The countdown has begun to (arguably) the biggest sale day of the year for everything from electronics to fashion and, yes, even travel: the annual Black Friday Sale (29 November 2024).
If you’re a budget-savvy traveller, there will be loads of great travel deals on offer. But travel expenditure is significantly more than a new pair of shoes or even a new flat screen TV. So, with such high investment stakes; how do you choose the best Black Friday Travel Deal based on your preferences, budget and schedule? We’ve got some tips to help you navigate the overwhelming array of options and pick the perfect Black Friday travel package.
Before diving into the whirlwind of Black Friday Travel Deals, take a moment to understand your travel style. Are you a luxury traveller looking for an all-inclusive resort, or do you prefer off-the-beaten-path adventures? Knowing whether you seek relaxation or exploration will help you filter the best packages.
All-Inclusive Resorts: Ideal for those who want everything taken care of, from meals to entertainment (have a look at these great all-inclusive Black Friday deals from Beachcomber).
Guided Tours: Perfect for cultural explorers who enjoy learning from local experts (get early access to Trafalgar Tours' Black Friday Sale on guided tours here).
Adventure Packages: Great for thrill-seekers wanting activities like hiking, diving, or zip-lining.
City Breaks: A fantastic choice for urban enthusiasts who love museums, restaurants, and nightlife.
One of the keys to securing a great travel deal is to set a realistic budget. Remember that travel packages can vary significantly, with options ranging from budget-friendly getaways to luxury holidays.
Factor in Extras: Check if the package includes flights, transfers, meals, drinks and other extras, such as water and land sports, and airport/hotel transfers. A lower-priced deal might seem appealing, but hidden costs can add up.
Look for Flexible Payment Options: Some travel companies offer instalment plans, making it easier to afford a higher-value trip. For example, Trafalgar Tours only requires a R3,000 deposit to secure bookings on its Black Friday deals, with the balance payable 120 days before departure. If in doubt, always ask your trusted travel agent for payment details.
Timing is everything when planning a holiday. Are you flexible with your dates, or do you have a specific window for travel? The more flexible you are, the easier it is to grab a deal.
Peak Season vs. Off-Season: Black Friday deals can include both peak and off-season packages. While traveling off-peak (like during shoulder seasons) can mean fewer crowds and lower prices, some destinations are not great during off-peak times due to bad weather. So always be sure to do your research and know beforehand whether you’re keen on travelling off-peak or not before booking that low-cost Black Friday Travel Deal.
Plan Ahead for Major Holidays: If you’re looking to travel around popular times like Christmas or Easter, make sure the Black Friday Travel Deal doesn’t have black-out periods that exclude these popular travel times.
Choosing a destination is often the most exciting part. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons of each destination offered in a deal.
What’s the Weather Like? A discounted Caribbean package might sound perfect, but remember to check if it’s hurricane season.
Are There Travel Restrictions? Post-pandemic travel requires some research into entry requirements, especially for international trips.
What Activities Are Available? Ensure that the destination matches the type of activities you’re looking for, whether it’s relaxation, adventure or culture.
When comparing deals, it’s easy to be swayed by the lowest Rand price advertised, but value matters just as much as price.
Inclusions: A package with flights, hotel and meals may offer better value than one that only covers accommodation, like these all-inclusive fly-in packages from Beachcomber.
Exclusive Perks: Some Black Friday deals come with added benefits like skip-the-line access to attractions, complimentary excursions, or spa credits.
Quality of Accommodation: Be sure to read reviews of the hotels included to ensure they meet your expectations.
With so many new players offering deals, it’s essential to book with a reputable travel provider to avoid scams or disappointments.
Check Reviews: Look up customer feedback and ratings on travel review sites.
Verify Package Details: Ensure that terms and conditions are clearly stated, including cancellation policies and any hidden fees.
Seek Recommendations: Trustworthy recommendations from friends, travel blogs, or well-known travel agencies can make a big difference.
Black Friday travel deals are limited-time offers and can sell out fast, so you need to be ready to snag the best deals.
Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to newsletters and alerts from travel agencies to get notified of early releases and flash sales.
Have Your Details Ready: Ensure your payment method and personal details are up-to-date to avoid delays during checkout.
Know Your Non-Negotiables: Have a clear idea of your must-haves, like nonstop flights or family-friendly amenities, so you don’t hesitate when the perfect package pops up.
Choosing the perfect Black Friday travel package comes down to knowing what you want, setting a clear budget and acting swiftly when you find the right deal. By following this guide, you’ll be ready to navigate the sea of discounts confidently and book a trip that fits your needs and budget.
Most importantly, contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for the latest up-to-date Black Friday Travel Deals coming your way this November. Find your nearest Sure Travel Agent here.
Sure Travel and its partners are offering an array of Black Friday Travel Deals. Check out the latest deals here.
Here are a few highlights:
Three Nights at the 5-star Letamo at Qwabi Private Game Reserve, Waterberg, from R 11,655 p/p sharing. This self-drive package from Thompsons Tours includes: 3 Nights accommodation in a Deluxe Room Breakfast; afternoon tea and dinner daily; House selection of beverages (soft drinks, house wines, local brand spirits and beers); 2 Game Drives per day; Tourism Levy. Full package details and Ts and Cs here.
Trafalgar Tours' 8-Night Spanish Wonder Tour, was R49,600 NOW priced from R42,160 per person sharing. Includes 8 nights accommodation, 8 breakfasts and 4 dinners. Full package details and Ts and Cs here.
Trafalgar Tours' 10-Night European Splendour Tour, was R70,800 NOW priced from R62,300 per person sharing. Includes 10 nights accommodation, 10 breakfasts and 4 dinners. Full package details and Ts and Cs here.
Trafalgar Tours' 12-Night Bohemian Highlights Tour, was R70,200 NOW priced from R61,776 per person sharing. Includes 12 nights accommodation, 12 breakfasts and 7 dinners. Full package details and Ts and Cs here.
Trafalgar Tours' 8-Night Best of Egypt Tour, was R65 100 NOW priced from R56 327 per person sharing. Includes 8 nights accommodation, 8 breakfasts, 4 Lunches and 4 Dinners. Full package details and Ts and Cs here.
Trafalgar Tours' 13-Night Balkan Adventure Tour, was R68,500 NOW priced from R60,280 per person sharing. Includes 12 nights accommodation, 13 breakfasts and 7 dinners. Full package details and Ts and Cs here.
Visit our online booking platform for more Black Friday Travel Deals and/or contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent for latest specials.
