Fuel prices are “relatively not very high”, US President Donald Trump. However, Trump’s rhetoric couldn’t be further from the truth. The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has pushed up global oil prices and impacted airline operations, resulting in higher ticket prices and increased travel costs for many.
Rising oil prices have made jet fuel more expensive, forcing some airlines to increase ticket costs and reduce flight schedules. The travel industry is facing these issues during the busy summer season when millions of people are expected to travel.
A survey by Global Relief found that 85% of Americans are concerned that global conflict could delay or disrupt their travel plans. The concerns come as the U.S. prepares for major summer events, including fifa world cup 11-city races and U.S. 250 celebrations. Aviation consultant Robert Mann told Kiplinger that there are many factors affecting travel this summer and the situation is complicated.
Air ticket prices keep rising
Going travel expert Katy Nastro said domestic flight prices are up about 18% from a year ago, Kiplinger reported. International air tickets Prices also increased by 7.5%. Some airlines, especially international ones, have added or increased fuel surcharges. Nastro added that these fuel surcharges can add more than $200 to an economy-class ticket. Many U.S. airlines have also increased checked bag fees.
Also read: Trump says fuel prices ‘are not very high’ despite war with Iran; see latest prices
How travelers can avoid fuel surcharges
Nastro highlighted some advice for travelers in Kiplinger’s report. She advises travelers to be as flexible as possible with their travel dates and destinations, as flexibility is the best way to find cheaper flight options. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are generally the cheapest days to fly. Nastro said Sunday and Monday are typically the most expensive days for air travel.
It is recommended to use travel apps like Skyscanner, Hopper, Kayak and Google Flights to get fare alerts so you can book the cheapest flights. Are they helpful? Sometimes, when they do, they can get at least 50% cheaper. Travel expert Nastro said the best flight discounts are available in areas hit by natural disasters, such as the southeastern United States and the Caribbean, where hurricane risk can impact travel.
Airport delays may increase
Aviation consultant Robert Mann told Kiplinger that with the peak travel season approaching, airport security lines could become a major annoyance for travelers. Mann said the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has limited capacity, so delays may occur during peak travel periods. Travelers can reduce wait times by signing up for TSA PreCheck. TSA PreCheck allows approved travelers to use faster security lanes.
Travelers can also use CLEAR+ as it uses a fingerprint or facial scan to verify identity and allow travelers to move to the front of the security line. CLEAR+ costs $209 per year and includes the PreCheck benefit. Kiplinger noted that the five-year cost for TSA PreCheck alone is approximately $76.75. International travelers can combine PreCheck with Global Entry for faster customs processing when returning to the United States. Global pass is $120. Some credit card and travel loyalty programs offer reimbursement or discounts for these memberships.
Book flights directly with airlines
Rising fuel costs have led some airlines to cancel flights. Nastro recommends booking flights directly with the airline rather than through a third-party travel website. Booking directly with the airline makes it easier to change or rebook your flight if it’s delayed or cancelled. Travelers should download the airline’s mobile app and turn on flight notifications.
Henry Harteveldt, president of Atmospheric Research Group, said travelers need to pay close attention to their bookings, Kiplinger reported. Harteveldt said travelers must act as their own advocates when managing flight disruptions. Travelers flying internationally should ensure their mobile phone plan is valid at their destination. Harteveldt added that this can help avoid expensive fees if they need to spend a long time contacting the airline to rebook.
Choose an early flight
Nastro recommends booking early morning flights if possible, as they are generally less likely to be delayed. Travelers should also choose direct flights if available. Direct flights reduce the risk of missing your connecting flight. Early morning flights are generally less crowded, which can help travelers find space in their overhead bins and avoid checked bag fees.
Therefore, to reduce travel costs, experts recommend being flexible with your travel dates, tracking fare deals, booking directly with airlines, and choosing early direct flights.
