Christmas in Nigeria is a time of joy, celebration, and reconnecting with family and loved ones. For many Nigerians, especially those from the eastern parts of the country, traveling home for the holidays is a deeply rooted tradition. However, this season also comes with high costs, from transportation to gifts and food.
The journey to the East, whether from Lagos, Abuja, or other cities, is one of the most traveled routes during the festive season. Unfortunately, the high demand for transportation services during this period means travelers often face skyrocketing fares. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With a bit of planning and strategic decisions, you can significantly reduce your travel costs.
Here are three practical steps to cut costs when traveling to the East for Christmas, complete with real-life examples and How to Save More on Transport Fares During December
3 Steps to Cut Costs When Traveling for Christmas
Step 1: Plan and Book Early
Why Early Planning is Key
One of the biggest mistakes most travelers make is waiting until the last minute to arrange transportation. Bus operators and airlines know this is peak season, so fares often double or even triple as Christmas approaches. To avoid paying exorbitant fees, start planning your trip as early as October or November.
Early Booking for Buses
Most major transport companies, such as God is Good Motors (GIGM), Peace Mass Transit, and GUO Transport, allow early bookings, either online or at their terminals. Booking early ensures you get seats at regular prices before the festive surge.
Example:
- Lagos to Onitsha: A bus ticket with GUO Transport costs around ₦33,000 in early December. By December 20th, the same ticket might go up to ₦45,000. So booking early saves you ₦12,000 per person. For a family of four, that’s ₦48,000 saved.
Early Booking for Flights
For those who prefer flying, early booking is even more crucial. Flights from Lagos to Enugu or Owerri, for instance, can cost ₦130,000 if booked early. By mid-December, the same flight might jump to ₦180,000 or more.
How It Saves Money
Early booking eliminates the risk of last-minute price hikes and ensures you get the best rates. Additionally, it gives you peace of mind, knowing your travel arrangements are sorted.
Another method is
1. Group Travel Discounts
- Some companies, like Peace Mass Transit and GUO Transport, offer discounts for group bookings.
- If you’re traveling with family or friends, inquire about group rates.
Step 2: Travel Light to Avoid Extra Costs
The Hidden Costs of Excess Luggage
Many travelers heading to the East for Christmas carry heavy luggage, from gifts to foodstuffs. While it’s understandable to want to bring as much as possible, excess luggage can attract extra fees. Most bus companies charge additional fees for bags exceeding their weight limit, and airlines charge heavily for excess luggage.
Pack Smart and Light
- Make a list of what you truly need for the trip and avoid overpacking.
- Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space.
- Instead of packing bulky gifts, consider buying them when you arrive at your destination.
Example:
- Bus Travel: Peace Mass Transit charges ₦2,000 per extra bag. If you manage to reduce two extra bags, that’s ₦4,000 saved on a one-way trip, and ₦8,000 saved for a round trip.
- Air Travel: Airlines might charge ₦20,000–₦50,000 for a second bag. Reducing your luggage by one bag saves ₦20,000–₦30,000 on a round trip.
Share Space
If you’re traveling with family, consolidate luggage to reduce the total number of bags. This way, you share the cost of excess luggage or avoid it altogether.
How It Saves Money
Traveling light cuts down on extra luggage fees, leaving more money in your pocket for other expenses. Plus, it makes your journey less stressful, as you’ll have fewer bags to manage.
Step 3: Use Alternative Transportation Options and Discounts
Consider Road Travel Instead of Flights
For those traveling from Lagos, Abuja, or other distant cities, flying is often faster but more expensive. If you’re on a budget, taking a bus is a more affordable alternative. While it might take longer, the cost savings can be significant.
Example:
- A flight from Lagos to Owerri during the Christmas season might cost ₦70,000 one way, while a bus ride costs around ₦15,000. For a round trip, that’s ₦140,000 by air versus ₦30,000 by road—a savings of ₦110,000 per person.
Leverage Ride-Sharing Options
If you have a car and plan to drive home, consider ride-sharing with friends or family. Splitting fuel costs can make driving more affordable.
Example:
- A trip from Abuja to Owerri might cost ₦36,000 in fuel. Sharing the ride with three others reduces your personal cost to ₦7,500.
Discounts and Loyalty Programs
Many transport companies offer discounts for early birds, students, or group bookings. Some airlines and bus services also have loyalty programs that reward frequent travelers with discounts or points.
Example:
- Peace Mass Transit: Offers discounts for students with valid ID cards. A student traveling from Lagos to Aba might pay ₦30,000 instead of ₦42,000.
- Air Peace: Frequent flyers can redeem points for discounted tickets, potentially saving up to ₦20,000 per flight.
How It Saves Money
Exploring alternative transportation options, ride-sharing, and discounts can drastically reduce your travel expenses. These options also add flexibility to your plans, ensuring you find the best fit for your budget.
Bonus Tips for Traveling to the East on a Budget
- Travel During Off-Peak Hours: Traveling at night or early in the morning can sometimes be cheaper due to lower demand.
- Avoid Rush Days: Most travelers hit the road on December 23 or 24. Traveling on December 20 or earlier can help you avoid higher fares.
- Bring Your Own Snacks: Food prices at motor parks and airports are inflated. Packing your own snacks saves money and ensures you have something you like.
- Stay with Family or Friends: Instead of booking a hotel, stay with relatives or friends to cut accommodation costs.
Conclusion
Traveling to the East for Christmas is an exciting tradition, but it doesn’t have to be financially draining. By planning early, packing light, and exploring alternative travel options, you can significantly cut costs and still enjoy a memorable holiday with loved ones.
These strategies aren’t just theoretical—they’ve been tried and tested by countless Nigerian travelers. So, start planning today and make your Christmas journey to the East both joyful and affordable.
