An increasing number of Americans are eagerly planning vacations in Europe this summer. However, experts are cautioning travelers to manage their expectations when it comes to flight prices and potential disruptions caused by extreme weather. Aviation firm Cirium has reported that there will be a near-record 51,000 flights from the US to Europe between June and August, with the highest number of seats booked since before the Covid-19 pandemic in 2018.
Although Americans have their sights set on European travel, prices have surged. According to travel website Hopper, the average cost of a roundtrip to Europe this summer is $1,032, which is a significant 35% increase compared to last year. Travel insurer Allianz Partner predicts a 55% increase in American travelers to Europe this year, following a remarkable 600% boost in the number of visitors between 2021 and 2022. The most popular destination for Americans is London, accounting for 25% of bookings, followed by Paris, Dublin, and Rome.
While the thirst for European travel is growing, driven in part by TikTok influencers sharing their trips on social media, it’s important to note that prices are also spiking. Travel website Kayak reports a 77% increase in searches for European travel this summer compared to last year. US carriers are taking advantage of this surge in demand and increasing transatlantic flights. However, if you decide to book a trip, experts advise being strategic about your timing. A study by online travel agent Expedia suggests that booking flights on a Sunday can save you up to 15% on airfare. On the other hand, booking on a Friday can increase costs by around 5% due to last-minute vacation planning by households for the weekend. Expedia’s study also reveals that the best day of the week to fly is Wednesday, offering savings of 10% on international travel and 15% on domestic flights. Booking flights at least six months in advance can save you an additional 10%.
Hayley Berg, lead economist at Hopper, advises travelers to consider connecting trips rather than filtering for nonstop flights only. For example, Icelandic airline Play offers low-cost flights from Boston and Washington DC with a layover in Reykjavik, providing access to various European destinations. Norse Atlantic Airways has recently launched flights between New York City and Rome, Italy.
However, it’s important to be aware of the potential for delays and disruptions. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects summer air travel volumes in 2023 to surpass pre-pandemic levels. This surge in demand, coupled with underfunded and understaffed systems, may lead to significant frustrations for travelers. Last summer, tens of thousands of flights were delayed or canceled, and delays have reached a ten-year high due to airlines struggling with staff shortages. Additionally, there is a risk of congestion at some European airports, such as Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, which limited passengers last year and plans to cap numbers again in 2023. To mitigate disruptions, it’s recommended to regularly check flight bookings, plan extra time at the airport, and consider TSA PreCheck for expedited security screening.
Extreme weather is another factor to consider. The European Environment Agency (EEA) warns that Europe’s weather is becoming more extreme, with heatwaves, droughts, floods, and forest fires becoming more frequent. Europe experienced its hottest summer on record in 2022, with extreme heatwaves and drought affecting the continent. Travelers should check for weather warnings at their destinations and be prepared for potential impacts on swimming pools, fountains, and lakes due to water shortages. Considering less popular destinations that are not overwhelmed by excessive tourism could be a wise choice.
In summary, as more Americans plan vacations in Europe this summer, it’s important to anticipate higher flight prices and potential disruptions due to extreme weather and increased travel demand. By strategically booking flights on certain days of the week and in advance, considering connecting trips, and being prepared for delays, travelers can make the most of their European adventures. Additionally, monitoring weather conditions, choosing less popular destinations, and being mindful of environmental impacts can contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience.
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