The calendar may say “January”, but this is the time of year when many folks are definitely thinking “spring” – specifically spring break travel. Whether you’re sick of cold, snow, and ice and are dreaming of warm and sunny beaches, or you just want to get away for a few days to relax and unwind, you’ll want to keep these tips in mind as you plan your spring (or late winter!) vacation.
Book Early – You’ve heard the saying “the early bird gets the worm” and it totally applies to travel, especially during busy times of the year (which spring break is). The earlier you book, the more options you’ll have, and will likely find better prices too. I know the common perception is that there are tons of last-minute deals out there, but the truth is that they are actually few and far between – especially now as so many are traveling to make up for the past two year. If you want to travel in the next few months and haven’t booked something yet, contact your travel agent immediately. And then think ahead to *next* spring too, so that you can be that early bird getting the best price.
Be Wary of Those “Great Deals” Online – It may be tempting to book that resort in Jamaica that – online – looks like it has a fabulous view – but does it really? Will you be getting all meals and drinks included – or will you have to pay extra? And is the resort clean, updated, and does it have great service? It’s hard to tell online, but you know how you can make sure that you are getting what you expect when you book? Use a travel agent with experience who will make sure that you will have a fabulous – not disappointing vacation. Because you know how your mother always said “if it seems too good to be true…”
Travel Off Peak Days and Times – Want to get the best price for your airfare? Consider traveling during the days and times that most *don’t* travel – early mornings or late night flights are typically lower in cost than midday flights. And you’ll often find that midweek prices are lower than Friday night, Saturday morning, or Sunday evening, when many vacationers are starting or ending their trips.
Buy Travel Insurance – Protecting your vacation investment with travel insurance has always been important, but it’s even more important now with the pandemic continuing to upend vacationers’ plans. While you hope you won’t need it, if something happens that disrupts your trip – whether it’s COVID, or unexpected flight delays/cancellations, or the arrival of a hurricane (or blizzard) – I promise that you will be very happy you purchased travel insurance!
Book Popular Experiences Before You Leave – Hoping to have a special candlelight dinner at your resort, or take a fun excursion or tour on your vacation? Don’t assume that you can take care of booking everything when you get there. Many special experiences have limited space available, and when they are full, they are full. Not everything can be booked before your trip, but if it can, it’s a good idea to do so. Your travel agent can help you with this.
Pack Smart but Don’t Overpack – Ahh the joys of packing. You want to have everything you’ll need, but not more than you’ll need. Because with hefty bag fees on many airlines, who wants to pay for luggage filled with things you won’t need or wear? But at the same time – you don’t want to arrive and realize that the weather is NOT what you expected and now you have to go buy clothes (at expensive resort prices). Packing well is a fine line to be sure but an important one. Plan for outfits that you can mix and match, with coordinating colors making it easier to do so. And be sure to look at the weather before you pack and don’t assume what it will be. Many tourists to Florida for example have been shocked to find out that it can get into the 30s at night sometimes!
Know the COVID Requirements for Your Destination – Travel is complicated right now, and the pandemic requirements are constantly changing. Make sure you know if your destination requires vaccinations (and whether that means boosters as well), or testing – and especially pay attention to the type of testing that is needed. Likewise familiarize yourself with any masking requirements and be prepared for them – even in the U.S. the policies where you are going may very well be different from where you live. Your travel agent can help you navigate through all of this.
Happy travels!
Learn how the FREE services of a travel agent can make planning your vacation simple and STRESS FREE!
