ST. LOUIS — The holidays are quickly approaching and experts predict it will be the busiest travel season since 2019. But thanks to inflation, many travelers may be forced to rethink their holiday plans.
A new survey from Bankrate found most travelers are looking for ways to save on their trip. Some people may even consider traveling by car instead of a plane, any small adjustment that can help families make ends meet.
Ted Rossman is a senior industry analyst with Bankrate.
"Seventy-seven percent of holiday travelers are making adjustments," Rossman said. "They don't want to skip the trip entirely. They're willing to drive instead of fly, they're willing to stay in cheaper accommodations or pick cheaper activities."
If you're planning to fly to visit family, right now is the time to get a bargain. Domestic flights are usually cheapest six to eight weeks before departure, so if you haven't booked that flight for Thanksgiving or Christmas, get a move on. For international flights, you should plan even further out if possible. Rossman says you may also find deals if you have flexible travel days.
"Could you go early or could you stay later if you're willing to fly the morning of Thanksgiving? That actually might be a big cost savings opportunity and hopefully you still get there in time for the family dinner," said Rossman.
Another concern for travelers are flight delays and cancellations. After Southwest Airlines canceled more than 16,000 flights at Lambert St. Louis International Airport and airports across the country last holiday season, experts suggest booking with a credit card that has strong travel insurance protection.
"A lot of cards will include these at no added cost and they help with everything from damaged rental cars to canceled or delayed flights lost or delayed luggage," Rossman added.
Airlines are not legally obligated to compensate you, but most credit cards will. So always ask your credit card company to reimburse for the hotel, the rental car and maybe even meals and essentials if you get stranded.