The most anticipated shopping day of the year, Black Friday, is almost upon us. Trip-hungry travellers can’t afford to miss out on the big day’s one-off specials, available on Friday 29 November 2019.
Whether you’re a frequent traveller who believes a trip is worth more than any number of pairs of shoes, or a first-time explorer wanting to dip your toe into the exciting world of travel, here’s our ultimate, six-point checklist to make sure you snag the best travel bargains.
Do your research ahead of Black Friday
Research and decide on the destinations you’re most interested in beforehand. Know the best times to visit and where you would like to stay. It can be overwhelming to sort through the mountains of choice and product information out there (not all of it reliable) in a hurry.
“Flight Centre’s Black Friday sale will take place over 24 hours starting on 29 November 2019,” says Sue Garrett, General Manager Marketing and Product at the Flight Centre Travel Group. Do your research and consult with a travel expert beforehand.
It also pays to know the average price of packages for your chosen destination/s and your preferred dates, so you know what to expect.
Picking the right Black Friday deals
Next, compile a list of must-haves and a trip wish-list.
“Your must-have list should include all the information you’ve gathered in your research and your chosen destination,” says Garrett. “A wish-list can consist of nice-to-haves-but-not-essentials. Black Friday is a great chance to upgrade or better your holiday. If you were planning on a garden-view room, for example, you might be able to upgrade to a sea-view room for less.”
It also helps only to include items on your must-have list that you don’t want to compromise on. So, if your heart is set on an over-water villa in the Maldives, there’s less chance you will get caught up in a Black-Friday frenzy and book something else.
That said, be flexible. You may find possibilities you hadn’t even considered and book an even better holiday says Garrett.
“Flight Centre will be offering significant savings on beach favourites such as Thailand, Mauritius, Zanzibar and Bali, domestic and international airfares, local bush, beach and city packages, and bestselling tours and cruises from top travel brands. Trafalgar Holidays is also offering Black Friday savings of up to 20% on worldwide trips.”
Teresa Richardson, Managing Director of The Travel Corporation in South Africa, Trafalgar’s parent company, adds: “Think trips to Europe’s most iconic hotspots and popular countries. These include itineraries that give a general overview of an area or region as well as in-depth Country Explorer trips that delve deep into the history, culture and attractions of a certain place.” (Trafalgar’s Black Friday offers are available from 25 November to 2 December 2019, so don’t miss out.)
“For small-group adventure guided itineraries, consider G Adventures at 35% off this Black Friday,” Garrett adds. “Or, if you want to tick off a bucket-list cruise experience in Norway, the Arctic or Antarctica, check out Hurtigruten’s Black Friday offers with £100 free onboard credit on selected cruises.”
Plan your dates
It is essential to know your dates (even if you’re flexible). Prices can fluctuate significantly according to seasons and time of year. Still, it’s no use booking a great special if you aren’t sure you can get leave or travel around a certain public holiday, etc. Have your dates (we suggest a few in priority order) ready beforehand.
Set your budget
Consider all costs beforehand, including those items you may not have budgeted for. That includes visa costs, travel insurance, foreign exchange, any vaccinations and/or other documentation that may be required.
“Travel insurance is non-negotiable,” says Garrett. “Travellers must not cut corners. You don’t want your dream holiday and great bargain ruined by something unforeseen happening on your trip, do you?”
Black Friday shoppers also need to know how they’re going to pay for the airfare, package, cruise, etc, on booking as deals will be limited.
Check your passport and documents
Most countries require a passport that’s valid at least six months after the intended return date. The requirement differs from country to country, so be sure to check with the relevant embassy.
“If you’re planning on booking a last-minute special, or even if you’re only travelling next year, don’t forget to check your passport. Many travellers have been caught out and unable to travel because of this regulation. Remember to check your children’s passports, too, and ensure you have all the documentation required for them. It’s your responsibility, so don’t forget.” warns Garrett.
“Shoppers are also going to need passport information and dates at the time of booking. The spelling of your name must be exactly how it appears in your passport, too, so don’t forget to check this.”
Be an early bird or a night owl – or both
Whatever you need to do to grab a great travel deal, do it! Whether that’s staying up until midnight or being first in line outside a Flight Centre store in the morning, it pays to beat the crowds.
“Selected Black Friday specials will be available online from midnight with all deals open to purchase from 7 am. Travellers who prefer to get expert one-on-one advice should visit a Travel Expert in one of our stores across the country,” says Garrett. “Flight Centre stores will be open from 7 am on the day, so you can pop in before work and secure your dream holiday at a dream price,” she adds.
“My top tip would be to be outside the store when they open. There may be queues even then, but remember: deals are limited and only available while stocks last.”
By being super organised and prepared, you’re sure to snag the holiday of your dreams at a great price this Black Friday.