Vacation Packages: Do They Save You Money

If you are planning your next family vacation, you may have heard that booking your trip in the form of a vacation package is the way to go. Yes, it can be, but do you really get the best deal? Yes and no; it depends on a number of factors.

One thing you need to remember about vacation packages is that they are sold through third-party travel websites. These websites are essentially the go-between. They aren’t helping you book your vacation out of the kindness of their heart. They are getting paid to help you. Who pays them? The airline, hotel, and car rental companies do. Where do you think this money comes from? It essentially comes out of your pocket. So although third-party travel websites do boast they can get you a good deal for your next vacation, it does not mean that good deal is the best available.

Another factor to consider is hidden fees. Third-party travel websites are known for tacking on extra fees and taxes for travelers. Unfortunately, rarely do they disclose these fees upfront. With some, you don’t know until after the payment is processed. Luckily for you, these fees are outlined somewhere on the travel company’s website. If you want to gain insight into these fees ahead of time, search the website. You want to look for sections that outline fees, rules and restrictions, or terms and conditions. By actively seeking this information, you won’t be surprised when it comes time to make payment.

One of the most common questions travelers ask is “how do I know if I am getting a good deal with a vacation package?” Unfortunately, many mistakenly believe it is impossible to tell. Some just accept the word of the company selling them the package. Do not do this. It is easy to tell if you are getting a good deal with a vacation package. In fact, it will only take you minutes to check and you can do so right from your computer. How?

Visit an online travel website, like Orbtiz.com. Search for the travel package of your choice. For example, at the time of this article, there was a package available for a 7-night stay at the Luxor Hotel in Las Vegas, with a car rental, and tickets through Delta Airlines for $753 a person. This is departing from Syracuse, New York. You now have the name of the airline and hotel. Visit these websites. For the same travel dates, it costs $514.94 for a 7-night stay at the Luxor hotel in Vegas. The lowest fair available for a Delta flight is $419.90, including taxes and fees. A car rental for the same time costs about $125 a week. So, your total is $1,059.84. Do you save money by booking your trip through Orbtiz.com? Yes. In fact, you save over $300!

Although the Las Vegas travel package highlighted above did result in a savings through a third-party travel website, there are no guarantees. That is why you are encouraged to verify this information ahead of time. Luckily, it will take you less than 15 minutes to do. If you aren’t getting a good deal, move on to the next travel package. If none of them save you money, bargain with the car rental, airline, and hotel, occasionally you can get the price reduced by being polite and convincing.