Kiwis Bag Travel Bargains to Escape Winter

25 May 2016

Kiwis Bag Travel Bargains to Escape Winter

Cheapflights.co.nz Reveals Classic Destinations Still Reign

Adventure is on the cards for thousands of Kiwis according to latest research fromCheapflights.co.nz that reveals an increasing number of locals have been locking in cheap fares to classic destinations this winter.

Data from the leading flight search and deals publishing platform shows the number of searches for flights in July jumped 102 per cent from those in May, with June being the most popular winter month to travel.

Looking at advanced booking behaviour since February, Cheapflights.co.nz found the Northern Hemisphere destinations of London, Paris and Los Angeles were amongst the most popular international destinations from June through August. Favourite Australian destinations of Melbourne and Sydney also consistently featured in the top five.

Nathan Graham, Regional Sales Manager ANZ at Cheapflights, said: “Despite the weakening NZ dollar and some rumblings about lower consumer confidence, Kiwis’ wanderlust cannot be quashed. Competitively priced airfares and the lure of a UK, European or North American summer are keeping long haul travel firmly on the agenda.

“As winter sets in, we expect to see an even further increase in last minute getaway searches, as Kiwis look to chase the sun.”

To help locals save time, hassle and money on their next adventure, Cheapflights.co.nz has the following travel tips:

• Don't sleep over: Save on accommodation by travelling at night! Booking travel this way will not only help your wallet, it will ensure you maximise possible sight-seeing time.

• Search for one traveller to start: When booking flights for a group or family, start searching as if you are looking to travel as an individual. This way you’ll see all the results, and if there are a few seats left at a lower fare (and you don’t mind potentially travelling separately), you can at least grab them and get a partial deal.

• Go left: Scientists aren't sure why people are more likely to turn right than left (perhaps it's because more people are right-handed?), but when faced with the choice at the airport security line, go left as those lines tend to be shorter.

• Cash in on freebies: There are loads of perks available on flights, from amenity kits on Virgin Atlantic to postcards and playing cards with Singapore airlines – just make sure you do your research before jumping on board so you know exactly what to ask for. Not only will you lighten the load and have extra room in your carry-on, but you will also save money by not having to buy these little luxuries.

• Nab free tickets: Most monuments, museums and attractions offer free entry once a week or month. Research each place you plan to visit in advance, and then time your visits to coincide with free e.g. V & A Museum in London or reduced admissions. Remember some attractions also offer cheaper deals by booking online.

• Don't roam: Avoid racking up charges on your mobile by switching off ‘data roaming’ and only using Wi-Fi, which is available at many of New Zealand travellers’ top destinations while in public places such as airports as well as on public transport. Using free messaging apps like WhatsApp and navigating with offline maps including CityMaps2Go and the hidden feature on Google Maps will also reduce your bill.

• Get carded: Pack your student ID or an International Student Identity Card to grab a bargain from reduced museum entry to discounted clothing. If you're not a student, you can still get discounts – anyone 30 years old or younger can get an International Youth Travel Card, and full-time teachers or professors can get an International Teacher Identity Card. And if you're a retiree or a veteran, many places will offer you discounts as well.

For more travel inspiration, or to book your next holiday or flights, visit Cheapflights.co.nz

ENDS

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