Big Hints on the Best Time to Buy
By Amy Ziff, Editor-at-Large
June 23, 2004
People are always asking me, "When is the best time to buy?" Well people, your bargain strategy can begin with this article. I'm about to share some of my patented tricks on how, when, and where to get a great deal.
First of all, while the best bargains are usually found in the off season, the most valued bargain is often on the cusp of the season, which we in the business call "shoulder" season. The downside to shoulder season is that, if the weather doesn't cooperate, your bargain can go bust in a hurry. For example, that cheap trip to Nevis during hurricane season doesn't seem like such a bargain when a hurricane (surprise!) keeps your plane on the tarmac. Obviously, a little luck helps, but so does a certain travel finesse and know-how.
Here are some clues to finding more deals:
- January is a great time to rent a car. A road trip could be just the thing to beat the post-holiday blues. Too mundane? You could also take advantage of cheap fares to Europe, which tend to be very low after the holidays. Did you know Paris has citywide sales twice a year? They do, in January and June, so it may be the right time to splurge on a shopping spree with all the money you'll save by visiting in winter.
- Shoulder season is great for the Caribbean, ski destinations, and crowded summer spots like Nantucket, Martha's Vineyard, and Cape Cod. Since these places share a distinct "high season," going just before or after yields the best rates, often with decent conditions--not to mention smaller crowds. But remember, rates are lower for a reason--you are rolling the dice when it comes to the weather, so you have to hope for the best. (Insurance can be a particularly prudent option if you're looking at hurricane season.)
- Make seasonality work for you. For example, if you're heading to Australia, their seasons are the opposite of ours. In March, you can look for deals to Aussie land. Reykjavik tends to be less expensive in winter, but then again, there is less daylight. Costa Rica in rainy season may be seem like a great deal, but not if you want to trek through the ruins in sunlight. So, beware of the deal that's not.
- As you know, Thanksgiving is perhaps the busiest time of year when it comes to travel. This year, maybe you should stay home for the holiday, then take advantage of the bargain travel that is always available in the two week period immediately following the Thanksgiving rush. You'll see better rates, availability, and fewer crowds at the airports and resorts around the country. Try going to an amusement park at the beginning of December, if you were thinking about a trip to one this year.
- Sometimes, of course, you’re going to be traveling at the same time as everybody else. That’s OK, just make sure if you are renting a car that you reserve the kind of vehicle you want as much as two to three months ahead. It's not all about cost, but rather, making sure there is a vehicle for you when you need it. Car rental operations have limited supplies. Remember that vans and convertibles are at a premium and that you must reserve special options like GPS or infant seats in advance too.
- As always, it pays to plan ahead. In the fall, early birds are likely to spot ski vacation incentive deals, as well as some for winter cruises or trips to Mexico. You can buy any time of year and save. Remember, buying in a bundle can save you a bundle, so look for package deals. Feeling spontaneous? Last-minute deals can save over 50 percent!
Whenever you book, remember there are so many things that go into finding a deal that the savvy traveler doesn't just rely on one single rule, but has a sense of what makes for a good value and snatches it up when it's served.
And now that you know my ABCs on saving, have fun putting them to use! See you at the airport.
For more travel tips and advice, check out Amy Ziff's blog, The Window Seat, or her monthly column, Travel Trends & Advice from A to Z. To suggest a topic for a future column or to tell about a travel experience of your own, please email Amy Ziff at ask.amy@travelocity.com.
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