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Give the Gift of Travel This Christmas

traveler shopping for gifts in Morocco
Allianz - traveler shopping for gifts in Morocco

"Once the travel bug bites there is no known antidote, and I know I shall be happily infected until the end of my life" renowned British comedian Michael Palin once said. For the friend or family member who, like Palin is an inveterate wanderer, consider giving the gift of travel this Christmas. It’s likely your loved one will value another adventure over accumulating more things. Here are some ways to fulfill that special someone’s wanderlust.

Book a flight

Buying a plane ticket is a generous and effective way to get your loved one globe-trotting, but the act is not so simple. Don’t rush to book unless you are completely sure where the recipient may want to go and exactly when. Instead, make a promise. Give the recipient a card explaining that you want to fund an adventure, then purchase the fare when a destination is decided. It’s also reasonable to suggest trips that fit your budget, while considering when your loved one is free to travel. If you can, avoid peak travel periods such as spring break. Flights to a number of international and domestic destinations are often less expensive in the winter.

Buy gift cards

Keep an eye out for promotions targeted to gift card buyers. For example, $500 gift cards by Southwest, Delta, and Alaska airlines frequently retail at Costco for $450, a ten percent discount. Bought in bulk, the savings are significant. You can also find hotel and other gift cards that offer assorted bonuses with purchase, which can allow you to treat yourself, too.

Use points and miles  

If you have racked up substantial airline points and miles, you can use them to book travel for your loved one. Conveniently, airlines allow you to redeem your awards for other travelers, even if you don’t accompany them. Be aware that you will have to cover applicable taxes and fees out of pocket.

Shop vacation packages

Bundle airfare, hotel, and even a rental car and excursions at a good value when you book a vacation package. Of course, Kayak and Expedia are well-known for package deals. Consider also searching for deals at Costo Travel. And Airline vacation departments have competitive packages. For example, British Airways offers flight and car rental vacation bundles with 24-hour roadside support through its Fly Drive program. And the airline’s Cheap Vacations tab advertises affordable airfare and accommodation package deals in numerous major European cities.

Gift passes

If the recipient loves nature, gift an America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass; America’s ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites nationwide. The pass covers entrance, amenity, and day use fees.

Or give cash

Money is always a practical gift. Get creative to give the gesture a personal touch. You can gift cash in an attractive new travel bag or in a themed card.

Keep your loved one safe

Annual travel insurance by Allianz Global Assistance can protect your loved one all year. Our most  affordable annual insurance option is the AllTrips Basic plan, which includes coverage for medical emergencies, baggage loss and delay, and rental car damage and theft. Our AllTrips Prime plan also offers additional trip cancellation and interruption benefits. If your loved one is traveling internationally, purchasing travel insurance with emergency medical benefits is advisable because many domestic healthcare policies may have limitations on coverage abroad.

Millions of travelers rely on Allianz Global Assistance for help when they need it most. Get a quote for travel insurance and let us be there for you too.

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Dec 06, 2022