HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) — As the busy summer travel season gets underway, travel website Hopper says millions of Americans are choosing Europe as their vacation destination.
Europe is always a popular travel destination, but Hopper’s chief economist, Hayley Berg, says demand is even stronger in the summer.
“We expect roughly 57,000 flights to take off from U.S. airports to European centres,” Berg said.
Berg said bookings for trips to Europe surge at this time of year because children are out of school and most of Europe experiences its best summer weather.
“The good news for travelers to Europe is that prices are down about 16 percent compared to the same time last year,” Berg explained.
If you’re looking for a last-minute travel deal, Berg says you need to act fast and book now.
She suggests avoiding the most popular and expensive destinations, such as London, Rome and especially Paris, which is hosting the Olympics later this month, and instead opting for more off-the-beaten-path cities, she says.
“I recommend Reykjavik, Copenhagen and Stockholm. All three are under $500 or $600 round trip from the U.S. this summer,” Berg added. “The weather will be a little milder even during the hottest months, and they’ll definitely be less crowded.”
Berg added that one of the best ways to save money is to fly during the week.
“If you can leave on a Tuesday or Wednesday and return early in the week, you can save about $400 per ticket,” Berg said. “Avoid leaving on a Friday or Saturday, when they’re the most expensive.”
If you have flexibility, consider moving your vacation to the end of August or early September.
“Traveling in late summer or early fall typically means prices are 30 percent lower,” Berg said, “so for flexible travelers, this is one way you can save big and get a better deal while staying in the region.”
