Bargain Travel in 2009
2009 May be a Bargain Year for Travellers but Beware of Hidden Costs
Jan 18, 2009
The economic tail spin that started in 2008 will ensure that 2009 will be a travel year like no other. It is likely that hefty discounts will be the norm on every thing from airfares to hotel rooms to package holidays. But beyond 2009 and into the second decade of the millennium who knows what will happen.
Here are some tips for the savvy traveller:
Bankruptcies
Be aware of bankruptcies not the personal kind but of airlines, cruise lines, tour companies and travel agencies. When one of these businesses goes bust their customers are the losers; forfeiting large deposits or complete payments for the holiday and at the worst case may be left stranded in far away places and perhaps facing a hefty bill to return home.
How to deal with this possible catastrophe? Pay for the holiday with a credit card; in many countries there are laws in place that protect credit card customers from loss of money by the collapse of travel services paid for but not delivered.
Insurance
Insurances may be of use but ensure that they are provided by third party insurers and not the travel agency or holiday providers as these may include waivers exonerating them from any liability should they fail.
But make sure that the insurance policy includes cessation of trading and financial default and not just formal filing for bankruptcy. Even though shopping around for suitable travel insurance is a good idea, it should be bought as soon as possible after booking the holiday.
Airline Fees
Examine the fees charged by airlines because the true cost of flying is not always included in the ticket price (although the European Union has gone some way to rectify this). Extra charges for a second piece of checked-in luggage, fuel surcharges, increased costs for telephone reservations and bookings; these apply particularly to the airline industry in the United States.
Then other ‘amenities’ may be charged for like extra legroom, priority boarding or the privilege of shorter security lines all add to the cost of flying. Some full cost US domestic carriers and low cost carriers particularly are charging for food and beverages even a bottle of water.
Extra Travel Costs
Of course before arriving at the airport there are taxi or train fares to consider, at the airport food and drink may be expensive even for a mediocre sandwich or meal. a bottle of beer or a glass of wine will certainly burn a hole in the pocket.
It is not just airlines of course that add the burden of extra charges; governments and airport authorities do to, taxes may be a nasty shock with governments increasingly seeking to enhance their tax income.
Check, Check, Check for Bargains
Hotel rooms too can hide some costs, the best bet for a good price is to book via email or use a hotel-booking site. But it is best surely to sign up to get special deals and discounts. But before you confirm that booking make sure that the ‘special deal’ is not more expensive than is available on the Web or by telephone booking – because you never can tell until you check.
 |
