6 Travel Tips to Know Before Your Next Getaway

 

As travel is back with a vengeance, we’re becoming all too familiar with the unexpected issues that can arise: expensive flights and hotels, travel delays, and lost luggage — to name a few.

When you’re planning a trip for the new year, we’ve got some travel tips and UOB Card travel deals to help you enjoy some savings; and have a memorable holiday.

 

 

1. Figure out the best destination for you 

Image credit: RossHelen via Canva Pro

 

Before you get to the nitty-gritties, it’s important to figure out where you’re travelling to in the first place. 

 

The world is a big place, and while you may be tempted to visit the countries you’re familiar with, perhaps exploring a place you’ve not been to before is something to consider in the new year.

 

With the help of the The Travel Insider quiz, you can find out just how well travelled you are. Plus, there’ll be a recommended destination at the end, which might be just what you need. 

 

If you need more inspiration, check out our Travel Inspiration page to stroke your wanderlust. 

 

 

 

2. Book your flights on the prime day of the week: Sunday

Image credit: travellinglight via Canva Pro

 

Now that you have a destination in mind, here are some tips for booking your flight and hotel. For one, we all know that prices during the off-seasons of March, April, August, and October will be cheaper. That is why, if you end up travelling during the peak season instead, the next thing is knowing when to book your flight and hotel: a travel tip that will remain important for 2023. 

 

According to Expedia, Sunday is the best day to book your flights; tickets are up to 20% cheaper than Fridays — the most expensive flight booking day of the week. 

 

More than that, make sure you book your flight for Thursdays. This way, you can save up to 25% compared to Monday — the most expensive flight offerings day of the week.

 

Also, remember to book your flights at least five weeks in advance. Doing so will ensure you get sufficient time to do your travel research like which airline to take; and hopefully, get a below-average price on your flight ticket. Also, morning departures are shown to be an average of 5% cheaper than evening flights. 

 

Among some of the world’s best airlines, Emirates and Qantas are now offering up to 10% off flights to popular destinations like Australia, New Zealand, London, and more — when you book with your UOB Card! 

 

 

 

3. Choose a connecting flight where possible

Image credit: Mantas Hesthaven

 

On that note, why not choose a connecting flight instead of a non-stop flight (if you’re not in a hurry to get to your destination)? Not only will you get to save money this way, you’ll even have time to explore the connecting city’s airport and its world-class facilities. 

 

Depending on how long your layover is, you might even be able to plan for an entire day exploring the connecting city. Think about it: it’ll be a holiday before the actual holiday! 

 

 

 

4. Hunt for the best hotel deals on Tuesdays and Fridays

Image credit: Edvin Johansson

 

Besides knowing when to book your flight, Tuesdays and Fridays have also been concluded (by two different travel companies) as the best days to make your hotel bookings. On top of this, you also need to know when the best check-in day is, as well as how long in advance to make the booking.  

 

According to hotel bookings made in 2021, Tuesdays are the cheapest day of the week to check into a hotel. Just make sure you avoid Thursdays and Fridays, as these are the most expensive offerings of the week. (It’s right before the weekend when most people would be travelling and checking in for a short vacation). 

 

Interestingly, hotel rates can actually drop one to seven days before your planned check-in date, when travellers utilise the 24 to 48-hour free cancellation policy on hotels. This tip could be useful if you’re planning for a short trip or if there are plenty of accommodation options at your destination. 

 

However, booking a hotel at the last minute might not be the best idea, especially if you’re travelling for a week (or more) or to somewhere further away. 

 

Check out The Travel Insider Deals page and enjoy up to 20% off accommodation bookings across a variety of partners!

 

 

 

5. Pack essentials in your carry-on bag! 

Image credit: Vlada Karpovich via Canva Pro

 

Beyond packing the right clothes for the weather at your destination, it’s important to have your essentials in your carry-on — in case your luggage goes missing. 

 

Besides, there’s only so much that travel insurance can do to help while you wait to retrieve your luggage. After taking a picture of your luggage (before checking in), your carry-on should include hard copies of your vaccination certificate and bookings for flights, trains, hotels, car rentals, itinerary, etc. Other necessities include medicine, toiletries, a portable charger, one change of clothes, and of course, more than one travel credit card.

 

Apply for a UOB PRVI Miles Card today, and earn 2.4 miles per dollar overseas spend, complimentary transfers, and travel insurance! 

T&Cs apply.

 

 

 

6. Get the most bang for your buck 

Image credit: GiorgioMagini via Canva Pro

 

Now that you’ve sorted out the flight and hotel bookings, it’s also worth booking your tickets to must-see attractions in advance. While booking and paying in advance might seem like you’re spending more money at first, you’ll be thankful that you can simply arrive at your booked slot and beat the long queue of people waiting to even buy a ticket. This means more time to explore the site itself! 

 

Other money-saving travel tips include signing up for free walking tours and eating at high-end restaurants during lunch (instead of dinner). This way, you’ll have the same lavish dining experience — at a lower cost.

 

Yes, planning and researching for your holiday might be daunting at first, but we hope that these travel tips will help you enjoy your 2023 trips more efficiently. Trust us: When you’re finally on your holiday, all the prep you’ve done will be worth it. 

 

Brought to you by The Travel Insider.