Booking Tickets in Advance
Travel is a necessity for many, especially in the times we live in. There is an increase in competition with the growth of independent, low-cost airlines and improved international travel options. With increased competition comes increased customer choice and, in most cases, some great discounts on plane tickets. While booking plane tickets can be a daunting task, the rewards could be well worth the extra effort. One of the most important aspects of travelling today is making sure you book tickets in advance. Although there are advantages and disadvantages to booking tickets in advance, there are still some clear pros that come with booking early.
Lower Airfare
One of the biggest advantages to booking plane tickets in advance is the cost savings. Airlines typically release the lowest fares first for flights months in advance. As such, booking your plane tickets in advance will usually help you save money. The earlier you book, the better chance you have at finding a discounted ticket. There are also websites such as Travelocity, Expedia and Priceline that offer discounted fares for customers who book in advance.
More Chances of Seat Availability
It can be difficult to secure a seat at the last minute, especially if it’s during peak season. Airlines tend to fill up their flights months in advance. However, if you book your tickets in advance, you are more likely to get a seat on the plane. This is especially helpful if you’re planning on travelling to a more popular destination.
More Time to Plan
When you book your tickets in advance, you have more time to plan your trip. This is beneficial because you don’t have to rush to find a hotel or rush to schedule your activities. You can also make sure you have enough time to make any changes to your itinerary if needed.If you don’t book your ticket in advance, you have a much higher risk of not getting the ticket you want or the hotel you desire. Also, you may have to book all your activities on the go and sometimes, it’s not always the best choice. Furthermore, booking in advance can help you save money on your trip since the sooner you plan the more likely you wouldn’t miss any seasonal discounts or early bird offers.
Change and Cancellation Policy
When you book your tickets in advance, you are more likely to be able to make changes or cancel the ticket if needed. Most airlines offer a grace period before they start charging extra fees. You might also get the option to simply reschedule the ticket at no extra cost. This is especially useful if your plans change suddenly.
Options to Upgrade
Booking in advance also gives you more options to upgrade your ticket. Airlines usually sell the most discounted tickets first and then the prices gradually start to rise as more tickets get sold out. This means you are more likely to find discounted prices if you book your tickets in advance. Moreover, you also have higher chances of getting upgraded to business or first-class if you book early. This can be a great way to travel in comfort and luxury.
More Comfortable
Booking your tickets in advance can also make the overall travel experience more comfortable. By taking the time to book your tickets at least three weeks before your departure, you can make sure that you don’t end up with the worst seat on the plane. Having a comfortable seat is essential for a more enjoyable journey. Additionally, by having more time to research, you can also find the best time to travel. This way, you can plan your trip around the airports’ peak times, avoiding any unpleasant experiences during check-in and security.
Overall, booking your tickets in advance is the best way to make sure you get the best prices, the most comfort and the most upgrades. Although there are a few disadvantages to booking your tickets so early, such as the risk of an unexpected change in plans, this rarely affects the majority of passengers. So, book in advance whenever possible to get the most out of your travel experience.
