I'm seeing lots of headlines talking about travel chaos and mass flight cancellations this summer. I'm using my timeshare later this year - can I do anything to avoid issues?
The travel industry is experiencing unprecedented complications this year, as the world simultaneously attempts to recover from the pandemic and continues to embrace "revenge travel" since the beginning of 2022.
We previously reported on airline complications during spring break, when "National Unmasking Day" occurred and airlines saw the first notable spike in travel bookings for the year. During that time, many airlines struggled to maintain consistent service and adequate staffing. Canceled or delayed flights, over-capacity issues, and difficulties finding alternative trips caused unhappy customers with ruined travel plans.
As we are now in the dead of summer 2022, we have seen that these service issues persist across nearly all airlines, with some standing out in the news more than others. The root of the issue is simply that there is an uptick in travel, all the while airports and airlines struggle to fully replenish staff since the layoffs and shortages of the pandemic.
Flights are still being canceled last minute, luggage is being lost at record rates in the US, and travelers are experiencing a previously unanticipated host of stressors related to planning their vacations.
So, what does this mean for timeshare owners-and more importantly, is there anything you can do to prepare for these inconveniences?
If you are locked into your week for the year, the stakes of your flight getting canceled are that much higher for your trip. Although there's not much any of us can do to fully prepare for or avoid the mass flight cancellations and volatility of the travel industry this year, here are some things to consider trying that may offer a modicum of protection:
Avoid Peak Travel Times
When selecting your week, whether it is to rent out on RedWeek or use yourself, avoid holidays and peak travel times whenever possible. Those are the times that are most likely to sell out flights and become overbooked and/or understaffed, and avoiding them altogether may spare you from a canceled or rescheduled flight. Read up on travel trends specific to your destination of choice, try to avoid weeks where there are tournaments or conventions that will likely contribute to travel spikes.
Examine Cancellation Policies
This is a great time to take extra care while reviewing and setting up cancellation policies for your timeshare, as well as for any flights you choose to book. Call your resort to see if they are offering any exceptions due to the current travel landscape, and hopefully you can extend that flexibility to prospect renters if possible as well.
Consider Drive-To Resorts
If you are still deciding where to go this summer and fall, this is a good time to consider domestic resorts you can drive to. With gas prices on the rise and flight availability in decline, a rental within reasonable driving distance is a particularly smart choice. If you're in the U.S., popular stateside destinations are Florida, California, South Carolina, and Arizona.
Pad Your Vacation Time
This is obviously not an available option to everyone — especially those who are only allotted a certain number of vacation days — but if you are able to book your flight a day or two before your resort check-in, it may be a wise option that could prevent a headache. If your flight does get delayed by a day, you won't be late for check-in. If your flight arrives on schedule, then you may have to find hotel accommodations for one night before you head to the resort. So, again, not an option for everyone, but it's a clever idea if you do have the flexibility!
Don't Check a Bag
Lastly, once you've got everything booked and you're ready to go on your trip, try not to check a bag right now. Not only is this a great travel tip regardless of what the current climate looks like, refraining from checking your bag will save you a particular kind of stress during this year's travel surge mayhem. Luggage is being lost at alarming rates this summer, and bringing only carry-on bags will prevent it from happening to you. If you must check a bag, consider purchasing an AirTag so that you can track your bag's location from your phone.
