Planning a vacation can be exciting but also daunting, especially when trying to keep costs in check. Recently, I had my heart set on a trip to China, but plans changed. Instead, my friend and I decided on the Philippines—a destination known for its stunning beaches and unique wildlife like tarsiers. Here’s how I managed to make the most of my travel budget by booking flights smartly.
Using Aeroplan Miles:
Initially, I planned to use my Aeroplan miles to cover the flight costs, given the distance from Newfoundland to the Philippines. Aeroplan is great for cutting down flight expenses, but it’s not entirely free. Despite using miles, I still faced significant taxes and fees. In my case, the total came to a whopping $990, which was a surprise considering the purpose of using miles was to save money.
Exploring Alternatives:
Curious about other options, I decided to explore booking one-way flights instead of a traditional round-trip using Aeroplan. To my surprise, booking two separate one-way flights—one outbound and one return—yielded unexpected savings. While a round-trip Aeroplan booking required 90,000 miles and $990 in taxes and fees, booking two separate one-way flights totaled just $590 in fees, with miles halved for each leg.
The Cost-Saving Strategy
Booking two one-way flights not only saved me money but also provided flexibility. Each one-way flight required fewer miles and significantly lower taxes and fees compared to a round-trip booking. This discovery allowed me to optimize my travel budget without compromising on flight choices or travel dates.
Tips for Booking Flights Smartly
Next time you’re planning a trip, whether using rewards points or paying cash, consider these tips:
- Explore One-Way Options: Sometimes booking two one-way flights can be more cost-effective than a round-trip, especially when using reward points like Aeroplan miles.
- Compare Fees: Taxes and fees can vary widely between airlines and booking methods. Doing a thorough comparison can lead to surprising savings.
- Stay Flexible: Booking flights separately can offer more flexibility in travel plans, allowing you to mix and match airlines or take advantage of seat sales.
Conclusion
By thinking outside the box and exploring different booking options, I managed to save nearly 40% on flight expenses to the Philippines. Whether you’re planning a reward flight or purchasing tickets outright, taking the time to research and compare can pay off in significant savings. Remember, a little extra effort upfront can make your travel dreams more affordable and accessible.
