Summer 2024 travel boom expected: Start planning now with these money-saving tips

WASHINGTON (7News) — If you’re thinking about a summer vacation, you better hurry.

The best time to book your trip is two to three months in advance, according to Hopper. And the summer of 2024 is predicted to break travel records.

“People are traveling with a vengeance ever since the pandemic ended. The last few months the phones have been ringing off the hook. And everybody wants to travel,” said Gwendolyn Kinlaw, an Expedia vacation consultant.

From a family road trip to an all-inclusive resort to a cruise, or a bucket list international destination, there is something for everyone at every price point.

“Very popular are the Caribbean islands, Mexico. Alaska is another top one. Many are looking to book for Hawaii as well,” Kinlaw said.

But if you’re looking for a deal, try going when it’s not so crowded.

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“It’s more expensive to travel in the summer. I would say the months of July and August are very much more expensive,” Kinlaw added.

The average summer airfare is $325 for a domestic trip and $1,000. for international flights, according to Hopper.

Book your flight two to three months in advance for a U.S. trip, or five to six months in advance for an overseas flight.

Right now some cruise lines are offering deals.

”A lot of the companies are offering buy one get one free. They’re offering guests three and four, travel for free. Some of them are offering the kids for free, and 60% off the first and second passenger,” Kinlaw said.

But you might find better deals if you hold off until mid to late August when the kids are back in school.

Experts advise booking refundable rates on airfare and hotels, being flexible with your dates, and choosing off-peak times.

Setting a fare alert to make sure you’re getting the best deal, and monitoring flash deals on resorts, hotels and airfare are also good ideas.

You can also use credit card points and miles to get great deals.

Lastly, if you find a better deal online, ask your provider if they can match that rate.