CHARLOTTE, N.C. — If you missed out on a summer getaway because of expensive airfare, now might be a good time to take advantage of last-minute deals or look toward an early fall vacation.
Kyle Maltz, a travel expert from Dollar Flight Club, told WCNC Charlotte there are plenty of ways folks can save while booking a flight to close out the summer. Unlike a traditional travel agency, Maltz said Dollar Flight Club looks for highly discounted flights and then alerts customers about the best deals.
"We are constantly looking at flights that are leaving our customers' home airports," he said. "We analyze that data and we alert you when we find flights that are below the average, standard airfare."
With summer wrapping up, Maltz said the shoulder season, the period between peak season and the offseason, is as good a time as any for travel.
"A lot of travel happens in the summer when children are out of school," Maltz explained. "During that transitional period, as things start to wane as far as demand and maybe an increase of supply, you will see that there are much better deals to have as they want to fill that inventory and get it booked with customers."
There are many opportunities for a great deal if you're looking to hit a tropical spot. For example, you can save up to 60% off the average flight to Turks and Caicos. If you're looking to head to Europe, Maltz said some of the best deals are to London, Oslo and Paris.
"It's top of mind with the Olympics," he said.
Once your flight is booked, Maltz suggests staying in one location to maximize your budget. Finding an Airbnb, for example, can help customers take advantage of extended-stay discounts.
Centralizing your travel can also save money on other things, including meals, since you can also cook some of your own instead of dining out every day.
Contact Jane Monreal at jmonreal@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.