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The best and worst times to book a vacation in 2020

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Beach, Thulusdhoo, Male, Maldives (Getty Images)
Beach, Thulusdhoo, Male, Maldives (Getty Images)

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We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Now is the best time to score the biggest deals on flights for March Break. Whether you’re looking to escape the cold or want to visit family across the country, fares are at their lowest three to four weeks before you plan to travel.

While many vacation travellers like to book their flight several months in advance, this approach can be more expensive. A report conducted by Skyscanner, a company leading the global transformation towards modern and sustainable travel, reveals that Canadians could save more than 20 per cent on international vacations when booking in February. It is also recommended to travel domestically during the off-season (January and February), when you can save up to 19 per cent when compared to travel in July or August, the most expensive months.

ALSO SEE: The best March Break vacation deals in Canada - starting at just $187

"As a traveller-first company, we pay close attention to what is happening in the industry so we can help Canadians make informed travel decisions," said Juliano Lopez, head of Research & Insights at Skyscanner. "Our data shows that Canadians can get great savings if they book right now – whether it's for an extended trip abroad or a weekend away in a neighbouring province."

To score the cheapest deal, Skyscanner recommends booking on a Sunday for domestic flights. Data shows that day has replaced Tuesdays, commonly thought to be the cheapest day to book. Conversely, Friday is the most expensive day to book flights within Canada, while Monday is when you'll find the most expensive international flights. For those travelling abroad, score the best deal on Thursday.

On the other hand, waiting to book your hotel stays until the last minute can cut into your potential savings. Booking your room one to two weeks in advance costs an average of 20 to 25 per cent more. According to Skyscanner, booking your hotel on a Tuesday is best for domestic stays, but the most expensive for international hotels. Expect to save 10 per cent on Canadian hotels and spend 11 per cent more for other locations if you choose to book on a Tuesday. If you're planning to stay abroad, book on a Sunday to save 11 per cent.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy three days in New York or a week in Cancun, Hawaii or across Canada, we’ve rounded up the best travel deals you can score right now. Hurry, these low prices won’t last forever!

Sky Scanner — Stay at Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel Collection for as low as $305 a night.

WestJet — The airline’s Birthday Sale is in full swing with celebratory savings for you! Book today and save on travel to over 100 destinations.

Air Canada — Book flights from Canada to the Bahamas from just $177.

Flight Hub — Travel to Mexico roundtrip for as low as $359.

Hotels.com — Save up to 64 per cent off on select all-inclusive resort stays in Cancun, Mexico.

Booking.com — Kick off the travel season right with 20 per cent off stays in Bangkok, Rome, Instanbul, Tokyo, Marrakesh and more during the site’s Early 2020 Deals event, which will run through Mar. 31.

Priceline — Stay big and save bigger while discovering the rich history, vibrant culture, and meeting warm people in Puerto Rico. Book now and score your third and/or fourth night free at various select fan-favourite hotels.

Air Transat — Book a roundtrip flight to Florida for as low as $379! Take advantage of deals on flights to the USA, Europe and sun destinations, whether for a last-minute getaway or an upcoming vacation.

Expedia - Score up to 40 per cent off hotels at fantastic beach destinations across Cancun, Punta Cana, Playa del Carmen and other Caribbean escapes. Some are offered for as low as $84 a night!

Redtag — Save up to 60 per cent off all-inclusive resort stays in sun destinations like Santa Maria, Varadero, Puerto Plata. Round-trip flights from Canada are also on major discount.

Holiday Inn — Book one of their March Break packages with breakfast for 2 adults, and kids under 12 are free. There are fun activities to be had at breakfast and dinner for the kids.

Sandals — Lock in your next vacation with flexible and affordable no-fee and no-interest payment plans! You can choose to pay the total amount of your luxury vacation in three to 24-month instalments when you book, or pay now and save up to 65 per cent off rates across select Caribbean getaways.

Marriott — Save up to 15 per cent on stays across the Caribbean and Latin America, and get up to $100 in resort credit.

Bahia Principe Hotels & Resorts —Now offering up to 30 per cent hotel and resort stays in Samana and Punta Cana, enjoy the sun, sand and sea during the remainder of their Winter Offers event.

itravel2000 — Save up to $1,500 per couple during the site’s March Break Vacation Sales event.

Hilton Hotels — Save up to 15 per cent on your upcoming travel. Book ahead and save.

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