How to Score Cheap Tours Abroad: Expert Tips for Savvy Travelers

Booking your next international getaway could be significantly cheaper if you play the timing game right. Dmitry Gorin, Vice President of the Russian Union of Travel Industry (RST), told Lenta.ru that early-bird specials can slash the cost of foreign trips by 10 to 40 percent. These promotions typically roll out twice a year, just before the summer and winter travel seasons.

Gorin advises travelers to keep a close eye on exchange rates. Currency volatility can swing the final price of a trip dramatically, since most international bookings are converted from euros or dollars into rubles. He also points out that package deals from tour operators often beat independent bookings. Thanks to charter flights and negotiated hotel rates, these bundled offers can deliver real value.

As for last-minute bargains—don't count on them. Gorin notes that so-called "burning tours" have largely disappeared, making hot deals unpredictable. For those already planning ahead, the top summer destinations for Russian tourists in 2026 are expected to be Turkey, Egypt, and Vietnam. The key takeaway? Book early, watch the currency, and let the tour operators do the heavy lifting.