When it comes to a holiday, we probably all want the same thing: hassle-free bookings, smooth journeys, and maybe even a sneaky (free) upgrade here and there.
So you’ll be pleased to hear some top tips on how to achieve your dream trip, from revealing the cheapest day to book your flights to how to lower your chances of a delay.
As well as that, there are some deals you need to know about, and some freebies you’d be silly not to pick up along the way. You’re welcome.
How to get a free upgrade and 7 other summer travel tips to know about
Booking flights
Pick the best dates
According to online travel agency Expedia, there are some stats to follow to find the best flight timings for you.
For one, you should aim to book your flights on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which could save you up to 28 per cent on the usual price.
But for your actual departure day, make it a Thursday, which is statistically the cheapest day to fly, while it is advised to avoid Sundays, which are typically the priciest.
If you like reading this: The DXB travel hacks you need to know about this summer
International flight bookings made two to five weeks before your date of departure are also likely to be cheaper than those made over 12 weeks in advance.
Be smart with your timings
Timings matter. Did you know that flights booked to depart at around noon or in the evening are less likely to be cancelled, so be sure to check when you book.
If you’re wondering when those golden hours are, try to look at flights that depart from 9am to 3pm or 9pm to 3am.
Pick the best location
You also want to check out your surrounding airports, and find out which is offering the best price.
For those living in Dubai, you could take off from DXB, Sharjah International Airport or even Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi pretty easily.
For example, Air Arabia have just launched flights to the Maldives from Sharjah for Dhs690 each way, so it’s always a great idea to shop around.
Upgrade your seat
Trying your luck at the check-in desk probably isn’t going to work, but there are some things you can do to make a seat in business or first class more likely.
For example, Emirates flyers should all download the Emirates Skywards App, as it will collect your air miles every time you fly and eventually give you an upgrade for free.
On the app, you should also set up automatic upgrades so that when they become available, you’ll automatically be upgraded to the next cabin class using your Skywards Miles.
Other airlines that offer loyalty rewards programmes includes British Airways (Executive Club), Air France-KLM (Flying Blue) and Lufthansa (Miles & More).
Remember, if there are only a few seats available for upgrades, then you’ll need to be on the ball when it comes to checking in at the desk early, or in advance at home. Good luck.
Airport tips
Look out for freebies
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The airport is usually packed with free treats, you just need to know where to find them.
If you’re heading through DXB Terminal 3 this summer, lookout for the Emirates ice-cream stands where you can grab a free scoop, or head to Fortnum and Mason for a free cookie and cup of tea.
Speaking of freebies, did you know many airlines will offer you a free stopover or hotel stay if you’re travelling on a connecting flight? From a night in Dubai to a day in Paris, browse all of the best deals here.
Check your credit card benefits
It’s always worth checking your credit card benefits before you head to the airport, especially when it comes to airport lounges.
As well as discounts you can redeem in certain restaurants, there are a host of DXB lounges that you can access for free if you have specific cards.
Register for Smart Gates
This DXB travel hack can let you swoon through passport control in seconds without getting out a single document. Operational for both departing and arriving passengers, simply register for Smart Gates online, then pass through the electronic gates by looking at the green light.
Open to UAE/GCC nationals, UAE residents and visa-on arrival guests with biometric passports, you should register in advance on the GDRFA website.
Hotel hacks
Have the best deals come to you
You don’t need to go searching for the best hotel deals. A lot of the time they’ll come straight to you — if you let them.
One way to ensure this is signing up to loyalty programmes. You can have discount codes, great rates and even VIP services all emailed directly to your inbox.
Signing up to hotel apps can also give you access to new deals, be sure to keep an eye out for those notifications popping up on a rogue Tuesday afternoon.
Finally, do your research and don’t settle on the first offer you see. If you’re looking for a quick stay-cay in Dubai, check out all of the best deals across the UAE — because you can even get hotels like the Burj Al Arab at 20 per cent off right now (what a deal right?)
You might also like: Here’s how to get a free night’s stay at Atlantis The Royal in 2024
Try for an upgrade
The odds won’t always be in your favour, but there’s a few things you can do to raise your chances.
Most hotels host their premium rooms on the higher floors, so requesting a high floor is always a good idea.
Asking for a corner room is also likely to get you a larger space, and it never hurts to mention if you’re travelling for a special occasion either.
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