Budget Singapore. How to find a travel bargain

With the internet at our fingertips it should be easy to get the best holiday deal around with just the click of a mouse – right?

But, like many things in life, it pays to know what you’re looking for. The travel experts at Budget Direct Insurance offer some hot tips to get ahead of the crowd and find that travel bargain.

Getting a cheap deal isn’t all about getting there early or late, it’s actually about regularly checking prices and being flexible.

1. It’s all about timing

Peak times means just that and last minute travel plans during this period will always be tricky.

If you have to delay booking try to start checking prices at least 6 weeks in advance.

Hot Tip Considered travelling on the actual day of a Singapore public holiday. This is an unpopular day to travel, meaning it’s generally cheaper with more availability.

Try to be flexible with your dates, websites for most budget airlines let you check the prices for a range of dates.

Try also to be flexible with your destination. Hong Kong and Phuket are always popular; look at  destinations you may not have considered before. Check prices in business type hotels or in CBD areas. At weekends and holiday times these places are quieter and many hotels will discount to secure your business.

2. Go with the currency flow

Check out places where currencies have dipped or stayed low against the Singapore dollar, you may suddenly get whole lot more for your money. A few years ago Australia felt very expensive when you picked up the tab in a restaurant, now, not so much. Likewise, trips to Russia, South Africa, Japan, HK, Vietnam and Malaysia are reasonable right now. 

Hot Tip According to the Straits Times Business news* the Malaysian ringgit has been the worst- performing currency in Asia against the Singapore dollar this year. A last minute trip over the border may be just up your street, relax on a sandy beach or soak up the cooler climes in the Cameron Highlands.

You may want to put a trip to the US on the back burner, as the dollar strengthens it's looking like a more costly option.

3. Always ask

If you don’t ask you won’t get – comparison and booking websites are useful but check prices with the hotel or resort direct. Give them a call, or drop them an email and ask for their best price. They may be in the mood to do you a deal.

Hot Tip Asking for an upgrade at a hotel or on an airline is always worth it, but these days harder and harder to get. If it’s not going for free, ask how much for an upgrade, especially when demand for business seats or pricier rooms is low.

Sign up for newsletters and price alerts from travel websites and airlines and be the first to hear about offers. The early bird catches the worm!

Check out our next blog for useful websites, apps and travel companies to help you find a travel bargain.

Wherever you go, whatever you do, remember it’s vital to have good travel cover.
Check out Budget Direct Insurance for your best deal
*www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/how-singdollar-will-fare-against-other-currencies-in-2016