Summer travel dreams are taking flight, but be prepared for a potential bump in airfare, particularly for international destinations. Industry experts predict a rise in ticket prices this season, fueled by a combination of factors. According to The Economic Times, strong travel demand coupled with rising airline operational costs are key contributors. The travel industry is experiencing a significant rebound after pandemic restrictions eased. pent-up wanderlust is translating into a surge in bookings, putting pressure on airline capacity. This imbalance between supply and demand often leads to price increases.

Furthermore, airlines are grappling with rising fuel costs, a major expense that directly impacts ticket prices. The ongoing geopolitical situation and global oil market fluctuations are contributing to this trend. Additionally, airlines are investing in recovering their financial losses from the pandemic and staffing back up after significant layoffs. These factors are all factored into the final price you see when booking a flight.

Here are some tips:

Book early: While there are always last-minute deals, securing your flights well in advance allows you to lock in a price before they potentially rise further.

Consider shoulder seasons: If you have flexibility, aim for travel in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) surrounding peak summer months. Flights tend to be less expensive during these periods.

Be flexible with your travel dates and destinations: Even within peak season, ticket prices can fluctuate depending on the specific days you choose to fly. Look for deals on weekdays or consider alternative airports that might offer lower fares.

Explore budget airlines: While they may come with fewer amenities, budget airlines can offer significant savings on long-haul flights.

Sign up for airfare alerts: Many travel websites and apps allow you to set up alerts for specific routes. This way, you'll be notified when prices drop, allowing you to snag a deal.

By planning strategically and being flexible, you can still make your summer travel dreams a reality despite potentially higher airfare. So dust off your suitcase, start researching destinations, and get ready to explore, even if it takes a little extra planning to fit the cost into your budget.

Also read: If you are travelling to Bali, you have to spend this much extra (travellernook.com)