The rise of Travel Tuesday coincides with the lull in the travel industry, as airlines and hotels seek to fill seats and rooms during a typically quiet time of year. If you missed the Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales, this is your second chance. But how did Travel Tuesday become such a significant event for travelers, and what can you do to make sure you’re getting the best deal?
Why Travel Tuesday Is the New Black Friday for Travel Deals
Travel Tuesday has grown dramatically since it was coined in 2017 by the travel booking platform Hopper. According to Simon Calder, a travel correspondent for The Independent, the days between Thanksgiving and early December mark the tourism sector’s “low season,” when airlines and hotels slash prices to fill planes and rooms. These cuts coincide perfectly with the increasing demand for travel deals, making it a prime time to book.
The day has become increasingly popular, with a notable surge in search interest. McKinsey & Company reports that searches for “Travel Tuesday” grew by over 500% between 2021 and 2023, indicating a clear shift in consumer behavior. The deals available on this day aren’t just limited to flights, discounts often extend to hotel bookings and vacation packages as well, meaning travelers can potentially save hundreds by acting fast.
Travel Tuesday doesn’t just benefit domestic travelers in the U.S. Many international platforms and agencies have followed the trend, offering discounts to customers around the globe. For instance, operators in the UK have started to include Travel Tuesday promotions, ensuring that the event’s influence is reaching wider markets.
How to Maximize Savings on Travel Tuesday
While the deals can be enticing, it’s important to approach Travel Tuesday strategically. Experts advise travelers to check prices beforehand to know if the discounts offered on the day are truly worth it. Many booking platforms offer price tracking tools, which can help identify a good deal when it arrives.
Being flexible with dates and destinations is key to getting the best prices. If you’re open to changing your travel dates or destination slightly, you might be able to take advantage of even deeper discounts. Additionally, booking directly through airlines or hotel chains can sometimes yield better savings compared to third-party sites, as many brands offer extra perks or lower rates to customers who book directly.
Another pro tip is to sign up for alerts ahead of time. Many airlines and travel agencies will send out exclusive deals and early-bird offers to their subscribers, giving them a head start on finding the best deals before they’re widely available. If you’re planning a vacation for the upcoming year, booking during Travel Tuesday could save you a significant amount.
