We are often asked how to save money with vacation deals, so we are sharing our favorite sites for discount travel booking. As a network of frequent traveling parents, we do a lot of research and really do use them all. So, after coming to a consensus on quality and efficiency, we’re delighted to unveil our top picks for the best sites for vacation packages.
You can click on any of these site ads, search for your needs and pay for your bookings through them, knowing they are trustworthy.
Through our affiliate relationship with them, we will get a small commission payment. Our commission doesn’t cost you anything; it comes from the vendor and helps support our community. Rest assured, you will pay the exact same price if you visit the site directly. Let’s go!
Favorite Site for Flight Searches: Google Flights
Our favorite place to begin a flight search and check out a variety of options is Google Flights. We use their Calendar Tool to look for alternate dates. We use their Flight Alert option to keep track of rising or falling ticket prices on our preferred routes. If you click on any of Google Flight’s options, you are sent to that airline’s website for booking.
When is the Best Time to Book a Flight
Advice on the best times to book airfare changes every season, because AI and booking algorithms get more sophisticated. Remember, it’s us v. the profit machines! In general, book at least 4 weeks out on off-peak travel and at least 12 weeks for high season. Start a month sooner for international fares. Take a look at this when-to-book flights post and try out their tips.
We find that advance trip planning helps you save, so start at least two months before departure if you can. Last minute deals don’t usually add up, especially if you’re traveling as a family and need several tickets.
Which Days are Cheapest to Travel
Travel pricing relies on a very sophisticated system called yield management. That basically means that prices rise dynamically as more bookers target certain dates and flights. Be strategic in picking your travel dates. For example, you’ll find the cheapest Thanksgiving week fares on the Thursday morning, because fewer people want to risk missing their family supper.
The cheapest days to fly, in general, are usually Tuesday or Wednesday. That’s because business travelers start and end their weeks away, making Sunday, Monday and Friday the busiest travel days. Thursday has become a popular day for starting long weekend trips.
Overall, you’ll save the most if your travel dates are flexible. Check the Fare Calendars on many flight search sites to see the lowest prices in a calendar format.
Favorite Site for Booking Airfare & Vacation Deals: Priceline
In general, we like Priceline and find they have good prices on most travel needs. However, we are often asked if packaging a trip makes more economic sense. The answer usually depends on how many people will be traveling on the same itinerary. While it might make sense to buy a flight-hotel-car rental bundle for two people on the same trip (and these are widely available at all the online travel agencies), this type of all-in-one package would not make sense for three or four people, because the other travelers would pay a premium for a room or rental car that the first two travelers had already paid for.
Spend a Half Hour Searching the Web Before Booking
Almost every travel site has become your one stop shop for “seamless travel.” Hah. If it was seamless we would not spend so much time shopping around, right?
There are so many online travel agencies. One solid option is Expedia, which often creates packages based on exclusive inventory you won’t find elsewhere. Same goes for Booking.com, the cruise line you’re interested in, and membership sites like Costco.
The best advice we have — do your homework. Price your trip a few different ways and make the best choice for your needs.
Favorite Site for Hotel Search & Booking: Booking.com
Our favorite vacation deals site for hotel bookings is Booking.com
When it comes to booking hotels, Booking.com is our top choice. It offers a wide range of accommodations worldwide at competitive prices.
Firstly, Booking.com boasts an extensive database of accommodations covering many hotels, resorts, hostels, and other lodging options worldwide. This diverse selection ensures that travelers find accommodations that align perfectly with their preferences, budget constraints, and desired locations.
What sets Booking.com apart is its consistent offering of competitive pricing. The platform allows users to effortlessly compare rates, promotions, and special offers from various hotels, often securing rooms at more affordable rates than other booking platforms might offer. This affordability extends to a wide range of budgets, ensuring travelers can find options that suit their financial plans.
Lastly, Booking.com simplifies the booking process with its user-friendly interface, allowing travelers to easily filter results based on various criteria such as price range, location, and property type. This streamlines the search for the perfect place to stay, reducing the time and effort required to plan an enjoyable vacation.
Good Alternative for Vacation Rentals: Vrbo
We favor Vrbo (formerly Vacation Rentals by Owner) for several reasons. Vrbo specializes in whole-home rentals, offering properties like houses and condos, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking spacious and private accommodations. This focus often leads to a more exclusive and comfortable experience, ideal for family trips or group getaways.
Favorite Site for Rental Car Deals: Priceline
Most travelers have deals on rental cars through their loyalty programs. These days, those deals can be tough to find. Look for good rates on the top Rental Car brands at Priceline. We find them pretty transparent about prices compared to sites that obscure all the extra fees. Priceline hotel savings can be up to 60% off
which is very good too.
Favorite Site for Booking Attractions: Viator
Discover and save on things to do with your kids with Viator. Viator is great for booking attractions in advance of arrival, plus you reserve now and pay later. It sure saves time waiting in line.
Viator stands out as an excellent choice for booking attractions for several reasons. Firstly, Viator offers extensive activities and tours in destinations worldwide. Whether you’re interested in cultural experiences, adventure activities, or historical tours, Viator provides diverse options to cater to various interests and preferences. Perusing the site’s offerings can help you figure out what you want to do.
Secondly, Viator simplifies the planning process by allowing travelers to secure their attraction tickets and tours before their arrival. This saves valuable time and ensures that you will experience popular attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons. With Viator, you can easily explore and enjoy the best that a destination has to offer, making it a convenient and reliable choice for travelers seeking memorable experiences.
Pro Tips: Travel Booking Hacks
After working on a roundup of travel hacks to help Bucket List travelers fulfill their dreams, I have a few more pro tips for travel savings.
Credit cards and loyalty programs
Research converting your credit card point to miles rewards at your favorite airline. In some cases, an airline will offer a mileage redemption ticket at much better rates than the cash value of those points. By moving your points to their branded miles wallet, you can pay for a ticket with airline loyalty miles and save.
Use a VPN While Booking
I use a VPN on my phone and laptop all the time, whether at home or traveling. In case you don’t know, VPN (Virtual Private Network) software encrypts your connection to the internet to make it private. That makes it safer to use public WiFi, because your VPN will find the most secure country connection to keep online activity safe from other users on the network.
One day, my home VPN connected to Mexico instead of my New York City home location. I discovered that travel company algorithms sometimes display different pricing depending on where they think the purchaser is based. With my active VPN, I searched for Dallas hotels while logged in to the Marriott Bonvoy member site.
When I checked the same hotel rates on another browser, after pausing the VPN, the rate was higher. When I turned it back on and checked again, the price per room decreased. After a few tries, I saved $48 per night on my Dallas hotel room because the pricing algorithm thought I was a shopper from Mexico, not New York. Try it, you’ll see!
Favorite Site for Camera Gear and Travel Electronics: Amazon
Like the rest of you probably, we begin our travel gear searches on Amazon
More Tips and Recommendations:
To make the most of your travel experience, consider the following tips when seeking the best sites for vacation packages:
1. Compare Multiple Websites: Avoid settling for the first package you find. Prices can vary significantly, so explore several travel websites and employ comparison tools to unearth the finest deals.
2. Embrace Flexibility: Achieve substantial savings by being open to slight adjustments in travel dates and destinations. Flexibility often leads to more budget-friendly vacation packages.
3. Subscribe to Alerts: Stay in the loop by subscribing to newsletters and fare alerts offered by travel websites. These notifications will deliver exclusive deals and discounts straight to your inbox.
4. Review and Ratings: Before finalizing your booking, delve into the reviews and ratings from fellow travelers who have either used the same website or booked similar vacation packages. Their insights can be invaluable.
5. Evaluate Inclusions: Scrutinize the package components, such as flights, accommodations, meals, and activities. Ensure they align with your preferences and budget.
6. Beware of Hidden Fees: Some websites may conceal fees or charges that aren’t immediately apparent. Thoroughly review the fine print to comprehend the total cost before confirming your booking.
7. Leverage Loyalty Programs: If you hold loyalty points or memberships with specific travel companies, maximize their benefits. You may qualify for discounts or upgrades.
8. Plan Ahead: Booking your vacation package well in advance often yields better deals and greater availability, particularly for popular destinations.
With these insights, you can confidently navigate the online travel booking realm while seeking the best sites for vacation packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are vacation packages, and why should I consider them?
Vacation packages typically include bundled services such as flights, accommodations, and sometimes activities at a single price. They can often save you money compared to booking each component separately while simplifying the planning process.
How do I find the best sites for vacation packages?
To find the best sites, consider using popular travel search engines like Expedia, Kayak, and TripAdvisor. Also, check out specific airlines’ and hotel chains’ websites, as they may offer exclusive deals.
Are there any specific times of the year when vacation packages are cheaper?
Vacation packages can be more affordable during off-peak travel seasons, which vary by destination. Booking during shoulder seasons or avoiding major holidays can help you find better deals.
Are there any risks associated with booking vacation packages online?
While online booking is generally safe, it’s essential to read the terms and conditions carefully, especially regarding cancellation policies and refund options. Ensure the website is reputable and secure.
Can I customize vacation packages to fit my preferences?
Many websites allow you to customize certain aspects of your package, such as choosing different flight times or upgrading your room. However, complete customization might not always be available.
How can I ensure I’m getting the best deal on a vacation package?
Use comparison tools to compare prices across multiple websites, sign up for fare alerts, and be flexible with your travel dates and destination. Additionally, consider loyalty programs and promotions.
Good luck with your vacation planning, and please share your favorite booking sites in the Comments section below.
If you find this article about the best sites for vacation packages helpful, consider checking out these articles below! –
- More Great Summer Vacation Ideas
- Top Vacation Rental Companies For US And Foreign Villas And Condos
- Beating The High Cost Of Family Vacations
- 10 Tips For Vacationing With A Child Who Has Autism – My Family Travels
Join our vibrant community on social media! Whether you prefer scrolling through stunning visuals on Instagram, diving into a world of creativity and inspiration on Pinterest!, engaging in lively discussions on Facebook, staying updated with real-time news on Twitter, or exploring captivating videos on YouTube, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t miss out – click those follow buttons, subscribe, and stay connected to be a part of our exciting journey!
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
5 Replies to “Best Sites for Vacation Packages – Top Travel Deals”
Comment on this article
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Good morning,
I wanted to give you some feedback…. We went to your site to determine what documentation was needed for my grandson to travel with me to Canada, and printed out two forms. We had one of the forms notarized as suggested, and set out on our trip the next day. When we arrived at the border, I was told we did not have proper identification! The page we had been working from on your site did not say anything about a birth certificate or photo ID, which they said I should have had. PLEASE amend that page to say something like… “In addition to a birth certificate and photo ID, these other documents are recommended…”
Thank you so much for your responsiveness. You may mention this on other pages on your site, but it really should also be on the documentation page.
Janet Gill
It all depends in which season you are travelling. November and December is being a very high season for any year to Europe and Asia.and Jan to Mar is where you will get the cheapest airfares of the year. Check out this web site http://www.skyfly-travels.com for cheap airline tickets.
thanks for sharing the such type of information. I really like the such type of information.Keep it up..
http://www.rideonwhistler.com – ski season canada
Does Australia require a PERMISSION TO TRAVEL letter?
Oahu is famous for its surfing beach at Waikiki, and that’s where many tourists take their first lesson. There’s calmer water as well as huge waves (if you know how to catch them) and there are many, more popular schools right there on the sand.
You don’t have to stay at a fancy hotel ot take lessons even though some schools are affilated with them; any surf guide will take you to other parts of the island and practice safe surfing with you.
My apologies, Michelangelo's David is not in the Uffizi, but in the Gallery of the Accademia. We did not travel to the Uffizi; the Gallery is the museum which houses David, and all of Michelangelo's bound slave statues.
Happy Travels!
Like you’re going to see any tourists riding the Banzai
What about tourist friendly surf spots?
Most of the time I don’t make comments on blogs, but I want to mention that this post really forced me to do so. Really nice post!
Apart from the big hotels "Hotel Rome" is included in the three star hotel, that provides you the great part of meals with leaving in best part of the hotel also you will find best facilities everytime when you require or not.
http://hotelriminirome.com — hotels near station termini, hotels near railways station rome
Just for clarification, it doesn't matter if a certain casino is the largest/smallest, the thing is that gamblers all over the world could play casino games they've wanted. As long as all types of games such as pokers, slot machines, etc. are available, then it's the type of casino we've always wanted in the first place. Well, we can't deny the fact that there's a lot of larger casinos in Netherlands…. 🙂
Usually it's better to confront your fears. If you choose to do so, as a parent you can start prepping your child with a couple of weeks before the flight. Try taking him to an adventure park where there are similar crafts to airplanes. And step by step you will get him used to flying. Otherwise, if you start drugging him since a child, as you said no good doctor can recommend it. I'm not sure if you would like to take him to rehab because he'll be getting to used to taking too many drugs all the time.
hi all 🙂
My family and I recently visited Morocco.
we booked a local agenct called http://www.desertbleu.org Morocco! Ali – the guide of the company,help my family to tailor made a 9 days 8 night private tour,helping us to arrange for drivers,hotels..etc.
we had a fantastic time in these 9 days. Ali try his best to satisfy all our wants anytime and explain everything to us very clearly.he treat you like a fds 🙂
Price of the private tour fm him is reasonable compared with others agency as i have done some research for about 2 months before this trip. my family and I were taken good care of during our 9 days.
If anyone is interested in travelling in Morocco – I'd recommend http://www.desertbleu.org Morocco
These are really good places to go on a family eco friendly vacation. Very beautiful with amazing nature. Eco vacations are getting more and more popuar nowaday and it is good that people appreciate the nature.
http://istanbulvipairportmeetandgreetservice.com
Thanks ….Family Travel Forum's guide to the best family attractions, parks, museums, and events in New York, I bookmark this site.
your link for disney land does not lead you to disneyland, it goes to Catalina Island info
Thanks for the heads-up, we fixed the link and hope you were able to find what you needed about Disneyland.
We are a FAMILY OF 4 . 2 ADULTS & 2CHILDREN 10 & 13 YRS. we need one FAMILY ROOM.
FROM 26TH DECEMBER 2011 OR THE 31ST D.CEMBER 2011 FOR 7 NIGHTS. WE WANT AN ALL INCLUSIVE PACKAGE. PLUS TRANSPOSTtion from the nearest nearby Airport.
FROM Moira Saliba (Malta)
Going to the theme parks without the kids is FUN FUN FUN 🙂
Paul, from Kaleidoscope Adventures
Nice blog! Thanks for sharing this very informative article. I’ve learned. Browse article at http://www.vssm.org and learn the negative effects of eating too much mint – http://www.vssm.org/tor/mint.
Leona http://www.vssm.org
I have been meaning to write something like this on my website and you have given me an idea. Cheers.
Angielski W Bournemouth
http://www.linguatour.com.pl
I love to read your Article.Ya that a perfect place what i was searching.you cant even being imagine how i am happy to know this place.i will share with my family and friends..thanks a lot.
Olive Restaurant
Olive Restaurant is the first terrace restaurant in the old town Istanbul. Olive Restaurant is a part of YaÅŸmak Hotels which has the experience of hospitality since 1955. At Olive Restaurant, you can feel the past and present together. You will pursue the trace of history just by looking at the Panoramic view of Istanbul Peninsula. The amazing view of St. Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Bosphorus lays out in front of you with an amazing harmony together. On the other side, welcomes you the Golden Horn which is a heritage from Genoeses while you are enjoying various delicious tastes of Turkish and International cuisine.
The 3-star Hotel Olimpiyat Istanbul offers comfortable accommodation in a fantastic location, just steps from the most famous symbols of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, including Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar!
Olimpiyat Hotel is a modern three star hotel built in 1955 and fully renovated in 2006. It is located in the old town of Istanbul and in a walking distance to major attractions as well as the port and famous train station Orient Express!
Personal tour guide with van rental service based in Shanghai (qinqinbetter2008@163.com)
Hi , my name is Qinqin, a beautiful, passionate and easy going chinese girl in shanghai , i graduated in 2007 with English major. Afterwards i came to shanghai by myself and worked in a company as a sales in oversea department. During my spare time ,i work as a tour guide in shanghai and cities around shanghai such as Suzhou, Hangzhou, water towns, etc.
So after three years working experience, i am very confident that i can offer following high quality service:
Please feel free to contact with me if you are interested in the above service, Once you start to contact , you will never regret.
Contact information :
Mobile:0086-13482286062
Email:qinqinbetter2008@163.com
qinqin.gan@gmail.com
msn:qinqinbetter2008@163.com
QQ:346909001
http://www.synotrip.com/qinqin
Don't forget Bob Megraw's Blueberry Patch in Kent! They always have the sweetest selection! Check out this other list I found for u-pick spots around Seattle:
http://www.redtri.com/seattle/5-natural-blueberry-u-picks-near-seattle
any idea about what time leaves turn? thanks, lmccutch@aol.com
We are hosting our first exchange student this year with EF Foundation for Foreign Study! Our family can't wait until he arrives!
I only wish I could host 3 students instead of two! Love EF
My family did this a few years ago and had a great experience. Highly recommended!
Scottsdale, Arizona is known as ‘The West’s Most Western Town’. With average of 300 sunshine days Scottsdale is fast becoming a popular tourist destination. There is plenty to do in this beautiful resort town.
___________________________________
http://www.guestofowner.com/USA/Alabama/Gulf%20Shores.aspx?Id=95&Level=4 — Gulf Shores Vacation Rentals
Hosting an exchange student is a life changing experience for both students and host families! There is so much we have to learn from each other. Getting to know more about a new culture is exciting at ANY age.
As the Director of International Programs in a private school, I have worked with recruiting & placing foreign exchange students in host families. The bonds between host and student become cemented over time and even after the official host experience ends, families continue to be involved. If you are considering becoming a host, I recommend talking with an experienced host family to get the good, the bad and the ugly. Somehow, the good always dominates the experience.
I love to read your Article.Ya that a perfect place what i was searching.you cant even being imagine how i am happy to know this place.i will share with my family and friends..thanks a lot.
http://www.adaringadventure.com – Newport Beach Harbor Cruise
Thanks for your marvelous posting! I quite enjoyed reading it, you are a great author.I will be sure to bookmark your blog and definitely will come back from now on. I want to encourage that you continue your great job, have a nice day!
http://www.logodesign.im –Logo Design Contests
Thanks for this read mate. Well, this is my first visit to your blog! But I admire the precious time and effort you put into it, especially into interesting articles you share here!
I think we need to bring more ideas for this purpose. Involvement of young people can be handy in this regard. I am happy to find a good post here. Thank you
Took a lot of time to read but I really found this very interesting and informative, thank you buddy for sharing.
The weekend gateways and short trips from the Dallas are quite interesting. I found the Hope watermelon festival more interesting. All the road trip options are gr8!
http://www.paradiseresort.in — Hotels in mandwa
Rome is a wonderful city in Italy. Thanks for exploring the places in rome and tips about sightseeing and planning trip to Rome. I am sure teenagers will definitely enjoy all the places.
http://www.paradiseresort.in — Hotels in mandwa
"The Mohegan Sun, which claims to be the second largest casino in the world and the largest convention and meetings destination in the Northeast, opened in 1996 and was expanded in 2001."
Wow! is it for real? I bet theres larger casinos in Netherlands than that. — http://nl.unibet.com/casino
Thanks for all the enthusiasm to offer such helpful information.
All the safaries are seems to be very interesting and happening. The kids have fascination about the animals, so I think kids will enjoy these safaries more.
http://www.paradiseresort.in — Hotels in alibaug
love the story and wish to read more!
Wow!!! Sounds like a great trip. It made me hungry! What a great way to share your good times with the rest of us. Nice job!!
Hi, we just booked a week at a resort/hotel in Myrtle Beach in mid Aug for a week. We are leaving from Burlington, Ontario (one hour from the Fort Erie/Buffalo NY Border), so we will be in Buffalo by Thursday or Friday morning (we can take two or nights to get to Myrtle Beach. What I am interested in are the following
Very informative and nice post. This post will be good guide for people who trvavel frequently and do not care about the leagal issues. This post will really help them to understand the involoved leagal issues and other things related to traveling in forrign countries.
Great article!!! Makes me want to travel to Gatlinburg!!! Thanks for sharing your vacation with us!
That was great!
Awesome job! Sounds like a fun trip!
I like how you described sights you saw. and how much fun you had. I enjoyed reading
I am completely agree with your views that environment really affects your skin. Sun Protection Clothing is useful to protect your skin from ultraviolet or UV rays. Regards,
http://www.asianimportstore.com/oilpappar.html – parasols