That travel promotion just might be too good to be true.
Before you book your summer vacation, buyer beware. There are a lot of flashy travel promotions hitting your social feed that may seem like an unreal deal, and they often are too good to be true.
Kristin Hancock, with Bright Life Travel, helps us all travel smarter this summer season.
Avoid Clickbait Travel Promotions
Promotions can be tempting, but it’s important to approach them with a critical eye. The internet is overrun with ads that are looking to get clicks rather than provide genuine deals. “The Internet is kind of out to trick us sometimes with so many promotions and advertising,” Kristin said. “A lot of the time they just want our clicks.” She warned against falling for clickbait ads that promise unrealistic prices just to boost search engine rankings.
“We just have to be really careful that we’re seeing the full picture,” she emphasized. It’s important not to be swayed by the initial low prices that skyrocket by adding hidden fees or change once you select specific dates.
Understand Baseline Pricing
“Every resort, every cruise line is going to have some sort of baseline pricing,” Kristin said. Knowing this general pricing for hotels, resorts, and cruises is key. It will fluctuate based on demand and availability.
“If you know the baseline price of where a cruise or a resort might be, then that gives you the knowledge for when you see that price dip. Then you know you’re getting a good price,” Kristin explained. Recognizing a genuine discount from a baseline price can save you from falling for a seemingly great deal that turns out to be too good to be true.
Be Aware of Skeleton Pricing
Skeleton pricing often misleads consumers, especially in the cruising industry. Advertised prices may seem low, but once taxes, fees, room selection, and mandatory gratuities are added, the cost significantly increases. Kristin highlighted the California Consumer Protection Law, which mandates more transparent upfront pricing. “I’ve gotten a lot of communication from cruise lines that starting on July 1st, they are requiring more upfront pricing. So those hidden fees shouldn’t be as bad anymore,” Kristin mentioned.
Consider Customer Service and Cancellation Policies
The value of customer service and clear cancellation policies cannot be overstated. “There’s a big difference between some third party sites, and sometimes they may not be as easily able to fix your problems,” Kristin said. Booking directly or through a professional can provide security and advocacy, ensuring you have the necessary support if things go wrong.
Traveling smart requires a keen eye and knowledge. By understanding pricing strategies and the importance of customer service, you can navigate the summer promotions with confidence.
For more travel advice, visit brightlifetravelco.com or follow Kristin on Instagram @travelbright.
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