Travel packages can be a great way to save time and money when traveling. However, there are some things that travelers should keep in mind while booking them.
For example, they should check flight prices 23 hours after purchasing. This is because fares fluctuate often, and airlines may offer better saver-level award seats at that point.
Flights
Flight fares can be extremely expensive. Hence, it is always advisable to opt for a round trip rather than one-way flights as they tend to cost less. Similarly, it is best to avoid booking flight tickets with layovers as they are often more expensive than direct ones.
Travel agents/portals often lure travellers by providing ‘free’ facilities such as airport transfer and shopping assistance. Such ‘free’ offerings, however come at a cost in the form of hidden fees. Thus, it is always advisable to check for alternatives to such ‘free’ services before booking.
Another drawback of vacation packages is that they may offer fewer hotel options than booking separately. This can be an issue if you’re looking for a boutique hotel or a particular type of accommodation. In addition, if you’re planning to book a package at the last minute, be aware that prices are likely to rise significantly due to high demand. Therefore, it’s best to book a package as early as possible.
Hotels
While hotel packages do not have the same flexibility as booking flight and hotels separately, they can offer value to consumers. They save time by planning the itinerary in advance and eliminate the need to visit multiple websites and make multiple phone calls to book accommodations. Additionally, they can help travelers avoid the higher last-minute rates that are typically charged for a hotel stay.
Additionally, package bookings give hotels the opportunity to upsell guests before and during their stay. For example, hoteliers can include amenities such as spa packages, dinner vouchers and room upgrades in their travel packages. These additions can boost customer satisfaction, loyalty and increase average spend per customer.
To maximize the benefits of hotel packages, it is important to understand your guests and their needs. By analyzing the past booking history of your hotel and understanding which segments of customers are most likely to book a hotel package, you can design the perfect deal for them.
Transfers
While booking a travel package, it is important to remember that the cost of the trip will include more than just airfare and hotel accommodations. You should also consider other costs such as transfers, food, and activities.
Generally, a package holiday includes airport transfers between the airport and your accommodation or another local point of interest. However, it is advisable to book your own transfers in advance of travelling to avoid being overcharged.
If you are booking a package, check that the package company is a member of ABTA and that they offer key consumer protection such as the right to cancel, compensation for delay, refunds and rebooking. You should also be told about your rights by the company and be provided with a link or website address where you can find full details of these rights.
Extras
In addition to flights, hotels and transfers, most travel packages also include value-added activities. This helps travelers save time and energy while allowing them to see more of a destination. This can be a great way to attract tourists and increase revenue and profits for Bali tour companies.
However, it is important to understand what is included in a package before booking. Some travel packages may include only a few of these elements while others are all-inclusive. It is best to check the detailed itinerary thoroughly and book a package that covers everything you need.
Summary:
Travel agents/portals tend to lure travellers by offering additional services like airport transfer and shopping assistance but these amenities come with a price tag. Avoid these extra offerings as they may end up costing you more. In addition, make sure to choose a travel agency that offers 24 x 7 support in case of any emergency. Generally, these agencies will offer you more lucrative deals and provide prompt assistance.