WASHINGTON (7News) – Travel looks strong this holiday season.
According to a new Bankrate survey, 48% of adults are expected to take at least one overnight trip this holiday season. It is from 43% a year ago, and is in accordance with a trend of the year.
So far this year, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has handled 13% more air travelers than the same period last year.
“Travel is one of those things that even if it’s expensive, people are willing to splurge. YOLO, right? A lot of people say, you only live once, we want to take the trip,” said Ted Rossman, Bankrate Senior Industry . Analyst.
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The Bankrate study shows that 77% of people are cutting back on other areas to afford travel. Drive instead of flying, choosing the cheapest accommodations and activities, and choosing a destination based on the price of the air.
“That’s where I think being flexible can help. You can kind of zig when others zag a little bit,” explained Rossman. “Take Thanksgiving, for example. So many people fly on Wednesday and Sunday. Can you go a little earlier? Could you stay a little later? Actually, flying on the holiday itself is often a real deal.”
As for travel disruptions, Rossman says they still happen, but they don’t deter travelers.
“So the cost is the biggest and some kind of logistical problem was the second biggest concern, delays, cancellations. Unfortunately, the airline industry is still struggling with these operational problems. It is a little better than last year, but this is still the second worst year for delays since 2014,” Rossman said.
Your best advice is to book a flight for the holidays as soon as possible. Seventy days before the trip is the best time to book. Prices only go up after that.
As for travel insurance, you may not need it. Credit cards often cover travel interruptions, such as trip cancellation, overnight stays and meals.
