Let’s face it, the British summer wasn’t that great this year, and it’s more than likely that it’s going to be the same next year. The winter months are setting in fast, it’s getting cold – what more reason do you need to start thinking about next year’s summer holiday?
Although it’s tempting to shop for holidays last-minute and grab a late deal, prices increase quite dramatically as the demand for that holiday or flight increases. Your dream holiday could end up being a nightmare on your purse strings!
Holiday dreams…
Unless you are able to travel outside of school holidays, have the flexibility of arranging time off work at short notice or don’t really mind where you go, then it’s best to book your holidays well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Book flights early
Most of the budget airlines release their new airfares in August or September for the upcoming year. This is when flights are at their very cheapest. The fares start to go up depending on how many get sold and you’ll find that flight prices rocket if you book a flight last-minute; prices are expensive because the airlines know that they are in-demand. November is still a great time to grab a cheap flight for next summer, so get in quick before the decent-priced seats have gone.
Make use of low-part deposit schemes
A lot of companies these days are offering promotions whereby you put a small amount of money down early, and then pay the rest when you get back from your holiday. With the economic downturn, this kind of offer can make it much easier to book and budget for a holiday. You can pay the deposit now, then start saving for the rest of your holiday costs later. Result!
An example of this type of promotion is the £25 per person deposit scheme that Directline Holidays have on offer. Essentially you pay for your holiday in three stages, giving you more time to save up for it. These offers are available on all holidays.
So don’t cut yourself short and miss out on a break next year just because you don’t have the pennies to pay for it now. By booking early and making use of such schemes, you’ll get the holiday cheaper because you booked up way in advance.
Same goes for hotels
Although it’s not as hard to find a last minute deal on a hotel, there are benefits of booking early if you want a room with a sea view, a family room, or something a bit better than basic accommodation. Hotels usually offer some good deals early on in the season. Accommodation prices go up in destinations that are in demand over the peak summer months. This applies to UK accommodation too, so book early if you’re looking for an airport hotel to stay in before your flight.
Book airport parking early
The same goes for airport parking when it comes down to booking up early. Prices will go up, similarly to that of flights, due to the demand. Make sure you organise airport parking when you book your holiday, to save extra cost. Most airports have different parking rates. The online pre-booking rate is usually the cheapest, whereas if you just turn up without a reservation the price will rocket.
Get cheap airport parking when you book in advance
There is a lot more choice available if you book early. You can also compare all the parking options the airport has on offer, such as Park and Ride services (cheapest option) or Meet and Greet services which can only be booked in advance.
To guarantee your space, especially busy times like during school holidays, it’s best to book early because car parks will fill up very quickly. To avoid any disruption on the day of your flight, booking in advance means you will be given all information you need, such as full directions to your parking spot. You’ll know exactly where you are going which means one less thing to worry about before you go on holiday.
