Funjet Offers Tips on Best 2012 Travel Deals

Airline prices are projected to rise as much as 13 percent and popular destinations are booking up fast, Funjet Vacations reports, offering some tips for finding the best deals. Funjet also announces one of its biggest sales so far - the “Save Big or Stay Home” sale launches November 4 with offers on travel throughout 2012 to a variety of destinations and hotels.

Funjet's tips for consumers include:

1. Book early for ‘must haves’ – Travelers looking for specific hotels, room types or flight schedules should book now. Funjet Vacations has seen a dramatic rise in advance planning, with bookings for June and July 2012 up as much as 90 percent. As a result, the most popular hotels and routes are filling up fast on peak travel dates, especially for the Caribbean, Funjet says.

Those worried that prices may dip lower should take the insurance. Funjet’s travel protection insurance offers a guaranteed low price, in addition to the ability to cancel or reschedule for any reason with cash back and no fees to change. Funjet’s insurance provides medical, baggage and emergency coverage throughout the trip and hurricane benefits.

Consumers who want to lock in a price, but need a few months to pay should look for unique payment options. Funjet allows bookings with as little as $50 down per person (based on the flight type and distance) via 1-800-4FUNJET, Funjet says.

2. Shop by exclusives rather than dates – Most shoppers start with dates, but if they can be flexible they’ll find the most unique deals and sales. Travel providers like Funjet Vacations add exclusive deals from hotel partners all the time. Great examples are the new exclusive rates Funjet has on Grand Palladium Resorts, and its Funjet-only “Prestige Clubs” at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana and Beach Palace Cancun.

Also, some vacation providers like Funjet buy out entire airplanes to provide exclusive non-stops between their most popular origins and destinations. This year, Funjet tripled its charter air service to the Caribbean due to increased demand. Check multiple departure and arrival date combinations to find these non-stop exclusive routes, Funjet reports.

3. Look for ‘flash deal’ travel dates and guarantees – Many travel providers offer ‘flash deals,’ or significant discounts on packages for a limited time, but often those deals can come with very limited travel windows. While travelers can get amazing prices if they can make a purchase on the fly, they should look for programs like Funjet’s new “Daily Deals,” which often boast more attractive travel dates and a price guarantee.

4. Widen your horizons – The most popular destinations tend to book quickly, resulting in higher prices. Lesser-recognized destinations in the same regions can offer similar experiences and attractive flights.

For instance, while looking at Jamaica or Punta Cana, consider the Bahamas, Exumas or even Panama and Costa Rica. The Bahamas currently has an air credit that gives travelers up to $400 back for choosing that destination. While all of Mexico remains a good value, the western coast offers some great Funjet exclusives, not to mention the ocean sunsets. For popular domestic destinations such as Las Vegas and Orlando, consider staying a little farther away from attractions and driving in. Funjet’s Florida Family Fun Sale helps by providing discounts on family-sized car rentals. Popular theme park tickets and shows can still be added to vacation packages for drive-in areas.

In addition to being a travel expert, Funjet Vacations offers 24/7 customer service with agents available to bring peace of mind before, during and after travel, Funjet says. Funjet also notes it has unique tours and “add-on” options, including fast and easy express transport to and from the airport. Travel protection and ground transportation can be added to vacation packages during the booking process.

Visit www.Funjet.com