While most of us enjoy the occasional surprise, no one wants unexpected costs to sneak up on them, especially when you’re on an adventure.
From tariffs to inflation, there are a lot of questions around how much things are going to cost, period, and that includes the world of travel.
Is uncertainty around costs actually holding back travelers this summer? And what do you need to know about possible price changes? We’re done the research and separated fact from fiction, so you can enjoy the season with a little less worry.
What’s Going on Now With Travel Costs?
The reality is, there’s still a lot of uncertainty around what will happen with prices in every sector, and that includes travel. Here’s what we do know: Most people aren’t worried specifically about travel costs, but about how the costs of everything else might impact what’s available for their travel budget.
Which Travel Costs Are (or Will Be) the Most Impacted?
Today, the most impacted travel areas are accommodations and air travel. That doesn’t mean all hotel costs are going to be astronomical, and it is still possible to find low-cost flights. However, it does mean both of those items will likely take more planning (see tips for both below).
How Can You Navigate Travel Costs?
Start by identifying what your travel priorities are. Think through your 4 Ws of travel:
- Where do you want to go?
- Who do you want to travel with?
- When do you want to go?
- Why do you want to travel?
Spend the most time on that last one. It’s key to figuring out which elements of your adventures are the most important. Once you’ve nailed those down, use them to inform the “how?” Then prepare for what you can, and stay informed.
Here’s how we’re navigating tour planning (and you can too!):
- Book in Advance: Costs will almost always be lower the further out you book. Get a jumpstart on price increases by planning ahead.
- Get a Group Together: There’s always strength in numbers, and that’s true in travel, too. More people allow tour operators to keep costs lower for everyone.
- Hit the Road … or Rails: With unpredictable air fares, bus, train, and/or car travel are easier to budget around.
- Explore the Spots (and Times) Less Traveled: Not only are destinations that are off the beaten path typically less expensive, they’re going to be less crowded. Plus, who doesn’t love being a trendsetter? And visiting outside of peak times/seasons can help you keep costs down.
- Be a Discount Detective: There’s almost always a coupon. Signing up for emails or texts from the travel outlets you know and love can help you stay in the loop for those saving opportunities. (Be on the lookout for unicorn-shaped discounts. 🦄)
Get Out & Explore More
These are uncertain times to be sure, but there are still new places to see and experiences to be had. With a little bit of planning (a tour operator can help with that!) and an adventurous spirit, we can all better navigate these travel challenges together.
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