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!
Add to Onlywire
About the author
James Yee is the webmaster of
http://www.yeearticles.com/. His Free Weekly Travel Deals is available at
www.yeearticles.com/travel/
German
Spanish
French
Italian
Portuguese
Dutch
Greek
Japanese
Korean
Russian
Chinese
