As Black Friday promotions kick off, numerous discounted holiday packages are up for grabs. Amid the rush to secure these deals, a travel expert is warning against a common mistake.
Starting today, the internet is flooded with enticing offers during the annual Black Friday event, with discounts available not only on the day but also leading up to and following it. Among the most alluring deals are those related to upcoming vacations, be it a tropical escape for the early part of the next year or a spontaneous trip to explore a picturesque European Christmas market.
Numerous airlines, travel booking platforms, and hotels are offering significant discounts and deals during Black Friday. However, a caution from travel expert Chris Harrington, the Managing Director at hoppa, emphasizes that the cheapest option may not always translate to the best value.
“While Black Friday deals can be highly appealing, with discounts of up to £100 per person or 20% off total flight costs, these headline prices often mask additional charges,” warns Chris. “It’s crucial to thoroughly review the inclusions in your deal, such as resort fees, airport transfers, and cancellation policies, before comparing offers.”
To navigate the flurry of Black Friday deals, Chris provides valuable tips, including maximizing the benefits of the annual sale. One key advice is to double-check your flight timings before finalizing the booking.
He elaborates, “Occasionally, a deal might seem too good to pass up. While it may appear like a bargain, the discounted flight could have inconvenient timings, such as a 5 am departure or a 12-hour layover. For long-distance flights, ensure you scrutinize both legs of the journey to avoid excessively long layovers or tight connection times.”
Beyond just booking new vacations, Black Friday presents an opportunity to upgrade your flights or accommodations. Chris suggests, “Besides securing a more affordable deal than usual, there’s a chance to snag an upgrade at a fraction of the standard cost, whether it’s for flight upgrades or lavish amenities at all-inclusive resorts and luxury hotels. If you’re eyeing a better deal, now is the time to seize it.”
Additionally, Chris advises having a flexible booking policy, especially for trips in the upcoming year. “When booking trips around this time, consider the possibility of weather disruptions like heavy snowfall and storms. I recommend prioritizing Black Friday deals that offer flexible cancellation policies or flight exchanges. While it may entail a slightly higher initial cost, it can save you significantly if plans need adjustment,” he suggests.
While the urgency to secure a holiday deal before it expires or before November 28 ends may seem pressing, it’s essential to make informed decisions.
“Deals may sell out swiftly, but maintain a composed approach and invest time in comparing recent price trends through price comparison sites or fare-tracking tools. It might reveal that the deal isn’t as great as it seems. If the price was inflated before the discount, it’s not a genuine saving. It’s advisable to set a budget and adhere to it to prevent overspending,” he advises.
By following these insightful tips from Chris,