As we enter the summer months, many people are looking to plan their vacations but are hesitant due to the high prices that come with peak travel season. However, a recent study by Expedia suggests that there is still hope for those looking to save money on their summer trips. By choosing to travel towards the end of August, travellers can enjoy significant savings on both airfare and accommodation. This shift in travel dates can make a big difference in the overall cost of your trip, whether you’re planning a European getaway, an Asian adventure, or a staycation within the UAE.
When it comes to airfares, a comparison of prices on various travel websites such as Sky Scanner, Expedia, and Ease My Trip shows that there is a noticeable drop in prices during the last few days of August. For Caucasian countries, the average round-trip airfare in July is around Dh1,700, but this drops by nearly 20 per cent towards the end of August. Similarly, airfares to European destinations like France, Switzerland, the UK, and Sweden see a significant decrease of almost 30 per cent in price during the last 3 days of the month. Travellers planning a trip to Asian countries such as India can also save around 40 per cent on airfare by choosing to travel at the end of August.
Accommodation prices also see a decline towards late August, as the demand for hotels decreases during this time. Expedia’s research suggests that July is the most expensive month to travel due to high demand for accommodation, whereas prices become more attractive in late August. A comparison of hotel prices on Booking.com shows that a stay in Bangkok for 4 nights for 2 adults at a three or four-star property can be nearly 45 per cent cheaper during the last week of August. Similarly, a 3-night stay in Maldives at a 4-star property and accommodation in Baku, Azerbaijan for 3 nights also shows significant price reductions towards the end of August.
Local travel agencies and tour operators confirm that package prices are also lower at the end of August due to various factors. Families returning to the UAE after their summer vacations lead to higher return airfare prices, which affects package prices. Additionally, many residents are preparing for the academic year and do not travel during this time, resulting in reduced accommodation costs. However, experts advise travellers to book packages early to take advantage of significant discounts and not wait for last-minute bookings. By planning ahead and choosing to travel at the end of August, travellers can enjoy considerable savings on their summer vacations while still experiencing all the joys of travel.
