The cost of travel rose more than 13% from June 2020 to June 2021, according to the U.S. Travel Association’s most recent travel price index. The figures also show a 3% rise in travel prices from June 2019 to June 2021. But as North Americans return to the skies, some for the first time since the pandemic started, many are wondering how they can plan a Belize vacation in the Caribbean without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best ways to score post-pandemic travel deals in Belize.
1. Find Cheap(er) Flights
Las Vegas, Nevada, USA – January 23rd, 2008: A Frontier Airlines Airbus A319-111 is approaching the runway for landing at Las Vegas – McCarran International Airport.
Once you find cheap flights out of your home airport, choose flexible dates that work best for your schedule. If you can search a range of stay lengths, then you are more likely to find a cheaper price. If you’re traveling internationally like to Belize, usually about two to eight months is the sweetest spot. Ready to get an even cheaper rate? It helps to book your trips during opposite seasons, like Belize’s rainy season which overlaps with its “slow” season for tourism.
Travel Tip: when booking a trip, flying out Tuesday or Wednesday tends to be the least expensive.
Keep your alerts on for flash sales by Southwest, which returns non-stop service to Belize on November 7, or the budget-friendly Frontier Airlines, which begins non-stop service to Belize on December 11.
2. Book in Shoulder Season
Photo Courtesy: ROEming Belize Travel Agency
Most Belize hotels lower their prices during this time since not many travelers are arriving in the country. Take advantage of these discounts and you’ll earn the title of savvy budget traveler in no time. Traveling during a traditional “shoulder season” means this period of time (from weeks up to months) between Belize’s traditional low and high season of tourism means extra deals. It’s much easier to stay on budget, there are fewer people, better access to popular attractions, and beyond. That is, without sacrificing good weather.
Travel Tip: Belize’s ‘shoulder season’ runs between August to October.
3. Keep an Eye Out for Value-Added Incentives
Copal Tree Lodge is the definition of agritourism-chic with its organic farm and 12,000 acre nature reserve.
And don’t be shy to ask if there are any upgrades available. Package deals and add-ons, like “Stay 3, get 1 night free”, may be the key to saving as travel continues to pick up. Not to mention, capacity restrictions could also turn out to be a benefit. For example, you’ll probably opt for a standard room at a non-discounted rate but who knows? You can score a free upgrade by just asking for it. The deluxe room may not be something you’d have splurged on, but if it’s available—your resort may surprise you.
Travel Tip: find promotional deals on resort and hotel stays here.
4. Remember That Flexible Booking Is a Deal In Itself
Step into San Pedro’s energy. Image courtesy ROEming Belize Travel Agency
It won’t be long before reduced hotel deposits and no change fees are a thing of the past. But for the time being, those still exist, so booking early and booking now is another critical way to save. Travel advisors are already seeing pricing increase for early 2022. If you’re looking for that last-minute trip, plan advance with a travel advisor (if need be) so that you can lock everything in now to ensure flexibility and lower fares.
Travel Tip: get the inside scoop from a local travel advisor here.
