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After price explosion and strike chaosRTL travel expert advises summer vacationers: Don't wait to book!
If you want to go to the Mediterranean in summer, you should hurry up now
vco, dpa, Clara Margais
First the Iran war, then the kerosene shock, now also the strike alarm at Lufthansa:
If you want to go on vacation this year, you need strong nerves – and the right plan. Travel expert Ralf Benkö explains why the crisis is affecting everyone and why you shouldn't wait to book if you want a reasonably priced summer vacation.
Summer vacation 2026: Book quickly now or would you rather wait? Travel expert explains what you should really do
You haven't booked yet and are wondering whether you can still travel with a clear conscience during this crisis? Travel expert Ralf Benkö says clearly: Waiting is the worse strategy this year. “If you haven’t booked yet, you should really look around relatively quickly to see whether there are options to book at a reasonable price before the price increases take full effect,” says Benkö.
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Airlines have already admitted that they will pass on the increased kerosene costs – so it will probably no longer be cheaper. For you this means: If you want to go to the western Mediterranean or the Canary Islands during your summer holidays, don't hesitate any longer. “We see that destinations like Mallorca and the Canary Islands are in significantly higher demand, flights were already busier than usual in April, and airlines have used additional planes,” explains Benkö.
Last minute bargains are probably rare
If you arrive late, you not only pay more, but you also have less choice when it comes to flight times and hotels – classic last-minute bargains have become rare in this situation, according to several travel experts.
Not booked yet? This is what you should do now:
– Don't wait, just look: Check prices now – according to experts, it's unlikely to get any cheaper.
– Save popular destinations first: Mallorca, the Canary Islands and the western Mediterranean are in high demand and flights fill up quickly.
– Choose Flex tariff: Book a package trip with a flex guarantee or a flexible tariff so that you can rebook or cancel free of charge.
– Check travel dates: If possible, fly outside of the absolute peak holidays and during the week – this often brings the price down.
– Have plan B in mind: Consider a second destination or alternative airport in case flights are canceled or suddenly become too expensive.
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Ralf Benkö's compromise tip for anyone unsure: Book early, but with a safety net. “If you’re hesitant, you should think about a flex guarantee for package holidays – it’s often still included for free for summer bookings,” says Benkö. This means you can cancel or rebook free of charge until shortly before your trip if strikes, conflicts or your own situation throw a wrench into your vacation bill.
Sources used: own RTL research and dpa
