There are moments in the market when it's worth acting quickly, and this is one of them. The current drop in the dollar exchange rate opens an opportunity that won't last forever – flights for Passover or next summer vacations at especially low prices.
Why now? This combination doesn't happen all the time. On one hand, the dollar exchange rate is low. On the other hand, these are bookings months in advance – when demand is not at its peak and airlines are eager to fill seats.
In the tourism market, it is estimated that this combination of a low exchange rate and the possibility of early booking allows airlines and travel agencies to offer particularly attractive deals. While prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches, right now it is possible to find tickets to popular destinations in Europe and the Far East at prices tens of percent lower compared to last year.
How much can you really save
Mor Papkin, CEO of Trip Guaranty, which offers flight cancellation insurance for any reason, explains: "One of the most important considerations for the Israeli consumer when purchasing a flight is the price. Right now we can point to an opportunity in the market. Booking tickets early for Passover or next summer, combined with a relatively low dollar rate, can provide significant savings that reach thousands of shekels for a family."
Her recommendation: "Purchase tickets as early as possible – to secure the low price, and add a low-cost insurance product that allows cancellation due to any change in plans."
Data shows that prices for flights to popular destinations are currently tens of percent cheaper than in-season rates.
Here are some examples:
Tbilisi for Passover: An Israir flight from March 29 – April 3 costs $234. In-season, prices reach $500 – a gap of more than 50%.
London at the end of August: A Wizz Air flight for the last week of August costs $370, compared to in-season prices above $600.
Prague for Rosh Hashanah: A Smart Wings flight costs $305, whereas in-season prices are expected to be over $550 – almost double.
Thailand during the High Holidays (Tishrei): An El Al flight costs $1,200. In-season prices reach around $1,700.
New York during the High Holidays (Tishrei): An El Al flight costs $1,400, while in-season prices reach about $1,800.
This opportunity won't wait. As the flight date approaches, prices only rise. Demand increases, seats sell out, and airlines know that those left without a ticket are willing to pay more. In addition, the dollar exchange rate constantly changes. What is true today may not be the case in a month or two.
The conclusion:Those planning a vacation for Passover or next summer who can decide on dates now – this is the time to act. The combination of a low dollar and early booking can save thousands of shekels for a family – money that can be spent on the vacation itself instead of the flight ticket.