What to consider if you travel during the summer season

Motorists travel westbound along Interstate 40, Thursday, May 23, 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee. A record number of Americans are expected to hit the sidewalk during the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – Memorial Day weekend has unofficially kicked off the summer season, and many are thinking about traveling and planning trips. But with travel getting so expensive these days, it can seem difficult to plan a special getaway without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re traveling by plane or car, there are many things you can do to help you save big on your travels. According to AAA, the number one rule is to be flexible. This means considering multiple airports near your desired destination, choosing dates that offer greater savings, and avoiding travel during peak seasons and holiday weekends.

Experts advise, if possible, to shop for flights first and plan your itinerary around a beneficial destination. Indeed, flight prices can vary considerably depending on the destination and the time of year. By finding a good deal on a flight, you can then plan your trip to that destination.

Michael Ricco, a traveler from Springfield, told 22News that driving was another cheap alternative: “For Charleston, you know, I actually took a road trip with my friends. So we drove there instead of flying, so if you think about it, we save money that way, about $500.

According to the Better Business Bureau, it also offers the following tips to ensure you have an enjoyable vacation:

• Avoid extensive internet research. Typing phrases like “best deals” into your search engine can sometimes bring up websites that appear official but are designed solely to scam people.
• Be aware of travel scams. Be wary of phone calls or letters claiming a “free trip” or websites offering prices that seem too good to be true. It’s easy to come up with questionable deals like these, but most leave hopeful travelers in limbo – and out of money.
• Get travel details in writing. Before making a final payment, get all travel details in writing. This should include the total cost, restrictions, cancellation penalties, and airline and hotel names. Also review and keep a copy of the airline’s and hotel’s cancellation and refund policies, as well as the cancellation policies of the travel agency or booking site you are using.
• Consider travel insurance. Travel insurance covers things like trip cancellations or medical emergencies. Depending on the package purchased, there are different levels of coverage. Ask lots of questions and always read the fine print to see what is covered and what isn’t.
• Pay with a credit card. Credit card payments provide additional protection in case something goes wrong when booking the trip.

Booking your transportation with accredited and reputable companies, professionals and services can also help you save money and travel safely.