Saving on New Year Holiday Travel: Tips for Malaysians

As the holiday season approaches, many Malaysians are looking forward to celebrating the New Year with their loved ones. However, the cost of travel during this time can be quite expensive, especially when it comes to e-hailing services. In this blog post, we will provide you with some tips on how to save on your New Year holiday travel.

Understanding the Fluctuation in E-hailing Fares

The Maxim service has provided insights into how e-hailing fares may fluctuate during holidays, highlighting the increased demand for rides during festive seasons. It has been observed that e-hailing orders surge by twice the regular rate on holidays, driven by shopping, social visits, and tourist activities. This rise in demand, especially for airport and station trips, impacts fare prices.

According to Maxim specialists, there is a more than 45% increase in trip demand from December 24 to January 2. During peak hours, prices can rise 1.5 to 2 times higher than usual due to an additional coefficient. However, ordering during non-peak hours can save passengers 30% to 50% of trip costs.

Tips for Saving on New Year Holiday Travel

Now that we understand the fluctuation in e-hailing fares during the New Year holiday season, let's look at some tips that can help you save on your travel expenses:

1. Plan your trips in advance

One of the best ways to save on your New Year holiday travel is to plan your trips in advance. By booking your e-hailing rides ahead of time, you can avoid the surge pricing that often occurs during peak hours. Additionally, planning your trips in advance allows you to choose non-peak hours, where fares are significantly lower.

2. Use public transportation whenever possible

If you're traveling within the city, consider using public transportation instead of e-hailing services. Public transportation options such as buses and trains are often more affordable and can help you save a significant amount on your travel expenses. Plus, using public transportation can also be a more environmentally-friendly option.

3. Share rides with friends or family

Another great way to save on e-hailing fares during the New Year holiday season is to share rides with friends or family members who are going to the same destination. By splitting the fare, you can significantly reduce your individual travel costs. Many e-hailing apps also offer options for carpooling, which can further reduce the cost of your ride.

4. Keep an eye out for promotions and discounts

E-hailing services often offer promotions and discounts during the holiday season. Keep an eye out for these special offers and take advantage of them to save on your New Year holiday travel. Subscribe to newsletters or follow the social media accounts of e-hailing companies to stay updated on the latest promotions and discounts.

5. Consider alternative e-hailing services

While popular e-hailing services may experience higher demand and surge pricing during the New Year holiday season, consider exploring alternative e-hailing services that may offer more competitive fares. Do some research and compare prices across different platforms to find the best deal for your travel needs.

6. Be flexible with your travel dates and times

If possible, be flexible with your travel dates and times. As mentioned earlier, ordering e-hailing rides during non-peak hours can save you a significant amount on your trip costs. By being flexible, you can take advantage of lower fares and avoid the surge pricing that often occurs during peak hours.

7. Consider using ride-sharing apps

Ride-sharing apps, such as GrabShare and MaximShare, allow you to share your ride with other passengers who are heading in the same direction. By sharing your ride, you can split the fare and save on your travel expenses. This option is especially beneficial for solo travelers or small groups.

8. Plan your itinerary efficiently

When traveling during the New Year holiday season, it's essential to plan your itinerary efficiently. By grouping your activities and destinations together, you can minimize the number of e-hailing rides you need to take, thereby reducing your overall travel costs. Consider visiting attractions that are within walking distance or using public transportation to get around.

9. Consider renting a car

If you're traveling with a group or planning to visit multiple destinations during your New Year holiday, renting a car may be a cost-effective option. Renting a car allows you to have more control over your travel schedule and can often be cheaper than relying on e-hailing services, especially for longer distances or extended stays.

10. Budget and track your expenses

Lastly, it's essential to budget and track your expenses during your New Year holiday travel. Set a budget for transportation and stick to it. By keeping track of your expenses, you can identify areas where you can save and make adjustments accordingly. There are many budgeting apps available that can help you stay on top of your travel expenses.

By following these tips, you can save on your New Year holiday travel and enjoy the festivities without breaking the bank. Remember to plan ahead, be flexible, and take advantage of promotions and discounts. Happy travels and have a wonderful New Year!