The vacation season is in full swing. The time to plan your next escape is now! If you are looking for a break from the daily grind, then it’s time to start planning for that perfect trip. If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry – we’ve got 10 tips that will help get you started on booking a great vacation with travel agencies.
1. Figure out where you want to go, and when
Although it may seem obvious, you need to know where you are going. Chances are you will get more for your buck if you keep your destination close by. If not, look at booking a home stay! This is especially true if this is an annual vacation that occurs each year – meaning it is something that becomes part of the family tradition.
2. Don’t wait until the last minute
Remember – you get what you pay for. If you wait until the last minute to book your vacation, chances are it will cost more and the availability is going to be limited. Book early and put an end date on flexibility.
3. Work with a travel agency
If you are not sure which direction to go when booking your trip, working with a travel agency can help point out things you may have overlooked in your planning stages. The extra advice they have to offer will save money down the line!
4. Have fun with it!
You’re taking time off from work – so do something that makes you happy! Think about activities that excite or relax you, then search online for spots in your area that provide that kind of experience. You may even find a great deal on a hotel that is within walking distance to the activities you have chosen!
5. Make it an annual vacation
Make your vacation time something everyone can look forward to annually. If this means taking trips every year, then do so! Have fun retelling stories from past vacations and plan for great adventures in the current year to come!
6. Set a budget and stick to it
While you’re at it, set a firm price point for yourself when planning this trip. Remember – stretch that dollar as far as you can by not going overboard on extras or upgrades that will add up quickly when all is said and done.
7. Compare prices with other travel websites before booking
You never know when another website might have a better deal for you, so check out some of the top travel sites online to see what kinds of deals are being offered! If you find something more appealing on one of them, book it ASAP! Don’t get stuck paying more than you have to!
8. Get good planning advice from people who care about your vacation experience – not commission
Don’t let anyone try to “sell” you anything during the trip planning stages. While they may be excited about upgrades or special offers, remember that their paycheck comes from making you happy with your purchase – not trying to sell you more than necessary.
Remember that no one is going to be on your vacation with you, so make sure the travel agency is up-front about which resorts/hotels they represent. If they are hesitant to tell you where their hotels will send you unless you book through them – then run the other way! Ask for references of past customers who stayed at that resort or hotel, and see what kind of customer service they received.
9. Determine if it’s worth it before committing
When booking your trip try not to get caught up in how exciting some extra adventure might sound initially – ask yourself how often during or after your vacation will you think back fondly on the experience? Trips like these should be fun overall – so choose wisely!
10. Check for special offers
If you are looking at a resort that has their own website, check the website frequently to see if they have specials or promotions available that will lower your total cost. You may find it cheaper to pay the extra money now instead of spending more later on!
Conclusion
Planning your vacation can make all the difference in how much fun you have during said vacation. If you are not satisfied with your overall experience – remember that you can hold them accountable by leaving negative feedback online where others can read about it and become aware of these travel agency practices before deciding on who they want to work with!