When to book flight?

[dobball23]

My wife and I are planning a trip to Disney World next July (2007). It looks like flights for next July will be available to book next month. Should I go ahead and book one right away? OR would it be better to see what an airline like JetBlue offers (they are only into next Feb. so far)? Would it hurt to wait until the fall to make flight arrangements? Any suggestions? I would like to get the lowest price possible (wouldn't we all!).

 

[beccasmom]

You can book now if you choose, although personally I would wait. If you have JetBlue and/or SWA in your area, they would undoubtedly be your best bet for good fares, although you'll need to wait until schedules are posted. Most of their competitors will match their fares eventually. You have time. What I would do is get a feel for what your market will bear in terms of fares so you'll know a good deal when it appears. Get on the email lists for the airlines you're considering so you'll see sale information when it's released. Hook up with Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia for their data. Download DING! from SWA. Jet Blue and SWA are both great airlines (Jet Blue has a slight edge, IMHO); you can't go wrong with either.

 

[lovesmurfs]

If it's not around a holiday, I'd wait until February or March (before the summer fares go up). For our trip, I caved without waiting to see what SW rates would be for December 14-23 -- I'm sure I'll be kicking myself.

Because of the 23rd being officially holiday travel time, I didn't want to take a chance, which was probably pretty dumb, but I didn't want to screw up our vacation because of flights. The peace of mind knowing the tickets are bought is great, but the masochist in me keeps checking to see what the fares are.