The carefree spirit of late summer lingers in the gentle warmth and golden leaves of early autumn.

Still, Reader, now is the time to begin planning your holiday travel, especially your holiday flights.

Remember those days when last-minute airfares would offer irresistible deals on unsold seats?

Paul and I do. We gladly took maximum advantage of travel opportunities that suited both our pocketbook and our schedule.

Alas, those days are gone.

And remember those rumours that booking flights on specific weekdays could lower prices?

Unfortunately, says The Points Guy, “there’s just no truth to those legends.”

TPG instead suggests booking domestic flights 1 to 2 months in advance, and international flights 3 to 5 months before your travel date.

The New York Times Frugal Traveler Elaine Glusac recommends the “sweet spot” to book the cheapest tickets is usually 6 to 12 weeks prior.

While TPG and The Frugal Travelers may differ somewhat in the ticketing timeframe; however, they both agree to:

1) Start monitoring flights and tracking airfares on Google Flights.

2) Set notification alerts so you’re aware when prices change.

3) Snap up the deal and secure your flights.

The Frugal Traveler further advises keeping an eye even after you’ve booked. Because if the airfare for your flight drops, you may be able to request a refund of the difference in points or a cash credit.

So, Paul and I are now putting advice into action. Because to put a topical twist on the adage “A penny saved is a penny earned” –

“A penny saved is more travel earned.” Or as Mommy, our beloved Bunna, always said, “Spend it wisely.”

Reader, here’s to spending it – money, time, energy – wisely. In travel and in life.

Until next time,

Travel on, sparkle on, meaningfully✨

Marilee + Paul Kostadimas
Spotlight Sojourns | Slow Travel
​with the Hidden Gemologists®

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PS: If you’d like to prepare for holiday travel and other trips, click HERE to read our article “Essential Travel Safety Tips, Resources, and Recommendations.”​

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