Are you dreaming of your next vacation but worried about the cost? Fear not, fellow travelers! We’ve compiled the top travel booking hacks for 2024 to help you plan smarter and save more on your trips this year. So, buckle up and get ready to take notes!

1. Timing is Everything: Choose the Cheapest Dates

Did you know that you can save as much as 15% on flights and 23% on hotel stays just by choosing the cheapest dates? For domestic flights, midweek departures can save an average of $45 per ticket. Sunday, being a popular day for travelers heading home from weekends away, is typically the most expensive day to depart. 

For international travelers, early to mid-week departures, specifically Tuesday or Wednesday, can result in the most savings. The best time to fly to South America is on Monday, when tickets can be 9% cheaper, and to Asia on Wednesday/Sunday, when tickets can be 6% cheaper.

Similarly, for accommodations, skipping the weekend stays can offer huge savings off pricey hotel rates. Weekend premiums can be even higher among top destinations in the US and abroad. Starting your stay mid-week can result in significant savings on nightly rates.

2. Off-Peak Travel: The Cheapest Months

Traveling in off-peak months like January/February and September/October can save you a significant amount on airfare and more. Prices for travel in January and February are typically the lowest of the year. On average, travelers saved 30% or $92 per ticket when traveling in the first two months of the year instead of in March and April, which are peak spring break travel months.

Similarly, shifting trips from peak summer months (June through August) to September or October can result in an average saving of 32% or $112 off airfare. Accommodation prices follow a similar pattern to airfare.

3. Monitor Prices Early & Book at the Right Time

Start monitoring prices for domestic flights at least 3-4 months before departure and book 1-2 months ahead of your departure date. For international trips, start monitoring the price of your trip 7-8 months before departure and book anywhere from 3-6 months before departure.

For hotels, book at least 1-2 months before your desired check-in date, especially for popular vacation destinations. Hotels often drop room rates in the last few days before check-in, so booking at the last minute can get you the lowest prices on rooms in big cities.

4. Staycation: A Local Getaway

Long weekends, especially in the first two months of the year, are often quiet in big cities. Plan a staycation in a big city near you to get some of the best rates of the entire year. Some properties offer discounts to locals and special rates to encourage community members to stay and spend locally.

5. Destination Dupes: The New Travel Trend

One of the main travel trends in 2024 is looking for less popular, but no less beautiful and interesting places to avoid the crowds and get better deals. This is especially useful if visiting a particular city or country is not a lifelong dream for which you are willing to shell out any money.

Remember, these tips are most effective for travelers with flexible schedules. So, get ready to pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable journey without breaking the bank.