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
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5 Replies to “Best Sites for Vacation Packages – Top Travel Deals”
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Dr. Artinian, thank you so much for posting that memory. How exciting it must have been, to share the skies with Apollo 11. I agree that today it seems like a remarkable achievement but of course we have not worked together, so hard for so long, on other projects that really need to be addressed. Education is one place to start!
The Lunar Landings
As I was landing in the northern desert of Saudi Arabia in a DC3 plane on July 20, 1969, the Americans were landing on the moon. That evening, the staff of Badana Base Hospital, that belonged to the Trans Arabian Pipeline Company (Tapline), were listening to the news, (Television was not available in the desert). They welcomed me as the new Internist at the hospital.
Soon I learned that the Saudis found it hard to believe that human beings could defile the moon by landing on it, which could have initiated the moon landing conspiracy theories, that persist today.
Now, 50 years later, the lunar landings were, and remain, the greatest achievement of humanity since the birth of intelligence on earth!
Boghos L. Artinian MD
Great information while traveling with children. Children safety first.
I want to do a car trip with my infant child and wife. But, I was afraid how can I travel with my infant child. After reading your blog I got some courage. Thanks for sharing such information. Thanks a lot.
I love to travel check it
I love to explore new things or new places, thank you for sharing your experience with is
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I really
appreciate your efforts and I will be waiting for your further post thanks once again.
Hello Hatch, we would be pleased if you want to share any articles from FamilyTravelForum with your audience. Anything we can do to help family travelers is a plus! Thank you.
Do you mind if I quote a few of your articles as long
as I provide credit and sources back to your website?
My blog is in the exact same area of interest as yours and my visitors would truly benefit from a lot of the information you provide here.
Please let me know if this ok with you. Thanks!
CORNING MUSEUM OF GLASS, NEW YORK
The Corning Museum of Glass – the world’s largest collection of glass – is showing “Journey to the Moon: How Glass Got Us There” and actual glassy pieces of moon meteorites to touch and see. For scavenger buffs, visitors to the museum can test their super-sleuthing skills and see if they can find the glass-tronaut hidden amongst the galleries.
Awesome Article!
Thanks for sharing..
DOUBLETREE BY HILTON TO TEST CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE DOUGH IN SPACE OVEN
In a partnership with Zero G Kitchen which is supplying a prototype space oven, and NanoRacks, a commercial space station company, Hilton’s DoubleTree brand is aiding efforts to bring freshly cooked food to the International Space Station. Some time in late 2019, their cookie dough hopes to be the source of the first fresh-baked chocolate chip cookie in space. Here’s more info about this and a cool student competition sponsored by Scholastic.
ok, thanks for the reply!
Thanks for sharing this! you’ll be able to do good as well as have fun and make a difference in the world. Whereas volunteer is always appreciated by all people.
Indeed, a good list. Everyday. At home or on the road.
hi Heather,
Thanks for your comment. We checked on those images and you’re right, that one with the pirate ship in the pool is not from the Bahia Resort. We removed it and checked the others, and the Bahia still has their famous Moorish style pool and pretty beachfront. Hope you have a great trip there.
Thank you Lisa d. So glad that Laura’s review of both Fairmont resorts helped you to make a choice, especially since you can’t really go wrong in Bermuda.
thank you I have been deciding between the two properties and your post was very helpful in my decision.
One of the pictures with a slide doesn’t look like the pool I remember seeing at the bahia. Did they add a new pool?
Dubai is an amazing destination for tourists from across the world. The city tour, desert safari and dhow cruise are among the most famous things to do in Dubai.
Thank you for sharing a really useful and informative article. The way you have detailed and described is really helpful. Hope to see more amazing articles like this. Keep it up to the good work!
Spring Break in Dubai is more exciting with Adventure Plus Desert Safari Dubai tours in Dubai
Great suggestions! The only action item Id say “Oh Hayyllll Nawww” to would be horse-drawn carriage rides. Check out the internet and youll see whats going on with those poor horses. But your other ideas for educational and just-plain fun – really excited to try them out with the family! Thank again.
Hello Omar and Katie,
The Scholasrship Submission form is working again, please revisit the page: https://myfamilytravels.com/Teen_travel_writing to apply for the 2019 Teen Travel Writing Scholarship.
Thanks and good luck!
I would love to participate but I keep getting page not found
Hello Omar, thank you for your note. We have noted this error and our web development team is working to fix it right away. We will let you know when it’s working again. Good luck!
Hi,
I am Paul from Cheapfaremart. I like your Article. If you always travel in Group then you can book cheap flights for Group travel like Family group, Students or business Group.
Know more:
I am very interested in participating in this scholarship opportunity. However, every time I click on the essay submission form, it takes me to a ‘Page not found’ link and says that there is an error with the link. Is there another link that I could possibly submit my essay and photos?
I had a travel blog in the past. But I was going through a rough phase so I shut it down. This article has inspired me to start once again.
SCHLITTERBAHN OPENS INFINITY RACERS, A MAJOR SPACE-THEMED WATERSLIDE
June 7, Colonel Terry Virts, a U.S. Air Force test/fighter pilot and NASA veteran of two spaceflights, will dedicate the newest, only one of its kind, 8-story-tall waterslide at Schlitterbahn Galveston. Infinity Racers is a pair of space-themed, racing head-first mat slides that race through enclosed colorful tubes as long as three space stations.
Nice Post. Thanks for Sharing with us……
Right?? It’s like a dream. I really didn’t believe them at all when I heard that, but looked it up, and sure enough, it’s really that sunny! I can’t wait to head back to the area.
I’m not sure as the rates tend to vary depending on the season. It’s probably best to contact them directly – (727) 363-5100. If you’re curious about their overall rates, I would ask if the rate changes depending on the season, and when their high and low season is. Hope that helps!
I remember visiting KSC during my school days with my friends where we got to learn a lot of interesting things related to space and comsos.
My husband and I are actually scheduled to stay at the Sirata Resort, in just a few days. I was wondering, if you happened to know the cost for the Private Cabana Rentals, you mentioned in your article?? Thank You!!
great useful info you have shared , being a traveler i need it most and it’s really helpful for the first time travelers. thanks for sharing.
I think curious teens would love this road trip. If you schedule enough time for Santa Cruz — which has a great amusement park and places to take surf lessons, that could be a 2-3 day stay for you. Going south, the Hearst Castle with all its tales of intrigue and the story of William Randolph Hearst’s life… it’s pretty fun as house tours go.
The scenery along the Pacific Coast Highway is beautiful, too, if you think your son would enjoy that. At many points, he can look out and see surfers! Towns like San Luis Obispo (now hip enough that locals call it SLO) have become destinations for wine and craft beers, so there are lots of cafes with young people that are fun, even if you’re not drinking.
The whole California coast is special, so ask your son to do some research and pick out spots that interest him, then incorporate them into your itinerary. That way, he’ll have a vested interest in making sure the trip is fun.
Do you think a 13 yr old would like this trip?
MALDIVES AND THE MOON FOR OUR PACIFIC FRIENDS
This just in from the Maldives:
Anantara Kihavah Villas in the Maldives has the largest telescope and observatory in the Indian Ocean so it’s slated as one of the best places in the southern hemisphere to observe and study the stars, planets and the moon. And it’s the moon that is taking centre stage for festivities on July 20th as Anantara Kihavah commemorates the 50th anniversary of man’s landing on the moon. To celebrate, Anantara guests are invited to join Shameem, the islands’ resident Star Guru for a ‘Star Gazing’ breakfast. Lay back to gaze at the stars that glitter overhead, and be regaled by Shameem’s knowledge as he takes you on an intergalactic journey before taking a look through the powerful telescope at the craters on the moon that still amaze people 50 years after the first landing.
For guests who like a later start to the day the SKY Bartenders at Kihavah have created a complimentary cocktail for all guests to mark the occasion – The ‘Buzz’ Aldrin ……
Dubai is an awesome place to spend a great time with the loved one or alone be experiencing the local attractions. Thanks for the details, i have missed the dinner night which i will surely book this time and experience it. Keep posting!
I would definitely go for JURASSIC DINOSAUR DIG. Thanks for suggestions
So many good suggestions! It will be hard to choose but surely through these we will have the most beautiful memories in this summer vacation!
361 days of sunshine a year? Wow! It looks like it’s a perfect destination for families! I’ll be more interested in this place!
Glad that you have a great time and a better idea of Vietnam. If you came back, consider visiting Ninh Binh
We are a family who likes to travel and volunteer where possible. We give gifts of time and service. We find that finding small grass roots organisations when on the ground or at your destination creates the best win-win for all concerned. For example we taught English in a small village in Indonesia – https://sabretoothedchickenstour.wordpress.com/2016/01/09/it-takes-a-village/
In the end it is not the actual work you do as a volunteer that is of the greatest impact but the stereotypes you breakdown and the connections made 🙂
Camping holidays in France are extremely popular and you’ll find some fantastic family friendly campsites with a whole host of activities including some brilliant swimming pools.
NEW YORK HALL OF SCIENCE SUMMER MOON FESTIVAL
We’ve just heard that the New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission with a summer filled with flight and space-themed exhibits, workshops, demonstrations, installations and a new film. The celebration kicks off on May 17 with Apollo 11: First Steps Edition, a film with never-before-seen footage and audio recordings of the historic mission. Other highlights include NYSCI’s summer exhibition, Above and Beyond – The Ultimate Flight Exhibition, and Apollo, A Party!, an evening event celebrating the Apollo 11 lunar landing. Check out their schedule for tons of workshops and special family events and go in to see a real Saturn V rocket like the one that took Apollo to the moon.
Man on the Moon in Zurich
The art exhibition “Fly Me to the Moon: The Moon Landing 50 Years On” will be featured at Kunsthaus Zurich in Switzerland, from May 4-June 30. The art show examines how the moon landing, and seeing images of the Earth from far away, changed man’s perception of his place in his environment and the universe. Look for moon works by artists John Russell, Rene Burri, Rene Magritte, Andy Warhol and many more.
Moon Walk Celebration in Ohio!
In southeast Ohio’s Hocking Hills region, the John Glenn Astronomy Park (JGAP) is celebrating its first birthday, while marking the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing. The observatory has 12 telescopes that offer dark sky views due to a lack of light pollution, allowing visitors to discover a distinct view of the moons, planets, stars and galaxies at each visit. The #Apollo50 events begin at 4 p.m. EDT July 20, 2019 and end at 1 a.m. July 21, 2019.
Nice post. I am traveler and I like adventure trips. Its really amazing. I wish to go there one by one. Thanks for sharing about these parks.
Thank you for useful information. It is very detailed.
Traveling with kids is fun but also very tired as we have to take care of them and don’t have much time for ourselves. Sometime I prefer traveling alone.