Before the recession bug bit us, booking early was the secret to getting the best travel deals but times are changing; travelers can actually snag some last minute travel bargains from travel agents and tour operators in hard times.
Of course don't lose sight of the fact that even if travelers these days hesitate to spend money on trips because of job uncertainty and insecurity, travel peak seasons will always be a reality and that's when you shouldn't count on getting last minute travel bargain - we're referring to peak times like Christmas, Easter, spring break, summer vacation, Thanksgiving and New Year's. You may still, however, get last minute airline discount bargains if previously booked passengers decide to cancel their trips at the last minute.
Your best is to hunt for last minute travel bargains during off-peak times.
So we reiterate: it is still a good idea to book early during peak travel season, but that doesn't mean you will never get last-minute-bargains. For international destinations, by the way, "last minute" usually means four to six weeks before departure date.
Just a few pointers for you:
- If you're looking for last minute travel bargains and want to save money, the month of May gives you about three weeks to scavenge around for great deals to some European and Mediterranean destinations.
- June is said to be the best month for last-minute-deals to the Mediterranean. According to one travel writer, most airlines and tour companies have already established their booking schedules, and have fulfilled the demand for summer vacations. This means that you might be able to find discounted accommodation and package deals - at least at below brochure prices.
- June is also the time of year when international airlines review their summer bookings and introduce some promotional fares. If you're thinking of last travel bargains to North America, now's the time to ask around. Trips to Australia are also at low-season rates.
- July, August and September are considered peak times particularly for European destinations but if you speak to your travel agency, they just might be able to look into their database for last minute deals.
- The month of October is especially an attractive time for last minute deals as well, but don't wait too long because while prices may drop, so do temperatures.
Another way to save money on last minute travel bargains is to travel in groups. Many airlines have unsold seats for majority of the world's destinations and they usually decide to sell these off at attractive discounts.
Last Minute Travel Bargains
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