With the holiday shopping season right around the corner, you may be wondering if you can score travel deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. If you’re looking to book a hotel, flight or rental car, read on to find out if Booking.com and other major online travel agencies offer Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Booking.com does not offer specific Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales. However, you can often find great hotel deals around that time by being flexible with your travel dates and destinations.
What is Black Friday?
Black Friday is a popular shopping event that takes place every year on the day after Thanksgiving in the United States. It marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season and is known for its massive discounts and deals on various products and services.
The name “Black Friday” originated in the 1960s and was used to describe the chaotic traffic and large crowds that would flock to stores on this day. Over the years, Black Friday has become a cultural phenomenon, not only in the US but also in other parts of the world.
History of Black Friday
The history of Black Friday can be traced back to the 19th century when Thanksgiving Day became an official holiday in the US. As people started taking time off from work and schools, it became a popular day for shopping.
However, it wasn’t until the 1950s and 1960s that the term “Black Friday” started being used to describe the day after Thanksgiving. The term was initially used by Philadelphia police to refer to the heavy traffic and chaos caused by shoppers.
Eventually, retailers adopted the term and started offering special promotions and discounts to attract customers.
Black Friday Traditions
Black Friday is known for its unique traditions that have evolved over time. One of the most common traditions is the early morning “doorbuster” sales, where retailers offer limited-time deals and discounts to early bird shoppers.
These sales often start as early as midnight or even on Thanksgiving evening, leading to long lines and eager shoppers waiting outside stores. Another tradition is the use of promotional flyers and advertisements to announce the special deals available on Black Friday.
In recent years, online shopping has also become a significant part of Black Friday, with many retailers offering exclusive online discounts and promotions.
Why Black Friday is Popular for Shopping
Black Friday has gained popularity as a shopping event due to several factors. Firstly, it offers consumers the opportunity to save money on their holiday shopping. With retailers offering significant discounts and deals, shoppers can find great bargains on a wide range of products.
Secondly, Black Friday has become a social event, with friends and family members often going shopping together to take advantage of the deals. Additionally, the thrill of finding a great deal and the excitement of being part of a bustling shopping environment contributes to the appeal of Black Friday.
However, it is important to note that the popularity of Black Friday has also raised concerns about consumerism and the impact it has on the environment and workers.
Does Booking.com Have Black Friday Sales?
When it comes to Black Friday sales, many people wonder if Booking.com, one of the largest online travel agencies, offers any special deals during this time. Let’s take a closer look at whether or not they participate in the Black Friday frenzy.
No Dedicated Black Friday or Cyber Monday Sales
Unfortunately, Booking.com does not typically have dedicated Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales. Unlike some other retailers who offer significant discounts on specific products or services during these shopping holidays, Booking.com focuses more on providing year-round competitive prices for their customers.
However, this doesn’t mean you won’t be able to find great deals on Booking.com around the Black Friday period. While they may not have any specific promotions on these days, they often have ongoing discounts and offers available throughout the year that can still help you save money on your bookings.
Great Deals Can Still Be Found Around That Time
During the holiday season, many hotels and accommodations offer special rates and packages to attract travelers. This means that even though Booking.com may not have dedicated Black Friday sales, you can still find fantastic deals on their platform during this time.
It’s worth keeping an eye out for any promotions or discounts that Booking.com may offer during the Black Friday period. They may have limited-time offers or exclusive deals that can help you save on your next vacation or business trip.
Additionally, it’s always a good idea to compare prices and check multiple travel websites when looking for the best deals. Websites like Expedia, Hotels.com, and Trivago can also provide competitive rates and discounts during the Black Friday period.
So, while Booking.com may not have specific Black Friday sales, don’t let that discourage you from checking their website for great deals. Remember to be flexible with your travel dates and destinations, and you may just find an amazing offer that suits your needs.
Tips for Finding Travel Deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Be Flexible With Dates and Destinations
When looking for travel deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it’s important to be flexible with your travel dates and destinations. Airlines and hotels often offer discounted rates for specific dates or destinations, so being open to different options can greatly increase your chances of finding a great deal.
Consider traveling during off-peak times or to less popular destinations to snag even better discounts.
Check Flash Sales and Limited-Time Offers
Many travel websites and providers offer flash sales and limited-time offers during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These deals are often time-sensitive, so it’s important to stay vigilant and check websites frequently for updates.
Keep an eye out for discounted flights, hotel stays, vacation packages, and other travel-related services. Some websites may even offer additional perks or discounts for booking during this time period.
Sign Up For Email Alerts From Travel Sites
To stay up to date with the latest travel deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday, it’s a good idea to sign up for email alerts from your favorite travel sites. These alerts will notify you of any special promotions, discounts, or exclusive offers that may be available.
By being on the mailing list, you’ll have a better chance of scoring a great deal before it’s gone.
Use Coupon Codes and Cashback
When booking your travel on Black Friday or Cyber Monday, don’t forget to take advantage of coupon codes and cashback offers. Many travel websites and booking platforms offer additional discounts or cashback incentives for using specific coupon codes or booking through certain cashback websites.
Make sure to do your research and find out if any coupon codes or cashback offers are available for the travel site you’re using.
Compare Prices Across Sites
One of the most important tips for finding travel deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday is to compare prices across different websites. While one website may offer a great deal on flights, another may have better discounts on hotels or vacation packages.
By comparing prices, you can ensure that you’re getting the best possible deal. Don’t forget to also check the official websites of airlines and hotels, as they may have exclusive deals that aren’t available on third-party booking sites.
Remember, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are great opportunities to find amazing travel deals. By following these tips and staying informed, you’ll be able to save money on your next vacation or getaway.
Other Sites for Travel Deals
Expedia
Expedia is a popular travel website that offers a wide range of deals on flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages. It is known for its user-friendly interface and extensive search options, allowing travelers to easily find the best deals that suit their preferences and budget.
Expedia also provides customer reviews and ratings for hotels and attractions, helping travelers make informed decisions. With constant promotions and discounts, Expedia is definitely worth checking out when looking for travel deals.
Hotels.com
Hotels.com is another reliable platform for finding great travel deals. As the name suggests, it specializes in hotel bookings, offering a vast selection of accommodations worldwide. Hotels.com provides detailed information about each hotel, including amenities, photos, and guest reviews.
It also offers a rewards program where users can earn free nights after booking a certain number of stays. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, Hotels.com has something for every traveler.
Priceline
Priceline is a unique travel website that allows users to bid on hotel rooms, flights, and rental cars. Through their “Name Your Own Price” feature, travelers can submit a bid for a specific destination and travel dates. Priceline then works to find a hotel or airline willing to accept that price.
This can lead to significant savings, especially during peak travel seasons. Additionally, Priceline offers regular discounts and deals, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Vrbo
Vrbo, which stands for Vacation Rentals by Owner, is a platform that connects travelers with private homeowners who rent out their properties. It offers a wide range of vacation rentals, including beach houses, cabins, condos, and villas.
Vrbo allows travelers to search for accommodations based on their specific needs and preferences, such as number of bedrooms, amenities, and location. This gives travelers the opportunity to experience a more unique and personalized stay compared to traditional hotels.
While Booking.com is a well-known and reputable website for travel deals, it’s always a good idea to explore other options to ensure you’re getting the best possible deal. Expedia, Hotels.com, Priceline, and Vrbo are just a few examples of other websites that offer a variety of travel deals and accommodations.
By comparing prices and reading reviews, you can find the perfect travel deal that suits your needs and budget.
Maximize Savings With the Right Credit Card
Maximizing savings is always a top priority when it comes to booking travel. One effective way to save money is by using the right credit card. With the right credit card, you can take advantage of various travel rewards, points, and discounts offered by booking sites.
In this article, we will explore two types of credit cards that can help you maximize your savings when booking travel.
Cards With Travel Rewards and Points
If you are a frequent traveler or planning a trip, credit cards with travel rewards and points can be a fantastic option. These cards offer various benefits such as airline miles, hotel rewards, and other travel-related perks.
One popular credit card that offers great travel rewards is the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card. With this card, you can earn valuable Ultimate Rewards points for every dollar spent on travel and dining.
These points can be transferred to numerous airline and hotel partners, giving you plenty of options for redeeming them for free flights or hotel stays.
If you prefer a more flexible travel rewards program, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card might be the right choice for you. With this card, you earn miles on every purchase, and these miles can be redeemed for travel expenses such as flights, hotels, and rental cars.
The card also offers a generous sign-up bonus, making it even more appealing for frequent travelers.
Cards With Booking Site Discounts
If you frequently book your travel through online booking sites like Booking.com, Expedia, or Hotels.com, credit cards that offer discounts on these platforms can help you save significantly.
One such card is the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card. This card not only offers travel rewards but also provides an additional 10% customer points bonus when you have an active Bank of America checking or savings account.
These points can be redeemed for statement credits towards travel purchases, including bookings made through online travel agencies.
Another credit card to consider is the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card. While it is not specifically a travel-focused card, it offers a flat cash back rate on all purchases, including those made on booking sites.
This means you can earn cash back on your travel expenses, providing you with extra savings.
Remember, when choosing a credit card for booking travel, it’s essential to consider your spending habits, travel preferences, and the benefits offered by each card. By selecting the right credit card, you can make the most of your travel expenses and maximize your savings.
Conclusion
While Booking.com doesn’t offer specific Black Friday or Cyber Monday sales, you can often find great deals around that time by being flexible and doing some deal hunting across sites. Sign up for alerts, check for flash sales, and use promo codes to maximize your savings.
With some strategic planning, you can score major discounts on your next trip.
