Who doesn’t like to save money? Flights can easily double or triple the cost of a cruise if you’re not careful. We’ll show you how to get cheap flights for your next cruise. Cruising is the best way to see the world. You get to travel to unique places, see new things and meet new people. Cruising is a great way to relax and unwind–spending your days on the open ocean, soaking up the sun and taking in the sights.
It’s a dream come true for many!
But what if you’re currently in the USA and your cruise is departing from the United Kingdom? How do you get there? Well, of course, by flying! Unfortunately, there are not a lot of cruise lines offering flight packages.
Also, most of the time, the prices for flights are high. So how do you get around this? For a little help, we’ve put together a guide on how to get cheap flights for your next cruise.
Consider Using A Flight Consolidator
Flight consolidators refer to ticket resellers that sell blocks of tickets from airlines at a discount. Many consolidators have access to fares that are not available to the general public. Not many people know about consolidators and those that do often wonder if it is safe to purchase a ticket from one. The truth is that there are both good and bad consolidators out there, and it is essential to do your research before you book with one.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when you are looking for a consolidator:
- Make sure the company is reputable and has been in business for a while.
- Check if the company is a member of a recognized trade organization, such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
- Compare prices between consolidators and other travel websites like Next Vacay.
- Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your purchase.
What’s more, please note that they often carry more restrictions than the airlines themselves. For example, you might not be eligible for advance seat selection or frequent flyer miles. Regardless, these restrictions are genuinely worth it for an affordable fare.
Low-Cost Airlines
Low-cost airlines or carriers offer rock-bottom fares to fill up their seats. They don’t offer the same amenities or services as a full-service airline, but they get you from Point A to Point B without breaking the bank. Often, the airport will be smaller than a full-service airline and is outside of the city. Even so, if you can shave off a few hundred dollars on those ticket prices, it may be worth the extra effort. Low-cost airlines are undoubtedly not for everyone. They come with no perks and sometimes charge extra for carry-on luggage. But if you’re looking to save a few bucks, they’re worth considering.
Alternate Airports
Indeed, there is more than one airport near your designated cruise port. For instance, you can fly into Newark, JFK or LaGuardia, if sailing out of New York City. The more options you have regarding travel dates and airports, the more likely you will find a great deal. Alternate airports are a great way to save money on those flight tickets. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and can fly to a nearby airport, you can save yourself some money. Just be sure to do your research and find out what the alternate airport’s proximity to your cruise port is like.
Use Credit Card Points or Miles
Another great way to save money on flight tickets is by using your miles or credit card points. You can often redeem these for free or discounted travel. If you’re not already a member of a frequent flyer program, it’s worth signing up for one before you book your flight. Programs like Delta SkyMiles or United MileagePlus offer rewards for every mile you fly, which can add up quickly if you travel often. Or, you could sign up for a co-branded credit card that earns miles every time you make a purchase. Both programs have different reward tiers, so you’ll want to do your research to see which one offers the best rewards for your travel habits. You can also use credit card points to pay for flights, so be sure to sign up for a card that offers bonus miles or travel rewards.
Book During Off-Peak Travel Period
There are a few things to take into account when booking your flight. Obviously, the cost is essential, but there are other factors you should consider. For example, when is the best time to fly?
Knowing when to fly is one of the essential things to consider because it significantly influences the cost of your ticket. If you want to save money, fly mid-week and avoid peak travel times like weekends and holidays.
And keep in mind that the early bird does catch the worm- book your flight as soon as possible to get the best rates.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to get affordable flight fares has always been a tricky, complicated affair. And it’s especially true when you plan to go cruising. Often, airport lines know which seasons are busiest for cruising, setting their prices accordingly. Fortunately, there are ways to save money or find a good deal on that premium-priced flight ticket, such as using a flight consolidator.
