.
- Bring the 800# of your airline, travel agent and hotel should you need it if your flight is delayed or cancelled.
“Based on the current climate, it’s more important than ever to be a savvy traveler and use all the tools available to make sure your travel plans aren’t ruined by a schedule change, missed connection or lost luggage,” Ziff said.
Top Booked Domestic Fall Destinations:
- Las Vegas
- Orlando
- South Florida
- New York City
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- Chicago
- Denver
- Washington, DC
- Phoenix
Top Booked International Fall Destinations:
- Cancun
- Cabo San Lucas
- Puerto Vallarta
- Aruba
- Rome
- London
- Dominican Republic
- Paris
- Bahamas
- Jamaica