Travel during holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s is going to be higher than at other times of the year. After 26 years in this industry, I have seen many trends come and go. It used to be that any unsold cabins on a river or ocean cruise within 90 days of travel would be offered at a large discount. If already booked, you may or may not be offered something if the prices have dropped. Fast forward to what is going on now.
Cruise lines have now stated they are not lowering prices 90 days out or less. If booking close in (90 days up to 2 weeks prior to traveling), companies are using smart marketing to make it sound like a good “deal”. If you really want to go at the last minute, you just need to decide if this price/amenity package is the right price for you and your family. Booking travel last minute means reduced availability and, in most cases, higher prices.
When can you get the best pricing for holiday travel or travel of any kind?
The best pricing is a year to a year and a half out. Some agencies, such as mine, have special rates when itineraries first come out. However, once those prices are gone, we cannot get them back. If you are booking six months out, there may be some new prices that are still good, but not as good as when the itinerary hit the market. We as agents have access to some pricing that the public never sees.
Another idea is to plan ahead with your travel agent and give the gift of travel. This way you are getting a better price, good availability and it is something to look forward to in the new year.
Try to plan in advance if you want to travel during holidays, summers or spring break. Find a travel agent/agency that you can give your Wish List to so they can be your eyes and ears.
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