As the country continues to reopen, travel is on the rise.

Theme parks like Disney World are increasing capacity as demand soars to pre-pandemic levels. And as a result, we’re already expecting BIG summer crowds. But if you’re planning a trip in the next few months, you’ll want to be aware that you may find that travel is actually more expensive now than it was last year. Here’s why.

Airfare

According to CNBC, domestic airfare fares are up 9% since April 1st, while international fares are up 17%. And spoiler: that number just keeps going up. These prices are approaching 2019 levels as high demand — combined with fewer flights per day — drives that cost.

CNBC cites a report by Bernstein that explains, “For domestic travel, the June line is closest as it has ever been this past year to the pre-pandemic values.” If you’re flying soon, expect a higher price tag and a packed flight.

Read More About Increasing Airport Travel!

Hotels

We’ve got a similar situation goin’ on with hotels: more people are traveling now, driving up hotel prices with their increased demand. According to CNBC, Orlando’s hotel rates averaged at $107 per night in early May, compared to $62 last year. However, that $107 is still below the $133 average in 2019.

Disney World’s hotel room rates tend to fluctuate, with higher prices at peak demand and lower prices during slow seasons. Thus, with higher demand (Park Pass reservations are already booking FAST), we should see rates continue to rise.

If you’re looking to save money on your Disney hotel room, we recommend planning a trip during a less crowded time of year.

Here’s How to Save on a Disney World Hotel Room!

Rental Cars

Rental cars have gotten EXPENSIVE recently. According to News 6 Orlando, your rental car rate could be $300 or higher. That’s more than a ticket to the parks — and maybe even a night’s stay at your hotel!

Why?! Well, in 2020, rental car demand plummeted 90%, causing companies to sell off their inventory. Now, as travel returns, there’s a MAJOR shortage of cars, driving those prices up. You’ll have to spend big bucks — plus hidden extra fees like overnight parking at Disney World — to have one of these on your trip.

You may want to forego the rental car to save some cash. Disney’s Magical Express will offer a complimentary shuttle service from the airport to your hotel until January 2022, and Disney provides free transportation to all of their theme parks. Just something to keep in mind!

Read More About the High Cost of Rental Cars!

If you’re budgeting for your Disney World trip, you’ll really want to look into these costs. We’ll keep an eye on the state of travel and keep ya posted with plenty more Disney news, so stay tuned to DFB!

Here’s How Disney World Is Increasing Park Capacity!

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Are you planning a trip to Disney World? Let us know in the comments!

The post Travel to Disney World Costs MORE Right Now — Here’s Why first appeared on the disney food blog.