Are Vacation Packages Worth It?

Vacation packages are everywhere these days. 

Airlines, hotel bookings sites, credit card companies, Costco and more are offering bundled travel that includes flights and hotels and even rental cars and tours. But are they worth it? 

As with many things in life, it really depends on what you are looking for but overall, bundling your travel often means significant savings.

Travel packages almost always offer some savings and they provide added convenience to travelers because they can handle the entire booking in one fell swoop. There's one place to find all of your reservations. It's easy for time-starved individuals planning travel for a whole family or even just couples looking for a quick getaway. 

Spontaneous travelers and planners can both save big as package prices six months out and last-minute can be even better deals. Travel brands also find it easier to add savings in bundled offerings. 

“Vacation packages can save you $500 or more,” Steve Oliverez, CEO of InsanelyCheapFlights.com. told CNBC. “If you plan on staying at a hotel during your trip, always check to see if a package deal is cheaper. Brands are usually more willing to offer discounts when it’s less transparent, such as in a bundle.”

Where to Find the Best Travel Packages

While packaging your travel may seem like an ideal opportunity to book your whole trip on your own, consulting a travel advisor is one of the best ways to find deals on bundled travel. Advisors often have access to special deals that aren't offered to the public or deals that can provide travelers with more bang for the buck such as room upgrades and resort credits. 

Travelers can also find great deals from airlines as well. United Vacations, Southwest Vacations and others often bundle airfare and hotel packages and travelers can even earn mileage points while saving big on their vacation. 

Overall, those looking to save on travel in 2023 as inflation continues to prevail, bundling travel in a package is smart way to book.

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