Summary
AAA encourages travelers to start planning their holiday trips early. A new AAA travel survey indicates that many travelers delay booking due to budget concerns or the hope for lower prices. However, almost half end up paying more than if they had booked earlier. Early planning often allows for more choices and flexibility for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s travel.
Key Takeaways
- 24% of Illinois residents start planning holiday trips in September and October.
- 48% delay booking and end up paying more.
- 48% postpone booking due to budget concerns.
- 36% wait hoping for lower prices.
- Overspending is the most common regret among travelers.
News Release Highlights
As Labor Day signals the end of summer, AAA emphasizes it’s time to start planning for holiday vacations. According to their survey, only 8% of Illinoisans wait until November or December to plan.
Despite hopes for better deals, many travelers face increased costs due to delays:
- 48% reported paying more after waiting to book.
- 16% paid significantly more, while 32% paid somewhat more.
Molly Hart, a spokeswoman for AAA, notes that while travelers don’t need to book immediately, early research and preparation can lead to better choices.
Reasons for Delaying Bookings
- 48% budget concerns
- 36% waiting for lower prices
- 22% waiting for family or friends to commit
- 18% concerns about weather or travel disruptions
Engaging a Travel Advisor early on can help travelers keep track of deals and plan effectively, especially for international trips or complex itineraries.
