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The Benefits of Traveling Off-Peak
The European Environment
Information and Observation Network (EIONET) defines
traveling off-peak as "traveling outside rush-hours
to avoid overcrowding in public means of transport."
This sounds all too simple and as we might expect -
easier said than done.
For both air and car travel, avoid the
crowds by traveling during the week, especially from
Tuesday through Thursday. An added bonus is that airfares
for travel Tuesday through Thursday are usually cheaper.
Mid-morning and late afternoon flights
tend to be less crowded, plus you can really avoid commute
traffic during this time. This site also offers the
load on late-night flights (also known as red-eye flights
for obvious reasons): these flights can help you avoid
traffic but it's only effective if you can sleep sitting
up-right on a plane!
And did you know that traveling off-peak
means traveling during holidays (not before or after)
when airfares are lower and there's less road traffic?
Some of the most affordable travel deals
of the year can be found in the fall. If you find super
off-peak dates that fall between major holidays, strike
while the iron is hot. Book immediately with your discount
travel broker. Never hesitate!
One great example of saving money by
traveling off-peak is flying to the Caribbean during
the North American winter months rather than during
summer. You might say what's the point in going to the
Caribbean in winter when you're going there to savor
the beaches? But the fact is, there is hardly such a
thing as winter in the Caribbean as it stays warm most
of the year. In fact, it's not a good idea to fly there
during the peak season (I.e., summer months) as this
is the period when the hurricanes usually come.
By traveling off-peak, not only will
you get cheaper flights and accommodations. You will
also gain a difference perspective on travel - especially
the added advantage of enjoying your dream destinations
without huddling with the masses of tourists during
holidays.
It also helps to subscribe to online
newsletters of discount air travel brokers such as Jestgo
or WesJet. By having yourself included in these companies'
mailing list, you can get your hands on off-peak travel
promotions faster than those who didn't. So you see,
it's not just the air miles!
Finally, book your flight early to secure
the most gains from traveling off-peak. One year's planning
can certainly help you reap the reward of the cheapest
airfares possible! On the other hand, booking last minute
can also have its rewards. If you're the kind who can
leave at a moment's notice, you can save a lot from
last-minute flights and accommodations. After all, airlines
and hotels would rather greatly discount their seats
and rooms than leave them empty!
1howto.com
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