Early route to cheap Christmas holidays

TRAVELLERS looking to save on their Christmas getaways should get organised now to avoid being stung by hefty charges for leaving it until the last minute.

New research by travel website Expedia has shown in the 90 days before the Christmas and new year period arrives, November is the cheapest month to book, but experts say planning further out than this can be cost-effective.

The site’s managing director, Michael Pearson, said the organised travellers can end up saving hundreds of dollars.

“Start your research now and have a look at a price you are comfortable with and try to lock it in as soon as possible,’’ he said.

“Typically, as seats run out on airlines they will yield up to higher fare classes, which can result in higher costs.”

He suggests always considering package deals with flights and accommodation included, and to look at flying at less popular times, including on Christmas Day.

Jetsetters Sophie Churchland, 26, and her partner Jay Yeomans, 27, right, have already booked their Christmas getaway to Japan.

They are going skiing with six family members and Ms Churchland said planning well ahead paid off.

“We booked our flights, accommodation and all our internal travel in about May and we searched for the cheapest prices possible,’’ she said.

“Flight-wise we chose the longest layover and the cheapest airline to get there and I did plenty of research before I went ahead and booked.”

Consumer finance expert Heidi Armstrong said for jetsetters to get decent value for money at peak holiday times it pays to be organised.

“If you do plan ahead you have way more options and you also can find the best deal,’’ she said.

“Also, if you just talk with family and friends in advance, they can give you valuable tips on where to go, but more importantly, where not to go.”