Once it makes sense for all of us to start traveling again, it’s going to be like we’ve never seen it before. However, will it be more expensive than it used to be?
Let me level with you: there’s no one answer to this question, and it will depend on various factors such as where you’re flying from, your destination, timing, and the extent to which it’s open to travelers. National restrictions, whether at your end or the destination’s end, will also play a significant role in influencing travel costs.
Let’s work through these issues in a structured manner.
Should I fly with a low-cost airline for a summer getaway?
As a general rule, if you’re looking for a couple of relaxed weeks in the sun at a destination that’s typically popular, you might find it both possible and reasonably priced.
This could be the perfect time for northern Europeans to explore the temperate rainforests in the central mountains of Gran Canaria instead of considering a long-haul or off-the-beaten-path travel. Meanwhile, holiday and low-cost airlines are already taking reservations, and traditional vacation spots have the infrastructure to support the return of travelers.
Moreover, it’s important to consider timing as there tends to be a price surge around school holidays, and that is likely to persist this year. Additionally, anticipate pricing spikes immediately following any easing of travel restrictions by your home government.
Be aware of how open your chosen destination is to leisure travelers. Typically, domestic travel or visits to neighboring countries will likely resume before international travel options expand. This could also create increased demand from those who have been restricted from visiting family and friends for some time.
Traveling to countries that remain closed, such as Australia and New Zealand, is mostly limited to repatriation or urgent travel, often with mandatory managed isolation quarantines, where costs may be substantial. Therefore, if you’re concerned about expenses, you might want to remove these destinations from your list.
Procuring affordable flights for summer 2021
As many are eager to travel, it is essential to ensure your journey is both reasonable and safe. Consequently, it’s crucial to stay updated with guidance from public health authorities both locally and internationally to safeguard yourself and others.
In addition to the flight price, you should consider the potential financial risk associated with tieing your funds up in non-refundable airline vouchers if your flight is canceled. This may prevent you from scheduling a replacement trip, which could end up being more costly.
Once you’re ready to travel, explore options on flight comparison websites, such as Google Flights, to assess available routes for your intended travel dates. Do the prices align with your budget?
Furthermore, see if you can travel during off-peak times. For families constrained by school schedules, being strategic about your travel dates and destinations is crucial. It may even be more feasible to embark on a family road trip or rail journey instead of flying for the foreseeable future.
If you can arrange your travels around school holiday times or consider midweek travel, you are likely to discover much better deals. Similarly, steering clear of booking during the immediate aftermath of lockdown will help you avoid those price spikes.
Ultimately, my top tip for the next six to nine months: be patient, observe the situation regarding vaccines and COVID-19 levels at home and in your desired destinations. Once it’s responsible and practical for you to travel, remain flexible with last-minute deals that might be available.
John Walton is an aviation journalist recognized for his contributions to various aviation publications. He invites discussions and queries on Twitter, where he’s @thatjohn!
