Strategies for Finding Affordable Flights to College and University Visits
by Rick Seaney
As you prepare to explore colleges and universities with your teen to determine the ideal match, whether they have been accepted or are still considering their options, it’s essential to minimize travel costs. Here are effective tips to achieve that.
If you’re planning to drive, you’re in luck—gas prices are low. This trend also benefits flyers, as reduced oil prices contribute to stable airfare rates compared to last year. Below are additional ways to save on your travel expenses:
Steer clear of peak travel seasons.
Visiting schools during the summer months can be costly, as this period sees a surge in prices due to high demand. Furthermore, a quieter campus environment may not provide your child with an authentic impression of the institution. Be mindful that domestic flight prices start to increase around June 10 for summer travel, so aim to book your trips before that date or after August 23 when more affordable fall fares become available. Notable dates include March 16, the last opportunity for budget winter airfares, as prices tend to rise after March 17 and again on May 17.
Limit your travel to less expensive days.
The priciest days to fly are often the ones you initially considered: Fridays and Sundays. Airlines are aware that many travelers choose these days, leading to higher fares. Instead, seek better deals on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.
Consider a bit of inconvenience for cost savings.
You can apply this in two ways:
First, always assess the costs of both direct and connecting flights; sometimes opting for less straightforward routes can yield significant savings.
Second, compare prices across various nearby airports. For instance, if your child is looking to attend Dartmouth, the nearest airports are in Manchester, NH, and Burlington, VT. However, don’t overlook larger airports like Boston Logan; the potential savings might justify the additional travel time. As a helpful tip, many colleges, including Dartmouth, provide shuttle services from these airports to campus.
Rick Seaney is a travel authority and CEO of FareCompare, a website designed to assist travelers in locating the best airfare deals. FareCompare also offers user-friendly resources to help individuals save throughout their travel experiences. Visit farecompare.com/#quote
