It’s back! Our 2016 Summer Travel Hacker Guide is here to kickstart your travel planning as the heat turns up. Whether you’re dreaming about a European escape or just need a quick weekend getaway, we’ve got the travel tips and trends you need to start mapping out your next adventure. With ten top destinations in four key categories, we’ve used our wealth of travel data to unlock the median airfare, median hotel rates and when to book recommendations for this summer’s hottest destinations.
So start prepping those mai-tais and packing your carry-on, it’s time to plan your summer vacation.
With the Games in town it’s no surprise that Rio de Janeiro earns the #1 spot as our top trending city this summer. There’s been an incredible 127% increase in interest over the last year, showing that travelers are going for the gold. According to our data, you can book your airfare only 2 weeks in advance of your departure and still manage to snag a decent ticket price. However, everything changes if you’re planning to head there in August: expect to see median airfare and hotel rates almost double!
If it seems like everyone on your friend list is going to Reykjavik, there’s a reason for it. This hot Northern city boasts an active cultural scene and trending foodie movement. In fact, search activity to Iceland’s capital has increased 75% since last year! With median airfare peaking in July, your best bet for lower median flight costs and hotel rates is to travel in May or September. Just be sure to book at least 10 weeks in advance to secure the best rates. Bonus: the dollar is strong in the Eurozone, making it the perfect season to add these destinations to your list.
When you travel below the Equator, seasons get flipped. So destinations in the Southern Hemisphere are experiencing their winter while those in the Northern Hemisphere are just strapping on their flip flops. If you’re looking to straddle the seasons, destinations on this list can help you beat the heat. Rio de Janeiro once again claims the top spot, but there’s more to this Brazilian metropolis than sporting events. Top recommended hotels are close to the beaches, and if you’re more concerned about per diem costs, median hotel rates appear lowest in June at $142/night.
Working for the weekend? A quick stint in New Orleans could be just what you need to combat Spontaneous Wanderlustis (or whatever other lack-of-travel ailment afflicts you). August travel will see the lowest median hotel rates ($163/night) and one of the lowest median airfares ($312). Just be sure you’re booking about 6 weeks ahead, as that seems to be the sweet spot for snagging great deals.
Like what you see but want to learn more? Check out our full guide for the where, when and how much of summer 2016 travel and start planning your next escape. #TravelProblemSolved
