So you've accumulated your vacation days, saved up your pennies and are all ready to book your next vacation. But wait, how do you get the best value for your hard earned dollars? If you're reading this article, you're probably already familiar with most of the travel sites available online. All of which offer enticing slogans and offers that seem like a good value - or not. How do you sift through all the avialable vacation options and spend the least amount on the best available option?
Booking directly with a hotel or through a service?
This question can be answered either way. Sometimes eventhough hotels claim to offer the best price per night or per package booking, online travel services might be offering added value that could ultimately save you hundreds off your total vacation price. For example, sites may offer additional savings off hotel/airfare packages when booked together, or offer other incentives such as free excursions, dinners and hotel transfers. Moreover, travel booking sites may have negotiated special deals at popular destinations based on their purchasing power.
What to do?
If you have a specific destination or hotel in mind, price it with several travel booking engines and note your final price. Next price out your airfare if need be. The final step is to go directly to the hotel's website and price out the stay for the same dates together with the booking direct airfare you've found and see which option gives you the most savings. Don't forget to check current coupon and promotions codes on offer - which can add up to additional savings, usually as little as $5 off your booking or as much as hundreds off the total price of the trip. Don't be lazy! There are plenty of deals to be had - you just have to find them
Booking ahead vs. last minute deals?
Again, both options may be best. Depending on your flexibility and timeline, the best hotel, airfare and cruise deals may sometimes be available well in advance. The bonus in booking ahead is a greater choice of options, both in locals as well as available dates. If booking a cruise, be sure to stay on top of any price drops, as these are often honored by the cruise line even after you've booked! Be sure to read all terms and conditions with the company yhat provides you your travel service.
If you can be flexible on dates and locations, and like to be spontanious, search for last minute travel deals. As your travel dates approach, many travel providers slash their rates to ensure maximum occupancy. Again, be sure to take advantage of any current coupon and promotions codes on offer.
Staying abreast of the latest promotions
If you want to find the best deals as they become available, sign up for newsletters and social pages of your favorite providers, These often include limited time member only offers that are snatched up quickly. The downside to signing up with multiple newsletter services is a constantly full mailbox... A better option might be to sign up for an aggregate newsletter so you get updates in one or just a few emails.
Last minute vacation rentals
Sure you've heard of timeshares - but you don't have to be an owner of a red week to enjoy a rock bottom price on a week long stay at a top resort. Many of the weeks that are purchased are deposited back into the program each month, leaving a large inventory of vacant units. These units are then offered at considerably lower rates than published per night when you book through a vacation rental service. Prices per week may drop to as alow as $149 per week for a studio unit - even in the most sought after properties - so be sure to check these out.
