You are more than ready to pack your bags and experience what the continent of Europe has to offer. But there is the tricky matter of booking your flight which, these days, has become something of an art. Finding the best flight at an ideal price depends in part on your timing.
When booking a flight to Europe, keep the season in mind. This will have an effect on the price of your flight. In general, the high point of the tourist season in Europe lasts from June to July. Flight prices tend to be more expensive at these times, as well as during holidays. Lower flight prices can be found during the off-peak travel seasons of spring and fall. Not only will you save on airfare, but you will be able to beat the throngs of tourist traffic and endure less competition when reserving a hotel room.
It is never a good idea to book at the last minute. The closer you get to your prospective travel date, the higher the prices. At the same time, you are liable to shell out more for airfare if you book too far in advance. It is best instead to find a happy medium. As a rule of thumb, book at least three weeks before your departure date. Peak travel seasons may require that you book at least six weeks in advance. For those who have flexible dates, booking at the very last minute may get you a deal on a flight, though this is not to be relied upon and certainly not a viable option for everybody.
While there are guidelines one can follow as to when you should book a European vacation, there are no hard-and-fast rules. It is important to be vigilant in regards to flight prices. Do your research. Spend time comparing flight prices on websites such as Vayama and Expedia. Visit the websites of the airlines directly as some airfare sales may only be advertised there. Students will benefit from STA Travel and Student Universe, which offer significant discounts on European flights.
