Smart ways to save on travel in 2016

Travel is always on the bucket list, especially when leading into a New Year. With many Australians looking to travel abroad in 2016, now is the perfect time to take advantage of Early Bird Savings and lock in travel arrangements for a lower price. For those of you who are looking to travel in 2016, we spoke to Trafalgar Australia’s Managing Director Matthew Cameron-Smith to gain some insight into how Australians can save on travel.

1. Plan ahead

Lock in as many variables of your holiday as soon as possible before heading overseas. Options like guided holidays can provide better value-for-money as the accommodation, transport, meals and entertainment are all included in the price giving travellers piece of mind over the cost of their holiday.

2. Take advantage of early payment discounts

In the Australian market destinations such as Europe, USA and Canada are the biggest sellers, therefore companies want to ensure they are offering travellers the most competitive prices. This is the perfect time to take advantage of strong market savings with recommendations to lock in European holidays 8-10 months in advance due to the popularity and increased prices of travelling in the European summer.

3. Look for savings when booking

The best way to land yourself a travel deal is by doing a little research to see what promotions and sales are on. For example, this week Trafalgar is having a 20% off flash sale , offering travellers massive savings across 100 of its bestselling trips across Europe, Britain, USA, Hawaii and Canada until Friday, 11 December 2015.

4. Consider value, as well as price

Price can be a major deciding factor when booking a holiday, however it’s important to compare what you really get for your money. Research the hotels, the location in which you are staying and what activities are included in the overall price.

5. Reap the benefits of bundling your flight and land-packages

Packaging your flight and land elements (e.g accommodation and activities) can be highly beneficial when it comes to saving money. Whether you’re booking a guided holiday, cruise or travelling as an independent traveller, many operators work with airlines to deliver cheaper airfares when packaged with a land deal.

6. Compare the market for last minute deals

If you’re on the hunt for a last minute deal, it’s important that you do your research to find out what deals are being offered in the marketplace. The majority of the time, travel companies such as Trafalgar, Contiki and Uniworld will list last minute savings on their websites for departures set to leave within 90 days. Savings of up to 15-30% off land packages can help curb the effect of last minute airfares that at times can become expensive when booking them closer to your departure date.

Top holidays to book in 2016

Now that we’ve run you through the top ways to save on your travel, here are some of the must-visit destinations for the adventurous traveller in the New Year:

Spain

As a crossroad between several civilisations, Spain is a cultural melting pot of historical cities and towns, thirteen of which have been declared World Heritage Sites. In addition, the uniquely pristine beaches along the stunning Mediterranean, mouth-watering cuisine in tapas portions, and the abundance of festivals and events make Spain a top contender.

Ireland

Ireland’s scenic diversity knows no bounds. For the lovers of history and literature, the gothic medieval castles will transport you back in time to the romance and magic of a medieval fairy-tale. There are countless opportunities for adventurous pursuits with Ireland’s rugged and scenic countryside allowing travellers to get up close and personal with nature by hiking through some of the best cliff walks in the world. Whether it is history, scenery, adventure or Guinness, Ireland is something to tick off every traveller’s bucket list in 2016.

USA

Australia’s enthusiasm for the United States, one of the world’s most diverse destinations, knows no bounds! In addition to an experience to suit everyone and anyone, 2016 brings to the table something special – a presidential election. Travellers with USA on their list can get swept up in the excitement while they journey across Route 66, experience the sights and sounds of the Deep South, party hard in Vegas, be bedazzled in LA and so much more.

Italy

Italy is a kaleidoscope of colours, fragrances and tastes. An ideal fusion between ancient and modern, the graceful city has an abundance of must-visit sites such as Michelangelo's magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel, the infamous Colosseum, the excavations of Pompeii and the stunning Isle of Capri. A foodie traveller’s heaven, Italy is also renowned for a number of gourmet delights that go well beyond gelato and pizza, not to mention the fantastic melting pot of modern art, fashion, architecture and culture that makes the historic country the ideal destination for creative travellers.

About Matthew 

With over 25 years of experience within the tourism industry, Matthew Cameron-Smith was appointed Managing Director for Trafalgar Australia in February 2011. Over the past four years, Matthew has played an integral part in Trafalgar’s transformation and brand evolution as the global guided holiday leader, while providing leadership and direction to Trafalgar’s Australia team.