According to the latest Consumer Price Index report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, airline ticket prices are up an astounding 26% compared to the same month a year ago.
If there's a silver lining to the cloud cast over everyone's otherwise-sunny vacation plans, it's that prices do appear to be stabilizing, albeit at higher levels than even before the pandemic.
But don't panic. For those looking to trade the office for a tropical beach, there are plenty of ways to make your travel dollars stretch further than you ever thought possible with a few simple hacks.
According to Expedia, traveling in early March before spring break or in the “shoulder season” between late April and mid-May before summer vacations ramp up will allow you to save hundreds on airfare and accommodations.
While many vacationers plan their trips months in advance, real-world data shows that the best time to book your reservation is about 30 days before traveling.
If you're a frequent traveler, hotel and airline loyalty programs offer the ability to travel for free or almost free once you've accumulated the points.
If you are traveling with your family or a group of people, renting out an entire house or apartment can make more sense financially compared to booking multiple hotel rooms.
Not only can you avoid the cost of air travel, but a driving trip also allows you to get creative in your planning and explore places you may not have considered before.