Travel expert advises against ‘stress-inducing’ money-saving method

Money-saving tips and hacks are key for some travelers, who manage to cut down costs thanks to clever methods that can help them save hundreds of dollars.

However, a vacation planning business owner explained why he would put off collecting points if that means having more peace of mind.

Mitch Krayton, owner of Krayton Travel in Denver, told Forbes why focusing too much on collecting points can become stressful.

"There is so much stress involved in collecting points and even more redeeming them," he said.

“It's best to first know where you want to go, when, and what you want to do once you are there.

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“Folks deserve to travel the way they want instead of being subject to complex rules and the restrictions of points."

Certain airlines reportedly have frequent flyer redemption rates that fall below 10 percent, implying that the effort invested in accumulating miles may be futile.

According to Krayton, in 2023, a more practical approach is to prioritize booking the desired trip directly rather than attempting to navigate it through points.

Now, as 2023 comes to an end, travel enthusiasts are already planning ahead for their next adventure - and looking for the best deals has become a task in itself.

Mark Johnson, from hotel booking website H18YC, shared his insights on the optimal timing for booking to save money and ensure maximum availability.

Determining the ideal time to book a holiday involves considering various factors such as destination, budget, flexibility, and desired experiences.

If you have specific destinations, accommodations, or experiences in mind, booking well in advance ensures availability. This is particularly advantageous for popular destinations or exclusive resorts and may also secure early-bird discounts.

Mark noted that while concerns about changing plans may deter some from early booking, many sites and hotels offer free cancellation policies, allowing flexibility while capitalizing on early-bird savings.

Discussing the possibility of booking 8-12 months in advance, the expert noted: “It's the best of both worlds – securing great deals while retaining the flexibility to adapt if needed.”

For those with flexibility, keeping an eye on deals 3-6 months before the trip can yield significant benefits. This period often sees airlines and hotels releasing promotional deals to fill remaining capacity.

Mark emphasized that this timeframe strikes a balance between early planning and last-minute spontaneity, allowing travelers to secure high-value offers without compromising quality or preference.