Black Friday presents a golden opportunity for Brits to book a discounted holiday, from European city breaks to long-haul adventures. However, a leading travel expert has issued a stark warning about one common blunder that could turn a dream trip into a financial headache.
The Pitfall of the Cheapest Deal
Chris Harrington, Managing Director at transport provider hoppa, cautions that the most tempting Black Friday offer isn't always the best value for money. The cheapest deal can often hide expensive add-ons, turning an apparent bargain into a costly mistake.
"Black Friday deals can be extremely tempting, with many companies offering as much as £100 off per person or 20% off overall flights. But these headline prices can often hide add-ons," Chris explained. He advises travellers to scrutinise what's included in any deal, paying close attention to resort fees, airport transfers, and cancellation policies before confirming a booking.
Essential Checks Before You Book
To navigate the frenzy of the annual sales event, which is in full swing from Friday, 28 November, Chris shared his top tips for securing a genuine bargain.
Firstly, he emphasises the importance of verifying flight times. "Sometimes, a deal can be too good to be true. Sure, it may look like you're getting a steal, but the flight may be going cheap because it departs at 5am or there's a 12-hour layover," he said. For long-distance flights, he recommends checking both legs of the journey to avoid uncomfortably long layovers or impractically tight connection times.
Secondly, Black Friday isn't just for booking entirely new holidays. It's also a prime time for upgrades. "In addition to bagging a cheaper deal than usual, there's also the opportunity to secure an upgrade at a fraction of the usual cost. This can range from flight upgrades to all-inclusive resorts and hotels with more luxurious facilities," Chris noted.
Smart Strategies for Savvy Travellers
With winter trips in mind, the expert also highlighted the value of flexible booking policies. "If you're booking trips for this time of year, keep in mind the likelihood of weather disruptions like heavy snowfall and storms," he shared. He suggests prioritising deals that include a flexible cancellation policy or allow for flight exchanges, as a slightly higher upfront cost could save hundreds of pounds if plans change.
Finally, amid the pressure to book quickly, Chris advises maintaining a level head. "Deals can move quickly, but keep a steady head and spend some time checking recent price trends by using price comparison websites or fare-tracking tools, as it may turn out to not be a decent deal at all," he cautioned. He warns that some companies inflate prices before applying a discount, creating a false sense of saving. His key recommendation is to set a firm budget and stick to it to avoid overspending in the excitement.
By following this expert guidance, travellers can confidently navigate the Black Friday sales, secure a fantastic holiday deal, and avoid any unwelcome surprises. A little research and diligence during the booking process can ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
