travel booking types

We compared 7 travel-booking sites to show you what each is best at

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Planning a vacation or trip is undoubtedly stressful. You're bombarded with seemingly endless options for flights, lodging, and things to do, and it can be difficult to figure out where to start. Many travel aggregators strive to present you with the best deals, but they all end up looking very similar to each other.

These similarities make it easy to know what to do and expect when you first visit a site. Typically, you enter your destinations, dates, and number of travelers. After you click search, you can further filter based on price range, airlines, and departure times for flights; amenities, hotel stars, and location for hotels; and type of car and rental car company for cars. 

So what makes one site better than another?

It all depends on your priorities and preferences. Everyone travels and plans for that travel differently. Here are seven travel sites and the factors you should consider when choosing a site. 

Booking.com

Booking.com is a huge bank of information, offering more than 1 million properties in 117,000 destinations in 225 countries and territories. Wherever you'd like to go, you'll find it through this site. It offers booking for flights,  hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars.  Clicking  restaurants will take you to OpenTable. 

Highlights:

I found their desktop homepage to be cluttered and a lot to look at compared to the homepages of other sites, but their app experience was noticeably simpler, which makes sense as travelers increasingly turn mobile. 

One feature on the homepage that stood out to me (shown above) was the "Are you traveling for work?" option. Clicking "Yes" will present popular business travel options like WiFi and breakfast.

Another feature was its flexible date suggestions if your chosen destination is a popular choice and accommodations are more than 50% reserved during your selected dates.

Best for: 

• Wide variety of options, including hostels, homestays, and bed and breakfasts
• Easy access to your plans and searches by syncing your account across your devices 
• Getting the best deals with their Price Match offer 
• Destination travel guides and articles 

Lacking or not the best for:

• Bundling hotel, flight, and car packages

Book a trip with Booking.com

Expedia offers booking for  flights, hotels, vacation rentals, rental cars, cruises, and things to do. 

You can bundle flight, hotel, and car deals so you don't have to go through the headache of looking separately and trying to coordinate all the deals. 

The "My Trips" section is helpful for managing your entire itinerary in one place, so you don't have to search through endless emails and accounts to figure out your vacation plan. 

If you sign up as a member, you can earn Expedia+ points to use toward future trips. Use the mobile app to earn 2x Expedia+ points. 

Like Booking.com, Expedia also offers suggestions for date shifts, date extensions, and route changes to get you to the cheapest deal. 

• Hotel, flight, and car bundles 
• Coordinating your whole vacation itinerary 
• Reward points system
• Single bookings. The site is best utilized for its bundle packaging.

Book a trip with Expedia

Tripadvisor.

TripAdvisor offers booking for flights,  hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and things to do.

It's well-known for its user-generated reviews, so as you're booking, you get the added benefit of reading reviews all in the same place. While I'm partial to Yelp for food recommendations and believe it to be better for US destinations, TripAdvisor is much more widely used in the international community. 

TripAdvisor is the most experience-driven travel site. You are not just booking somewhere to live — you're signing up to experience and explore a destination. 

• Detailed filtering (e.g. style for hotels and distinctive features for vacation rentals) 
• Comparing deals across aggregators 
• Strong user-generated review community 
• Bundling hotel, flight, and car packages 

Book a trip with TripAdvisor  

CheapOair offers booking for  flights, hotels, and rental cars.  Clicking on its cruises  tab takes you to another site, Cheap Cruises.  

The "Travel by Interest" section offers special deals for senior , military , student , and last minute travel . The military and student discounts emphasize keeping costs low, while the senior discount focuses on senior friendly destinations at an affordable price. 

Whether you're coordinating a reunion, wedding, or corporate event, a Group Travel Request is a good option. You can work with an agent on your travel needs. 

• Specific travelers like senior citizens, military, students, and large groups
• Higher than usual service fees (e.g. $32 per night per room for hotel bookings)

Book a trip with CheapOair

Hotwire offers booking for  flights, hotels, and rental cars.

Hotwire gives you all the filters and options you need but maintains the balance of not giving you too much. It keeps its sections simple, so you don't need to worry about something you may be missing out on. 

Thanks to partnerships with other travel sites like Hotels.com and Expedia, Hotwire can offer extremely low prices. There is also a free 24-hour cancellation policy on most flights. 

• Focused searchers who do not want to be distracted or overwhelmed by too many options, things to do, and city guides. Destination guides and inspiration can be found on a separate blog page. 
• Travelers on a budget
• Travelers with very specific preferences like hotel brand or car brand

Book a trip with Hotwire

Travelocity.

Travelocity offers booking for  flights, hotels, vacation rentals, rental cars, cruises and things to do.  And no, you're not seeing double. Expedia owns Travelocity, which may explain why the two homepages look almost exactly the same. 

From what we can tell, the most noticeable difference is Travelocity's Roaming Gnome, which represents the inspiration and wanderlust of traveling. The "Inspiration" section contains interesting articles like "Best Foodie Finds in Airports Around the World" and themes like "Luxury" or "Romantic." Expedia's travel blog, on the other hand, is relegated to an easy-to-miss link near the bottom of the page. 

• All the benefits of Expedia but with a more exploratory inspiration angle 
•  Single bookings. The site is best utilized for its bundle packaging.

Book a trip with Travelocity

Priceline offers booking for  flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises.  

The " Express Deals " option rewards flexible travelers with up to 60% savings on hotels. The site will give you the location and star rating, but not the name of the hotel. You can still choose the bed type for many of the options. 

Another way to save is the Name Your Own Price feature where you input the location, star rating, and price bid for a hotel. 

For car rentals, you can also Name Your Own Price and bid for a car. If you don't have big preferences on the car brand, you'll be able to find a car for a price less than the search listings give you. For example, I was able to get an economy car with unlimited mileage for $30 a day, while the general search yielded cars that were all at least $37 a day. 

The cruise section is clear and easy to navigate. The search option is similar to searching for flights, with more dropdown selections than other sites. This feature is ideal for travelers who know exactly what they want for their cruise experience, and are not merely shopping around. 

• Travelers with low hotel and car brand loyalty who want to find a great deal
• Having a more focused cruise search process 
• Travel inspiration or destination guides
• Low risk takers who like to know exactly what they're getting

Book a trip with Priceline

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• Main content

17 Best Travel Sites for Hotels, Flights, Tours and Car Rentals

Booking.com tops our list for the best travel booking websites, but there are a few others we recommend for specific purposes.

With so many travel booking websites on the market today, finding the best deals for your travels can be tedious. Thankfully, there are several top travel websites you can use when booking flights, hotels and tours.

From flight aggregators to hostel and hotel booking sites, the websites in this list will make planning and booking your travels a little easier. Whether you’re trying to score cheap flights or find the best tour on the other side of the world, these are the best travel sites for making it happen.

I realize all of this information can be a little overwhelming. Every online travel site out there seems to do something different, and sifting through hundreds of search results to find something you like is time consuming. The offers are endless, but the ideal booking site doesn’t overwhelm its users with options or questionable services.

I have personally used every single company on this list for booking travel , and most play a crucial role in allowing me to adventure around the world. These are the best travel booking sites for helping you plan the ultimate trip.

• Best to Find Cheap Hotels: Booking.com
• Best Hotel Rewards Program: Hotels.com
• Best Site for Vacation Rentals: Vrbo
• Best Booking Site for Hostels: Hostelworld
• Best Booking Site for Hotels in Asia: Agoda

Best Hotel Search Engines & Booking Sites

Finding the right accommodation is one of the most important decisions to make while traveling. Location, amenities, and cost are all factors to consider when looking for the right hotel or hostel for your adventure.

And while there are dozens of hotel booking websites to choose from, finding the right place doesn’t have to be complicated.

Here are the best sites I’ve used for fining hotel deals:

Booking.com : Best to Find Cheap Hotels

Booking.com has, by far, the largest number of hotel search results. With over 5.7 million listings in 227 countries, they’re the first place you should look to find hotels online. In addition to hotels, Booking.com also has hostels, guesthouses, apartments, vacation rentals, and all-inclusive resorts available.

With Booking.com, the advertised price is the final price you pay. Other travel websites may have hidden taxes and fees that aren’t explicitly stated, so you’ll end up paying more than you thought at the reservation desk. But with Booking.com, there are no unexpected fees or hidden resort charges. This makes budgeting and trip planning much easier.

All reservations come with a price match guarantee. That means Booking.com will refund the difference if you find a lower price for your hotel on another website after you book. This best price guarantee is an unbelievable perk that could save you a lot of money in the long run.

And once you make your second booking, you’ll automatically become a Booking.com Genius, which rewards you with member-only discounts and offers (even freebies). It’s like accessing a whole world of insider information without actually having to sign up for anything. Genius members receive 10% to 15% off rates, free breakfast, and free room upgrades.

Plus, Booking.com also lets you search for and book your flight, rental car, and attractions, so you can just put in your travel dates and create full vacation packages from one site!

Hotels.com : Best Hotel Rewards Program

Although they aren’t as big as Booking.com, Hotels.com is still a great option when looking for the best deals on hotels. They have over 300,000 hotels in over 19,000 locations around the world. Besides traditional hotel rooms, they also have apartments, cottages, hostels, motels and all-inclusive resorts.

Like other travel sites, Hotels.com lets you filter the search results by date, price, and amenities. You can also sort by distance to find hotels close to certain attractions or neighborhoods. Plus, look at hotel reviews by real, verified users.

Despite the name, Hotels.com lets you search and reserve more than just hotels. They also have a wide range of vacation rentals available including chalets, condos, and full houses.

One of the main reasons for booking with Hotels.com is to take advantage of their unique rewards program. Once you sign up and book 10 nights, you’ll get to stay one night for free. Your free night can be redeemed at one of their 200,000+ properties in popular destinations around the globe without restrictions or blackout dates. Hotels.com also shares a rewards program with Expedia and Vrbo, so you’ll be able to take advantage of savings with any of these sites.

Hotels.com reward members or app users can also unlock secret deals on accommodation. These are specially negotiated discounts that will save you even more money for certain hotel or accommodation listings.

App users can also find last-minute deals using the “Deal for Tonight” feature. You’ll find huge discounts (up to 40%) when looking for a room with same-day check-in.

Vrbo : Best Site for Vacation Rentals

If you want the comforts of home while you’re halfway around the globe, then Vrbo is an excellent alternative to traditional hotel booking websites. Vrbo is a search engine that lists thousands of homes, vacation rentals, apartments, and condos for anyone who wants to experience a country while living like a local, whether staying in the city center or out in the woods.

Ideal for couples, families, or those needing a bit more privacy, Vrbo lets you relax without the hassle of dealing with a host or other travelers. They also tend to list more luxury vacation rentals that have a much higher standard compared to other rental sites.

For this reason, the vacation rentals on Vrbo might cost more than your average hotel from other travel sites. However, you’ll get much nicer accommodations.

Vrbo also has great customer service. All guests are protected by their Book with Confidence Guarantee, which comes with a 24/7 hotline, payment protection, and even last-minute cancellation coverage. So if your host cancels your booking before you arrive, the Vrbo team will try and find another place for you to stay. You can also buy travel insurance so you get a full refund in case you have to cancel.

In addition, Vrbo has a rewards program called One Key that lets you earn rewards on every dollar you spend on travel. This loyalty program is shared across Vrbo, Expedia, and Hotels.com, so you’ll be able to get package deals no matter how you travel.

Hostelworld : Best Booking Site for Hostels

Hostelworld is the top travel site for researching and booking hostels all over the world. They operate in over 178 countries and have a database of seemingly every hostel in existence.

When looking for a hostel, you’ll find accurate ratings and hotel reviews from real users on this booking site. The review score considers information about security, facilities, services, atmosphere and overall value for your money. And they only accept reviews from people who have booked through Hostelworld, so you know the reviews are genuine.

If you want to save money, Hostelworld is an excellent option for those on a tight budget. That’s because most hostels allow you to book a bed in a dorm room, which is far cheaper than booking a private room. But if you want some extra privacy, some hostels have private rooms with (or without) en-suite bathrooms.

You’ll be able to filter hostels by certain amenities, like free breakfast or on-site laundry. You’ll also see a list of different events happening at the hostel during your stay, from pool parties to pub crawls.

However, Hostelworld really shines when it comes to its great customer service. They will refund the price difference if you find your hostel on another site for cheaper. And if you can no longer go on your trip, you have up 24 hours before check-in to cancel without losing your deposit.

Agoda : Best Booking Site for Hotels in Asia

Agoda started out as the top hotel booking site for hotels in Asia, but since has expanded its offerings worldwide. They also have non-traditional accommodation types like homes and hostels. From capsule hotels in Tokyo to private bungalows in Bali, Agoda has over 2 million properties to choose from.

Generally speaking, prices for Agoda hotels are comparable to other travel websites. However, you can save money by booking a hotel through their secret deals program.

With the secret deals program, the identity of the hotel will remain anonymous until you complete your booking. But you’ll be able to see the hotel’s star rating, neighborhood, and amenities before reserving. Some luxury hotels don’t like to advertise their cheap rooms openly, so this is a way to sell rooms at discount prices without making it too public. If you aren’t set on staying at a specific hotel or chain, this program is an excellent option for saving money on accommodation.

By booking on Agoda, you have the opportunity to maximize your earnings with the Agoda PointsMAX program. Once you sign up and link your Agoda account to one of your other mileage programs, you can earn up to 6,000 points per stay. Some of their current partners include American Airlines AAdvantage, United Mileage Plus and KLM/AirFrance Flying Blue.

Couchsurfing : Best for a Free Place to Crash

If all you need is a couch to sleep on, Couchsurfing will help you to find it. Instead of spending the night in a hotel, you’ll be using this booking site to find a couch to sleep on in the home of a friendly host. Trust me — it’s not as awkward as it might seem!

For those needing a bit more privacy, some people also list their private rooms through Couchsurfing. But generally speaking, you’ll usually be staying in the same living quarters as the host.

You’ll also be able to connect with like-minded people from all over the world who want to share their culture and show you the best parts of their city. They’ll tell you about the best local hangouts and restaurants so you can avoid the tourist traps. They might even be interested in joining you for sightseeing in the city or drinks at the local pub. In my experience, hosts are eager to interact with their guests.

When you’re browsing for places to stay, you can search for hosts by gender, age, language, and house preferences. Whether you’re allergic to cats or looking for wheelchair-friendly accommodation, you can easily find the ideal housemate. Remember, you should be looking at the host just as carefully as you look at the apartment itself. Make sure you read the reviews left by other guests. The more reviews, the more confident you’ll feel about staying with that host.

The goal, ultimately, is for you to return the favor whenever you’re at home, thus keeping the Couchsurfing spirit alive around the world. (Trust me, it can be just as fun to host as it is to surf.)

But best of all, unlike pretty much all other travel websites, Couchsurfing is completely free! It’s customary to bring a gift or cook for your host as a token of appreciation for letting you stay in their place, but besides that, you’ll be able to see the world without spending a single penny on accommodation.

• Best Hotel Booking Websites
• Airbnb Alternatives
• Airbnb vs. Vrbo
• Airbnb vs. Hotels

Google Flights

Dollar flight club, going (formerly scott's cheap flights), cheap flight booking websites & search engines.

In the world of online travel, booking a flight is one of the most important initial steps to having a great trip. And unless you’re planning on spending thousands to sip champagne in business class, the cost of your ticket will probably be a significant deciding factor in what you book.

Although you could book directly with the airlines, using online travel agencies (OTAs) allows you to compare pricing to find the best rates for your trip. To help you figure out where to book your next flight, consider one of the flight search engine travel sites in this section.

Keep in mind that these search sites are not booking sites . They simply compare rates for flights and redirect you to other sites to complete your purchase. You’ll get tons of results, but it’s up to you to sort through them. You should also take the time to use more than one website to compare pricing. Results may vary!

If they send you to a small website you’ve never heard of, do your research to make sure the company is dependable (although these OTAs don’t tend to deal with shady booking websites—a big reason these are the ones I recommend). It’s important to look at the fine print, as some companies might have their own cancellation fees or change fees in addition to the fees set by the airlines.

It seems that you can find anything you want from Google. There’s Google Maps, Google Scholar, Google News, Google Earth, and now Google Flights.

Google Flights is always the first search engine I turn to when I’m looking for the best flight deals. They scan through all available flight options for both major airlines and online travel agencies and then sort through the results to show you the best possible option for your trip. Like Google Maps, or anything else from Google, they’ve really mastered the art of searching, and this is one of the best sites to find deals.

The calendar view makes it easy to pick dates with the best price. And if you haven’t locked down your travel dates, you can check for flights with their flexible date tool. For example, you can search for the cheapest flights in January or even a one-week trip in the next six months.

You can also use the Date Grid in Google Flights to see the cheapest flight combinations for different departure and return dates. Or, check the Price Graph to compare how the prices are likely to change over the next few months. This is a great tool for identifying significant price drops for your desired route.

Many times you’ll want to search for a specific airport, but if you’re also flexible with your destination, you can search for flights by continent or country. This flexible search is an excellent option if you’re looking for a last-minute weekend getaway without a set destination in mind.

And unlike other travel websites, Google Flights will make sure you’re getting the best rates by offering money-saving recommendations. They’ll let you know that by flying in two days later — or to a different airport nearby — you could save even more money.

Whether you’re booking an RTW adventure, a weekend getaway to New York or simply browsing for inspiration for your next trip, start with Google Flights. And if you’ve got the time to really learn how to use Google Flights , I highly suggest it. Knowing how to squeeze the most out of this incredible tool is a skill well worth having.

Skyscanner is a great travel site for cheap airline tickets, and it’s always my second stop after Google Flights. They search through over 1,200 different airline companies and smaller OTA sites to compare the best offers for your travels.

You can also use their “Everywhere” search engine to look up the cheapest flight going anywhere in the world. The results show the average price for a country, so you’ll need to narrow down the search by destination city to see the exact price for a specific airport. However, you’ll get a better idea of which countries tend to have cheaper flights.

It’s also easy to filter for nonstop flights, included luggage, nearby airports, departure/arrival time, and more so you can find deals on the exact flights you’re looking for.

I recommend downloading the Skyscanner app. Not only can you search and book flights through the app, but you can also use the “Explore” feature to find destinations for solo travel, quick getaways or last minute trips (which is especially handy if you’re traveling open-ended).

One last bonus: Skyscanner also lets you search for deals on hotels, vacation rentals, rental cars, and even complete vacation packages. This travel site has it all.

Momondo is another flight search engine that should be on your radar. This company scans through thousands of airline companies and OTAs to display rates for both domestic and international flights. And unlike other sites, Momondo shows prices for many of the smaller OTAs overlooked by Google Flights and Skyscanner.

I also use Momondo to find out when the best time to fly is. I particularly love their matrix that highlights an entire month, meaning you can compare prices to find the lowest price possible.

On the search results page, Momondo offers bar charts that show prices for different departure and return dates. You can use this feature to spot any significant price drops for flights if your dates are flexible. Play around with these features — it takes some getting used to, but once you get the hang of it, you can score some fantastic travel deals.

You can also look at the “Flight Insights” page to see price trends and analytics for your exact route. This page uses historical search data to show you the cheapest month, day, and even time of day to book. It will tell you the cheapest airlines that serve your route, along with how far in advance you should be booking to save the most money.

In addition, you can consult the “Price Forecast” feature to see if prices are expected to increase or decrease in the near future. If so, you can set a price alert to notify you if the cost of your flight drops.

Finding inexpensive flights can be time-consuming, but Dollar Flight Club simplifies the process by sending exclusive deals straight to your inbox. Most of their offers are 60-90% off the list price, with savings averaging around $500 .

Dollar Flight Club uses technology and historical data to find cost-saving deals. Although you can’t search for specific dates or destinations, you will still find great domestic and international deals if you’re flexible with your plans.

When you sign up for the free version of Dollar Flight Club, you’ll get one email a day for your selected departure region. Or, you can upgrade to premium to get four times as many deals for multiple departure airports. Premium members also receive instant SMS alerts as well as deals for cheap domestic flights over the weekend. Signing up for Premium Plus will give you access to their rewards program with more deals and offers for tickets for business and first-class flights.

Going was formerly known as Scott’s Cheap Flights, and it is another one of my favorite travel sites for finding affordable flights. Like Dollar Flight Club, they send emails for flight deals on domestic and international airline tickets. Most deals are 40-90% off the original price!

But instead of using an algorithm to find great deals, members of the Going team search all of the fares by hand to find deals. This goes a step above others to make this one of the best travel sites out there.

When you sign up for the free version, you’ll receive 15-20 selected deals per month. Even though you’ll select a specific airport as your preferred point of departure, it includes deals from an array of different cities. If you only want to see deals from your specific city, then you’ll want to upgrade to the premium version. Not only does the premium membership include an extra 30-35 deals per month, but it also includes error fare flights and offers for summer and holiday travel.

While Scott’s Cheap Flights has rebranded and changed the name, it’s still an awesome place to find flights for your vacation package.

• How to Find Cheap Flights
• Cheap Flight Hacks
• How to Use Google Flights
• 11 Genius Hacks to Take the Stress Out of Flying
• How I Booked an $8,967 First Class Airplane Ticket for $5.60

GetYourGuide

G adventures, intrepid travel, recommended tour companies.

Sometimes, we all need a little bit of adventure to keep us on our toes while we’re on the road.

Maybe you’re a solo traveler interested in joining a group backpacking experience through Asia. Perhaps you want an action-packed itinerary full of hiking, diving, and bungee-jumping (just make sure you have travel insurance that covers those adventure activities). Or maybe you simply want an agency to take the stress out of planning by giving you a list of all the top places you must visit. Whatever your reason, here are the best travel sites for tours and fully guided vacation packages.

GetYourGuide is a search engine with a massive database of tours and attractions in over 7,000 destinations around the globe. I’m talking more than 40,000 activities like street food tours, skiing and snowboarding trips, skip-the-line museum passes, and boat excursions. You name it, GetYourGuide has it, and their one of the best sites for finding and reserving travel activities.

If you’re visiting a new city for the first time, GetYourGuide also takes the hassle out of planning the perfect itinerary. You can reserve your spot on a tour or purchase your tickets for an event directly through their website or mobile app.

Best of all, all tours come with detailed reviews full of handy insider information, so you can hear first-hand from past clients if the activity is worth it. Not to mention, most of the offers are more affordable than if you were to book directly at the attraction itself.

It’s not the best place for all-inclusive vacation packages, but when it comes to travel sites for tours, GetYourGuide tours are a great way to soak in the culture of a city. From wine tasting to helicopter rides to snorkeling, you’ll be able to get the lowest price (guaranteed) by booking on GetYourGuide.

If group tours are more up your alley, then G Adventures is one of the best sites for you. Whether you’re traveling Europe by train, cruising through the Galapagos, or cycling through the countryside in China, there’s a tour for almost every traveler.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill group tours. G Adventures are small groups (averaging 10 travelers) that all share a common desire to explore the world. When you look online, you’ll see tours organized by travel style. You’ll be able to book vacation packages specifically catered to 18 to 30-year-olds, tours focusing on health and wellness, and even active tours for adventure lovers.

Solo travelers are also welcome to join a tour with G Adventures. Whether you’re looking for full vacation packages or short day trips, you can expect to meet some awesome people along the way.

They’ve also partnered with National Geographic to create immersive tour experiences. Whether you’re learning how to tango in Argentina or cooking authentic meals with a local Thai family, these tours will give you a deeper appreciation for your destination’s history and culture.

Intrepid Travel is like G Adventures in many ways — they offer small-group tours for adventurous travelers in more than 100 countries. Tours are divided into themes, like adventure cruising, cycling, and culinary. And if you’re interested in meeting other like-minded travelers, they have also organized trips specifically for people between the ages of 18-30.

But Intrepid sometimes goes to places where G Adventures does not, and vice versa. Intrepid also has tons of amazing deals available year-round. Many trips are discounted up to 50% and some tours can be reserved with just a $1 deposit. And if you’re eager to leave ASAP, then you can browse a variety of last-minute deals.

They’ve also partnered with Lonely Planet to create unique, niche experiences. With hundreds of single or multi-day vacation packages, you’ll be able to get off the beaten path to see the world through the eyes of a local.

But the biggest perk of traveling with Intrepid Travel comes down to the group leaders and small group sizes. You won’t feel like you’re just getting carted around because every tour is led by a local guide, meaning you get a more authentic experience.

One important note, for many trips, Intrepid requires you to have travel insurance . That’s a good idea anyway though.

Rentalcars.com

Best rental car sites.

For many trips, you’ll need to rent a car to get around once your flight arrives. Finding rental cars can be frustrating and expensive.

Fortunately, by using one of these car rental sites , you can find the best prices and reserve your vehicle ahead of time, so there’s no stress at pickup. These travel websites let you search through many car rental providers, compare pricing, and make a reservation. Here are the best travel sites for finding rental cars:

It’s all in the name here. Rentalcars.com is owned by the same company as the hotel site, Booking.com . It is a search site that lets you find car rentals and easily book them online.

Rentalcars.com has a great streamlined process for searching, filtering, and paying for your rental car. With just a few clicks you can find the best deal and have your car reserved. Plus, listings on Rentalcars.com typically have free cancellation when you book through their site. That’s a big win in my book because I hate stressing about what will happen if my flight is delayed or if I have to cancel my trip.

Rentalcars.com typically has great discounts available. In my experience, I’ve often been able to find the best prices compared to other rental car websites.

They also offer insurance directly though their site, though you may not need it if your travel insurance already covers rental cars.

Ultimately, one of the main things I look for in rental cars is the lowest price possible. Would I like to drive a BMW around on vacation? Sure. But typically I’m saving pennies for a trip and don’t want to spend them all on car rentals.

Priceline is one of the best travel websites to find low-price car rentals. They will often offer “Express Deals” which give you a much lower price than you’d get going directly through a car rental agency.

How do they do it? Priceline was the first travel site to offer “opaque rentals.” While that sounds complicated, it just means that you don’t know what car you’ll get until you pick it up. As long as you aren’t picky, this is a fantastic way to save cash on car rentals.

As a bonus, you can get package deals if you use Priceline to reserve flights, hotels, or even trips with a cruise line. They also have a loyalty program that can help you save on travel over time. For many travelers, this could be a one-stop shop for the ideal vacation package.

Unlike the other travel websites on this list, Kayak doesn’t let you reserve rental cars directly through their website. Instead, Kayak is just a big search site that filters through dozens (or maybe hundreds?) of other rental companies, travel websites, online travel agencies, and other related resources. You put in your travel dates, and Kayak gives you a list of options offering competitive prices. They then give you a link to book your car through the site or company that’s offering the deal.

The benefit of Kayak is that, because it is searching so many different travel websites, you can find great deals that other websites may not show.

If you want help with your entire trip planning process, Kayak also lets you search for flight deals, hotel deals, and even complete vacation packages.

Travel Booking Websites FAQs

What is the best travel site to book through.

Booking.com is the best (and largest) travel booking site.

Is it cheaper to book through a travel agent or online?

Booking online will almost always be cheaper than using a travel agent.

How do I get the best travel deals?

You can get great travel deals by comparing across multiple travel booking sites.

What is the best rental car site?

Rentalcars.com is our top pick for the best rental car website.

What is the best site for cheap flights?

Google Flights is always a good starting point when searching for cheap flights.

Jeremy Scott Foster

I’m curious why Airbnb is not listed, are they not a good option?

Given their high (and increasing) fees, lack of consistency and poor customer service, the TravelFreak editorial team can’t, in good faith, recommend booking with Airbnb. We do consider them to be a viable option, but can’t stand behind them as a company nor recommend them to readers.

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The Best in Travel Booking Sites

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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Not sure if that crazy deal you found is on a reliable booking site? We’ve rounded up the top options for every travel type and weighed their best (and worst) features. From getting a steal on a cruise to securing a vacation rental, here are the best travel booking sites.

The Best Booking Sites by Travel Type

• The 11 Best Flight Search Sites for Booking Cheap Airfare
• The 11 Best Hotel Booking Sites
• The 10 Best Sites for Booking a Cruise
• The 8 Best Travel Package Sites for Booking a Cheap Vacation
• The 17 Best Sites and Apps for Last-Minute Travel Deals
• The 9 Best Vacation Rental Sites for Travelers
• The 16 Best Car Rental Booking Sites
• The 5 Best Ticket Websites for Booking Day Tours and Travel Activities

Check out SmarterTravel’s roundup of the best in booking sites for 2020. Want more expert tips and vacation inspiration?  Subscribe to SmarterTravel on YouTube .

Editor’s note: You can find more information here on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected cancellation policies for booking sites like the ones included in the above stories .

More from SmarterTravel:

• The Ultimate Guide to Travel Insurance
• Everything Travelers Need to Know About REAL ID
• The Ultimate Packing List

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12 Best Apps & Websites for Booking Travel Online

by Elizabeth Gorga - Last updated on January 8, 2022

• Travel Apps

If there’s anything better than traveling, it’s the build up. Daydreaming of the perfect destination, scrolling through unique places to stay, and browsing travel guides for the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants and local must-sees are all opportunities to start wanderlusting before you’ve even packed your bags.

Be honest—how many Airbnb Stays do you have bookmarked?

True, it can be overwhelming to map out the nitty gritty flights, connections, accommodation, and pit stops when there are endless options available, but having something exciting to look forward to is one of the keys to happiness after all.

Lucky for you, there are countless apps and websites to help you with booking travel online, so you don’t have to feel overwhelmed when planning the travel adventure of your dreams.

Whether you’re an Apple or Android fan, you’ll have the time of your life in the lead up to your trip with the best travel booking apps and trip planners around!

What to look for in the best travel booking apps

You’re scrolling the app store wondering, what is the best trip planner app? There are hundreds of apps out there—how do you choose? The struggle is real. The truth is, many of them will be more useless than helpful. So how do you weed out the junk that’s clogging up your phone?

The best travel booking apps have these essential features.

1. They’re available offline.

If you’re traveling overseas, there’s no guarantee that you’ll have easy access to WiFi. Unless you have an international phone plan, a local SIM card, or don’t mind roaming charges, limited WiFi can be a killer if you want to access your travel apps in-country. The best travel booking apps have an offline version, so you can access them anywhere, anytime.

2. They include a booking service.

If you’re looking for the best travel booking app, it will definitely have a booking service included. Whether you’re looking for accommodation options or are wanting to book tickets and tours, the ability to book from the app makes everything easier. Let’s call it your one-stop-shop.

3. They have reviews.

The best way to find authentic experiences is to look for recommendations from other people, whether they’re locals or tourists who have stumbled upon hidden gems. Reviews can really make or break your travel plans. The best travel booking apps will definitely have you covered with experienced travelers’ tips and recommendations.

4. They have a translation function.

When you’re traveling between countries, it can be helpful to have a translation function on your travel apps, so you don’t have to switch between apps to get what you’re looking for. With a translation option, you can move about without language barriers, making travel easy even if you don’t speak the native tongue.

5. They have social media integration.

As simple as it sounds, the time it takes to sign up and register for a new app can be a deciding factor for many. In a world where we want information at our fingertips, it can be a turn off when it takes too much time to create a profile before you can use an app.

The best travel booking apps allow you to link your social media accounts—not only for easy access, but so you can share the highlights of your trip directly to your social accounts!

6. They have a travel planner feature.

We want more than just a place to book a bed for the night. We want an app to help us organize our itineraries, bookmark our favorite travel destinations, create schedules, and make travel easy. If you’re wondering what the best trip planner app is, you’ll know you’ve found it when you can plan your travel all in one place.

READ MORE: How to Plan a Trip When You’re Short on Time—And Cash

What is the best trip planner app 6 top contenders.

Searching for the best travel booking apps around? Here are the top apps to download before your next big trip.

1. LikeALocal

• Why it’s the best: If you’re into hole-in-the-wall restaurants and hidden spots that only the most seasoned travelers frequent, LikeALocal is the best travel booking app for you. With guides, tips, and tricks, all the content is created by true locals who have lived in the destination for years.
• The app allows you to browse destination guides, book tours, and even connect with residents through their Q&A feature—and it’s all available 100% offline.

• Why it’s the best: There’s no better way to settle into a new destination than staying in a local’s home. Airbnb is rising as one of the best travel booking apps for accommodation, offering an excellent in-between for hostels and hotels.
• Whether you want to book individual rooms or entire houses from local residents, there are options to suit most budgets. Through the app, you can easily communicate with your host, making it easy to check-in, out, and get the best tips on local hot spots.
• Available for iOS and Android.

3. HotelTonight

• Why it’s the best: While some travelers plan out every detail before leaving home, others live for spontaneity. Luckily, there’s an app for that, too. HotelTonight helps you find last-minute deals on nearby hotels, making it perfect for spur of the moment holidays or road trips with unplanned stops along the way.
• It’s easy to use, with filter options to help you find the right place to suit your needs, and booking a room for the night is just one click away.

• Why it’s the best: Are you a travel junkie? Love multi-destination travel? If you answered ‘ yes’ and you’re still wondering what the best trip planner app is, look no further than TripIt. All you have to do is forward your travel confirmation details to [email protected], and the app creates a master document for all of your travels so you can stay organized!
• You can access it any time, WiFi or dead zone. Upgrade to their paid version to receive real-time flight alerts, a currency converter, socket requirements for your destination, tipping advice, alternative routes for canceled flights, and even track your reward points.

5. Skyscanner

• Why it’s the best: If you’re looking for flights, Skyscanner is where it’s at! The app gives you access to flights from over 1,200 different sources so you can find the best options out there, whether you’re looking for the cheapest options, the fastest routes, or the most affordable days to fly.
• If you’re in the daydreaming stages and open to new possibilities, Skyscanner also has an “anywhere” option to help you find affordable flights you never knew were possible. You can even set up alerts for price dips to find the best airfare rates around.
• Available for IOS.

6. PackPoint

• Why it’s the best: For some travelers, packing can be the biggest headache when preparing for a trip. PackPoint will keep you organized and do the hard work for you. The app creates a custom packing list based on your gender, travel destination, dates and duration of travel, and the type of trip you’re planning. It even checks the weather for you!
• You can add or remove items to make it more personal and check them off as you go, making the packing experience quick and easy.

6 best travel booking websites

Prefer to sit down in front of a computer to do some brainstorming for your next trip? Then you’re probably wondering what the best travel booking website is. Here’s a round-up of the best places for booking travel online.

1. Tripadvisor

No trip is complete without a visit to Tripadvisor. Whether you’re looking for tours, hotels, transportation, restaurants, or just a little travel inspo, Tripadvisor is one of the best websites for browsing and booking travel online.

You can read reviews, save your favorites, get organized using the map features, and book travel all in one place. This site is a must when planning your next trip.

2. Intrepid

Adventure junkies love Intrepid. With small group tours to more than 100 countries, Intrepid is one of the top tour companies for solo travelers who want an adrenaline rush and connection to like-minded people. While most tours attract young travelers under 30, there is no age limit for tours through Intrepid.

Search for unique, niche experiences, from cycling the Middle East to trekking the world’s tallest mountains. With great deals all year round, you can score discounts of up to 50% and reserve your next tour for as low as $1.

3. Hostelworld

Who doesn’t love a good hostel? Backpackers on a budget can find some of the most affordable accommodation options through Hostelworld. Search for your destination, filter by price range or ratings, and find accommodation descriptions, reviews, and booking policies for hostels in over 170 countries worldwide.

The full-screen interactive map makes it easy to see if the hostel is near where you want to be—whether that’s down the street from night clubs or nature.

4. Couchsurfing

If you want a truly unique travel experience at the absolute lowest cost, why not try couch surfing? Through Couchsurfing, you can connect to locals and stay in their homes for free, saving you money and giving you access to true local experiences.

If you don’t feel comfortable staying in someone’s home, Couchsurfing also has a Hangouts feature for you to use to meet and socialize with other travelers—perfect for solo travelers!

If you’re booking travel online, Momondo is worth a browse. This flight search engine is unique to other sites, showing prices of smaller airlines and travel companies that are often overlooked by other popular search engines.

With Momondo, you can find the best times to fly using their monthly matrix, featuring the best prices and routes, no matter where you want to go. Check out the flight insights page for trends and analytics, which will give you insight into how far in advance you need to book your flights to save the most money.

6. GoAbroad

Last, but certainly not least on the list of best sites for booking travel online, is the one and only GoAbroad (that’s us!). Find your perfect program for meaningful travel abroad, with over 15,000 programs, destinations worldwide, scholarships, and insider tips.

If you want to travel abroad with purpose, GoAbroad can undoubtedly help you discover the program to help you smash your goals and make your wildest dreams come true! You can browse our Travel Resource Hub right now to get a jump start on your travel planning.

Booking travel online is fast and easy!

If you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, there’s really no excuse not to start planning your next getaway. Check out the best travel booking apps and websites to stay organized, score great deals, and quench your wanderlust. Booking travel online has never been easier! You’re just a click away from your next big adventure abroad.

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Best Online Travel Agencies

Booking.com is our top choice for making your trip arrangements

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Planning a trip can be easier through an online travel agency than if you handle each aspect of the planning separately. You can book hotels, air travel, rental cars, and more through a single site, and booking everything together sometimes results in discounts. By inputting a destination, a range of dates, and other preferences, you will see a list of options for each aspect of travel.

The best online travel agencies offer options from the largest number of airlines, hotels, car rental agencies, and more. Look for sites that offer discounts for combining reservations for different aspects of your trip. For example, the best sites will have lower rates if you book both plane tickets and a hotel through their services. The best sites also provide reviews from customers who actually have booked through the service. These are our top picks.

• Best Overall: Booking.com
• Best Budget: Skyscanner
• Best Price Predictor: Hopper
• Most Innovative: Kiwi.com
• Best for Eco-Conscious: Kind Traveler
• Best for Social Impact: I Like Local
• Best for Design-Forward Homestays: Plum Guide
• Our Top Picks
• Booking.com

Kind Traveler

I Like Local

• See More (4)

Final Verdict

Frequently asked questions, methodology, best overall : booking.com.

 Booking.com

This industry leader offers one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms on the Internet.

Lots of options to choose from

Interface is easy to use

Numerous filters to customize your search

Tricky to tell whether changes/cancellations can be made with Booking.com or the vendor directly

Booking.com was founded in 1996 and has grown into an industry leader that stands out for being one of the most comprehensive trip planning platforms out there. From one website, you can compare and book accommodations, flights (including one-way and multi-city flights), sightseeing activities, and even airport taxis. The website lists more than 28 million accommodation options, from hotels, hostels, and B&Bs to vacation homes and luxury resorts—you can browse more choices per destination on Booking.com than other online travel agencies. The website also performs well on cost and typically returns lower-than-average prices for flights and hotels. 

Booking.com's interface is also easy to use. On the home page, search for a hotel by entering your chosen destination and dates. Then, use the extensive list of filters—such as price range and distance from the city center—to narrow the results down and find the best fit. You can also search for a specific hotel, or seek inspiration by clicking through options grouped by destination or property type or by topic such as the country’s best Michelin-starred hotel restaurants or the top cities for vegan travelers. The flights, car rental, and other tabs are just as intuitive. 

Best Budget : Skyscanner

 Skyscanner

You can compare prices across airlines, hotels, and car rentals.

Simple interface

Option to toggle searches between specific dates or by monthly calendars

Search Everywhere button is great for spontaneous planners

Extra clicks are required to make a final purchase

Must read fine print for changes/cancellations—may need to deal directly with the vendor

Ads on the sidebar can be distracting

Find deals on airfare, hotels, and car rentals with an aggregator site like Skyscanner , which uses a metasearch engine to compare prices from all online travel agencies and the airline, hotel, or car rental company in question. Run searches with fixed dates, opt to compare airfare prices month to month, or click “Cheapest Month.” Searches also include options for nearby airports or non-stop flights only. With hotel searches, you can choose to select only from properties with free cancellation, a cleanliness rating of 4.5/5 or higher, or 3- or 4-starred hotels only. Car rental searches include an option to select “return car to different location.”

Once you’ve found the best rate, click on the link to be redirected to the third-party site to make your booking. Feeling spontaneous? The Search Everywhere button on the homepage offers a list of the cheapest flight deals for destinations both locally and across the world—just plug in your departure airport first.

Best Price Predictor : Hopper

The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting when flights and hotel rates will be cheapest.

Color-coded system makes it easy to determine cheapest days to buy

App is easy to use

Option to track flights and receive alerts when the best time to buy arises

Some have mentioned the app functions better as a research tool than a booking tool

Unclear whether Hopper will price match if you find a cheaper flight elsewhere

Hopper is a travel app available on iOS and Android that aims to help travelers save on airfare by usng historical data and their own algorithm to predict when flights will be cheapest. Just type in where and when you’d like to fly and Hopper will present you with a color-coded pricing calendar indicating how much tickets are likely to cost. (Green is the least expensive, then yellow, orange, and red for most expensive.) Hopper will also recommend you either buy now or wait, or you can choose to watch a trip and receive notifications on the best time to buy. In addition, the app has expanded to offer hotel and car rental price predictions, too.

Some newer features since the app’s inception in 2009 include an option to freeze a price for a limited time—for an extra fee—as well as exclusive app-only discounts. Hopper is free to download, and you can choose to book directly through the app, though some users mentioned they use Hopper as more of a research tool before booking directly with the airline or hotel. The company claims a 95 percent accuracy rate at predicting flight rates up to a year ahead.

Most Innovative : Kiwi.com

This metasearch engine scours the web to piece together the ideal itinerary using planes, trains, buses, and more.

Creative itineraries get you where you need to go, especially if you’ve got a multi-stop trip

Kiwi Guarantee offers rebooking or cancellation protections

Nomad option appeals to travelers with a lot of flexibility

Creative itineraries mean you may not fly out of the same airport you flew into

Kiwi Guarantee has an additional fee

Charges all-in-one fee for booking flights, trains, buses (though you can always purchase a la carte)

Travelers planning multi-city destinations and seeking a bargain, as well as those looking to take planes, trains, and automobiles to get there, might consider Kiwi . Kiwi is a metasearch engine that scours and pieces together itineraries from various airlines (even if they don’t have a codeshare agreement), considers multiple airports (even if your arrival airport is different from departure), and offers booking options, whether you’re looking at very specific dates or more general ones (up to 60 nights).

Some will find the ability to make multiple bookings for a particular trip more convenient than going at it manually several different times, though note that you must opt into the Kiwi Guarantee program to access rebooking and refund protections should your reservation change or be canceled. Kiwi’s Nomad option allows you to plug in a bunch of destinations you’d like to visit and the length of your intended stay, and the website will churn out the most affordable itineraries for review.

Best for Eco-Conscious : Kind Traveler

A give-and-get business model means booking accommodations with exclusive perks, a donation to environmental organizations, and more.

All participating hotels include a local give-back component

Exclusive savings and perks

Participating hotels are located in some of the most beautiful places in the world

Inventory is much smaller compared to other booking platforms

Some of the amenities mentioned are based on availability only

In 2022, Kind Traveler (an online trave agency focused on hotel bookings) announced an increase in environmentally and socially conscious hotels, charity donations, voluntourism opportunities, and additional perks like waived resort fees or a welcome amenity.

Unlock exclusive hotel rates and perks from participating Kind Traveler hotels with a minimum $10/night minimum donation to a local charity. For example, stay at the Six Senses Laamu in the Maldives and receive up to $33 off the nightly rate and perks such as a food and beverage credit and an Earth Lab or Alchemy Bar workshop when you make a donation to Manta Trust. The organization funds coastal research to protect the island nation’s large yet fragile population of reef mantas.

Select from more than 140 participating hotels from the Hawaiian Islands to Bozeman, Montana, and the Maldives. Charities include wildlife, human rights, arts, education, and environmental preservation organizations.

Best for Social Impact : I Like Local

Choose from a host of travel experiences with the peace of mind that 100 percent of the cost goes directly to local partners.

Social impact mission woven into organization’s business model

Immersive experiences led by local guides

Range of experiences offered

May not be best fit for those seeking upscale, luxury experiences and stays

Can’t sort experiences by a list of countries (though an interactive map is available)

No experiences outside of Africa and Asia

For an online travel agency with a booking platform designed to route dollars spent directly to the communities travelers intend to visit, consider I Like Local . Visit the website to browse a host of travel experiences in countries including Indonesia, Kenya, and Cambodia. Experiences include homestays and farmstays as well as wellness and culturally oriented experiences—from cooking and cycling tours to weaving classes.

To search for an experience, select from drop-down items like travel dates and experience categories, or view a global map and click on a country to view experiences that way.

The platform got its start in 2014 and has grown to 4,000 local hosts across nearly 20 countries. As a social impact organization, 100 percent of each booking fee goes to local hosts. To date, 16,000 travelers have booked with I Like Local.

Best for Design-Forward Homestays : Plum Guide

Browse and book seriously vetted, design-forward vacation homes.

Highly curated inventory of vacation rentals across the world

Design-forward

Thorough vetting process

Does not publish guest reviews

Other platforms have homes available across more destinations

When it comes to booking a vacation home, serviced apartment, or condo, travelers are spoiled for choice. Plum Guide is an online travel agency that specializes in accommodations—though not just any home makes its directory. The company claims that each potential home listed on its site must jump through 150 hoops to be included, from internet speed and mattress and pillow quality to the showers’ water pressure and the home’s proximity to dining, shopping, and attractions.

Search by a featured collection on the website such as “ pet-friendly homes ” or “one-of-a-kind homes in Palm Springs.” Scroll to the bottom of its homepage to view its top destinations, as well as a list of all destinations where Plum Guide homes are available, including Barbados, Mexico, Portugal, Switzerland, the U.S., and Turkey. Note: From the top right-hand corner of the site, use the dropdown menu to select currency of choice.

As long as you know what you value most out of your travel experience—such as affordability, social impact, or luxe accommodations—there’s an online travel agency to help plan your next trip. Be sure to read the fine print, as some agencies are third-party websites and not direct vendors. If you're not sure where to start, Booking.com is your best bet for a smooth user experience and hard-to-beat offers on flights, hotels, and other travel arrangements.

What Is the Biggest Travel Agency?

Our choice for best overall, Booking.com, is known as an industry leader with listings for all major hotels, airlines, car rental companies, and more. It boasts more choices for accommodations per destination than any other site, and we found its interface to be user-friendly.

Are Online Travel Agencies Worth It?

This depends on your needs and priorities. The best online travel agencies certainly can save time by booking everything all at once. However, if you're someone who is good at haggling and enjoys the details of planning a trip, you might be able to find better deals by reaching out to hotels or other destinations and speaking to someone personally.

Is It Cheaper to Book Online Than With a Travel Agent?

Not always. A travel agent you know and trust should have the experience and connections to find deals that can match or surpass what you'll find online. Additionally, if something goes wrong, travel agents provide you with an actual person you can use as an advocate to correct the problem . But if you don't have access to a good travel agent, online sites still provide plenty of ways to streamline planning and save money .

We considered dozens of online travel agencies and narrowed down the options based on user experience, volume and quality of inventory, unique offerings and specials, and customer reviews. We also assessed travel companies’ environmentally and socially conscious policies.

Catherine Falls Commercial / Getty Images

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Travel Book Types (For Aspiring Travel Entrepreneurs)

POSTED ON Nov 29, 2023

Written by P.J McNulty

For travel entrepreneurs, writing a book offers a unique avenue to share experiences, insights, and expertise. As a travel blogger, service owner, or industry expert, a book not only chronicles your journey but also enhances your brand and business.

Need A Nonfiction Book Outline?

This article delves into twelve types of books that travel entrepreneurs can author, each providing a distinct perspective and opportunity to engage with a wider audience.

• Comprehensive Destination Guides Destination guides authored by travel entrepreneurs are invaluable for readers seeking a blend of popular spots and hidden treasures. These guides can delve into various aspects of a destination – from its history and culture to its culinary scene and entertainment options. Beyond just listing places to visit, you can offer practical advice on navigating the locale, respecting local customs, and finding off-the-beaten-path experiences. Additionally, these guides can include personal anecdotes, making them more relatable and engaging. By providing a mix of practical information, personal insights, and cultural context, your guide can become a go-to resource for travelers, enhancing your credibility and opening up partnership opportunities with local businesses and tourism boards.
• Engaging Travel Memoirs Travel memoirs allow you to share your personal experiences and the transformative power of travel. These books can be structured around a particular journey or a series of travels, offering insights into the challenges faced and the growth experienced. You can discuss how travel has changed your perspective, the life lessons learned, and the memorable interactions with locals. A well-crafted memoir not only serves as an inspiration for others but also strengthens your personal brand. It allows readers to connect with you on a deeper level, fostering loyalty and interest in your other travel ventures. Memoirs can also open opportunities for speaking engagements and workshops, where you can share your stories and insights in a more personal setting.
• Adventure Travel Chronicles Books focusing on adventure travel can captivate readers with tales of exhilaration and endurance. Whether it's scaling mountains, exploring underwater caves, or trekking through jungles, these narratives can be both thrilling and educational. You can include detailed accounts of the planning and execution of these adventures, offering tips and advice for those looking to embark on similar journeys. These chronicles can also discuss the environmental and cultural impact of adventure travel, encouraging responsible and sustainable practices. By sharing both the highs and lows of such experiences, you can offer a balanced view of adventure travel, appealing to a broad range of readers from seasoned adventurers to novices.
• In-Depth Cultural Exploration Books Books focusing on the cultural aspects of travel can offer readers a deeper understanding of the destinations you cover. These can range from in-depth analyses of historical sites and traditions to personal experiences with unique cultural practices. You can explore how culture shapes the way people live, eat, celebrate, and interact. Such books are not just travelogues; they are educational resources that foster appreciation and understanding of global diversity. They can attract readers interested in anthropology, history, and sociology, making them suitable for academic settings as well as general readership. This type of book can also lead to collaboration with cultural experts and institutions, enhancing your credibility as a travel expert.
• Sustainable and Eco-Travel Guides Writing about sustainable and eco-friendly travel practices is increasingly relevant. You can share your experiences with sustainable travel, offering insights into how to travel responsibly. These guides can cover topics such as eco-friendly accommodations, conservation efforts at various destinations, and how to minimize one's carbon footprint while traveling. By highlighting the importance of sustainable travel, these books can appeal to a growing segment of environmentally conscious travelers. They can also serve as a guide for travel businesses looking to adopt more sustainable practices. Collaborating with environmental organizations and participating in eco-travel forums can further amplify your impact and reach.
• Travel Photography Books with a Narrative Travel photography books that combine stunning visuals with compelling narratives offer a unique way to tell travel stories. These books can range from focused themes, like landscapes or cityscapes, to a more eclectic mix of images capturing the essence of various destinations. Accompanying narratives can provide context to the images, sharing the stories behind them and offering insights into your experiences capturing these moments. This genre can appeal to a broad audience, from photography enthusiasts to casual travelers. It also offers potential for exhibitions and collaborations with art galleries or travel magazines. A well-produced photography book can become a coveted item for collectors and a visually stunning representation of your brand.
• Culinary Travel Journeys Culinary travel books can take readers on a gastronomic journey around the world. These books can include a mix of recipes, stories about local food traditions, and your personal experiences discovering and enjoying various cuisines. You can also delve into the cultural significance of certain dishes and how they are prepared and enjoyed in different regions. This type of book can attract food enthusiasts and travelers alike, offering a taste of different cultures through their culinary delights. It can lead to opportunities like hosting culinary tours, cooking demonstrations, or collaborations with food and beverage brands. Culinary travel books can also be used as a platform to discuss broader issues like food sustainability and cultural preservation.
• Solo Travel Handbooks Solo travel guides can offer a mix of personal stories and practical advice. These books can cover a range of topics, from preparing for a solo journey and overcoming challenges to making the most of the experience. You can include tips on budgeting, safety, and making meaningful connections while traveling alone. Writing about solo travel can inspire others to explore the world independently, and your book can become a trusted resource for both first-time and experienced solo travelers. It can also lead to speaking opportunities and workshops focused on empowering solo travelers.
• Family Travel Companions Family travel books can provide valuable insights and tips for traveling with children. You can cover topics like planning family-friendly itineraries, keeping kids engaged and entertained during travels, and balancing adult and child interests. Including personal anecdotes and experiences can make the book relatable and practical for families planning their travels. This type of book can resonate with a growing market of family travelers, offering a combination of guidance, reassurance, and inspiration. It can lead to collaborations with family-oriented travel brands, resorts, and publications, positioning you as an expert in family travel.
• Comprehensive Budget Travel Guides Budget travel books can guide readers on how to explore the world affordably. These guides can include tips on finding deals, traveling off-season, using travel rewards effectively, and discovering low-cost or free experiences in various destinations. You can also discuss how to travel sustainably on a budget, combining cost-saving strategies with eco-friendly practices. Appealing to budget-conscious travelers, especially millennials and students, these guides can help demystify the notion that travel is always expensive. They can lead to partnerships with budget travel agencies, hostels, and travel gear companies, enhancing your brand's reach in the budget travel market.
• Luxurious Travel Chronicles If your niche is luxury travel, a book detailing exclusive experiences and destinations can captivate a high-end audience. You can discuss the world of bespoke travel, from private jet journeys to exclusive island retreats. Including insights into the luxury travel market, trends, and what constitutes a truly luxurious experience can add depth to your book. This type of book can attract affluent readers and establish you as an authority in luxury travel. It can open doors to collaborations with high-end travel brands, luxury resorts, and exclusive events, enhancing your brand’s prestige in the luxury travel market.
• Insightful Travel Business Books For those with experience in the travel industry, a book sharing business insights can be highly beneficial. You can cover topics like starting a travel business, adapting to market changes, digital marketing strategies for travel brands, and creating memorable customer experiences. Sharing your journey and the lessons learned can be both inspiring and educational for aspiring entrepreneurs. This type of book appeals to budding travel entrepreneurs and can establish you as a thought leader in the industry. It can lead to speaking engagements, consulting opportunities, and collaborations with travel start-ups and educational institutions. As a travel entrepreneur, you possess a wealth of experiences and insights that can translate into compelling written works. Whether your focus is on sharing practical advice, inspiring through personal stories, or offering a visual feast through photography, there is a book within you that can broaden your reach, enhance your brand, and contribute meaningfully to the world of travel. Embrace the journey of authorship and let your book be a passport to new opportunities and lasting impact in the vibrant world of travel.

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Top 10 Online Travel Booking Systems in 2024

What is an online travel booking system, main features of an online travel booking system.

• A user-friendly interface that enables users to search for and book travel services based on their preferences.
• Secure online booking and payment processing.
• Real-time availability and pricing information.
• Travel itinerary and reservation management tools.
• Customer support and traveler assistance.
• Reporting and analytics capabilities.

Best online travel booking systems for B2B

Online travel booking systems for companies, 1. travelperk.

TravelPerk main features

• An intuitive, user-friendly online booking platform -- all traveler data, preferences, and loyalty points are stored.
• Integrated travel policy and approval flows .
• A simplified travel expense process with real-time expense reports.
• FlexiPerk , an add-on that allows users to cancel their travel plans up to two hours before departure with a guaranteed refund of 80%.
• 24/7 business travel assistance with a target 15-second response rate from the 7* customer care team.
• A VAT recovery solution to help businesses save up to 25% on business travel expenses.
• TravelCare , a travel safety and alerts system.
• Centralized invoicing for all business travel, eliminating the need to send invoice requests and reminders.
• A vast catalog of integrations with third-party software .
• Trip Assistant -- a mobile app available on iOS and Android -- that stores all trip information in one place, even when you’re offline.

How customers rate TravelPerk

• G2 rating : 4.5 / 5 stars, based on 1,533 reviews (as of February 2024)
• Capterra rating : 4.8 / 5 stars, based on 402 reviews (as of February 2024)

TravelPerk pricing

• Starter: The first 5 bookings each month are free, with a 5% booking fee thereafter.
• Premium: $99/month with a 3% booking fee. Includes concierge services for special requests and savings of up to 25% with VAT-ready invoices..
• Pro: $299/month with a 3% booking fee. Includes unlimited policy and approval workflows, unlimited budgets by cost center, and access to negotiated rates.
• Enterprise: Designed for enterprise businesses that need customized requirements. To find out more about this plan, get in touch with an expert .

Start saving money on business travel for your company today!

2. sap concur.

SAP Concur main features

• Automated expense reporting and reimbursements.
• Self-booking for flights, hotels, trains, and car rentals through the platform.
• Real-time alerts, notifications, and reminders for traveling employees.

How customers rate SAP Concur

• G2 rating : 4 / 5 stars, based on 5,996 reviews (as of February 2024)
• Capterra rating : 4.3 / 5 stars, based on 2,004 reviews (as of February 2024)

SAP Concur pricing

Click below to compare travelperk and sap concur’s features and benefits, travel booking systems for travel agencies.

Ezus main features

• Automated trip costing and dynamic pricing options.
• Creation of mini travel websites for each project.
• Centralized customer relationship management software (CRM) features and travel portal for visibility into customer history and upcoming opportunities.

How customers rate Ezus

• G2 rating : 5 / 5 stars, based on 11 reviews (as of February 2024)
• Capterra rating : 4.6 / 5 stars, based on 33 reviews (as of February 2024)

Ezus pricing

• Starter: $139/month when billed monthly.
• Professional: $399/month when billed monthly.
• Premium: $849/month when billed monthly.
• Enterprise: Customized subscriptions for larger enterprises.

2. Travelport

Travelport main features

• Itinerary management, fare shopping, and ancillary service integration, including extra travel products such as baggage options, seat upgrades, and in-flight services.
• Personalized and branded itineraries.
• The “Productivity Automator” feature is designed to streamline workflows and reduce the number of manual back-office tasks.

How customers rate Travelport

• G2 rating : 4.5 / 5 stars, based on 1 review (as of February 2024)
• Capterra rating : 4.5 / 5 stars, based on 4 reviews (as of February 2024)

Travelport pricing

Travel booking systems for tour operators, 1. siteminder.

SiteMinder’s main features

• Hotel website builder with templates to showcase unique branding.
• Rates are updated in real-time across all channels to prevent rate disparities.
• Optimized pricing with revenue management systems that dynamically adjust rates based on factors such as demand, competitor pricing, and market conditions.

How customers rate SiteMinder

• G2 rating : 4.3 / 5 stars, based on 24 reviews (as of February 2024)
• Capterra rating : 4.1 / 5 stars, based on 174 reviews (as of February 2024)

SiteMinder pricing

• SiteMinder: Starts at $99/month and is aimed at independent properties looking for channel management, performance and insights, and property management system (PMS) integration.
• SiteMinder Plus: Starts at $129/month and is aimed at independent properties that want all of the SiteMinder features plus a booking engine, hotel website builder, and competitor intelligence.
• SiteMinder Groups and Chains: This plan is aimed at groups and chains. Pricing is customized and can be obtained by contacting SiteMinder directly.

2. HotelBeds

HotelBeds’ main features

• Ancillary products including tours and attractions.
• A booking API helps users choose flexible booking dates, filter hotels under different metrics, and obtain upgrades.
• Features to help tour operators manage bookings and access reporting and analytics.

HotelBeds pricing

3. flights logic.

Flights Logic’s main features

• Automated fare loader helps users stay ahead of competitors.
• Booking software helps tour operators accept online bookings from various platforms.
• Tour operators can accept online payments from their chosen payment gateways.

Best online travel booking systems for B2C

1. skyscanner.

SkyScanner key features

• Search filters including layovers, departure times, and airlines.
• Real-time pricing and flight availability information.
• Multi-city search functionality enables users to search for flights with multiple destinations.

How customers rate Skyscanner

2. booking.com.

Booking.com main features

• Search filters including budget, property rating, and property type.
• Guest reviews and ratings for each property.
• Flexible booking options including free cancellation and the ability to modify bookings within certain timeframes.

3. Rental Cars

Rental Cars main features

• Search for, compare, and book a range of vehicle types and sizes.
• One-way rentals, long-term rentals, and flexible pickup and drop-off locations.
• Multilingual customer support.

How customers rate Rental Cars

Make business travel simpler. Forever.

• See our platform in action . Trusted by thousands of companies worldwide, TravelPerk makes business travel simpler to manage with more flexibility, full control of spending with easy reporting, and options to offset your carbon footprint.
• Find hundreds of resources on all things business travel, from tips on traveling more sustainably, to advice on setting up a business travel policy, and managing your expenses. Our latest e-books and blog posts have you covered.
• Never miss another update. Stay in touch with us on social for the latest product releases, upcoming events, and articles fresh off the press.

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Online vs offline travel bookings: which is right for you?

By Kevin Tjoe — 19 May 2015

agent bookings   offline bookings   online bookings

Updated January 2024 – Bookings are the lifeblood of your tourism business and crucial for its success. There are now various booking systems for customers to interact with your company, either through online software or traditional offline measures. When choosing between online and offline booking systems, you may find online booking software offers advantages in convenience, reliability, and efficiency, but that more traditional methods have a more interpersonal feel.

Bookings can also be made directly through your media channels or through indirect means, including travel agents. Rezdy’s blog contains more information on the difference between these two types of booking systems and how to increase bookings across both channels .

The personal touch of offline booking

Offline booking systems are a more traditional method of making reservations through tour companies. Visiting the office of the tour operator and processing the booking adds an interpersonal feel that is arguably absent from online booking software. This human connection is one of the main advantages of offline tour reservations. However, offline booking systems take time, and in some cases money, to use. 

The rise of online tour bookings

Online booking convenience for tourists means this type of software has become increasingly popular with consumers. The benefits of online booking for tours include easy and reliable management of the booking system and faster responses to bookings lodged outside of business hours. Readily available booking systems have transformed the way tour operators accept reservations, allowing for round-the-clock international service. Rezdy’s online booking system allows tour companies to optimize and streamline their booking systems.

Online vs offline bookings

The best way to book travel is subjective, and changes from activity to activity and person to person. It’s important to consider the different types of booking systems when trying to attract a broad range of new customers.

Offline direct bookings

It may seem old-fashioned, but your business still needs offline bookings in order to survive. For complex demands, it can be extremely useful for bookers to first chat with someone for advice before making a final decision. Sometimes automated systems lack the functionality to book a complicated trip in a timely and cost-effective way. This is especially true when the booker has a limited budget or special requirements that have to be met. A tour operator can more easily cater to requests made through offline bookings in comparison to those made with an automated online booking system.

To get more bookings offline, developing a positive brand identity and reliable reputation in your community is essential.

Why customers choose offline bookings

Offline booking systems offer a personalized touch that online software does not. Travelers may seek an offline booking service through your tour company if they are after expert advice, reassurance, or just a second opinion. Customers may also utilize an offline booking service if they are planning a complex trip that involves specialist services.

For tour operators, offline bookings can enhance customer trust and loyalty in your business. Certain customers may also take comfort in knowing there was a human element involved in personalizing their travel experience.

Tips for getting offline direct bookings

Here are a few tips for increasing your point-of-sale bookings from walk-ins and phone calls:

• Use traditional advertising methods like brochures in hotels and visitor centers, and flyers around your city.
• Make connections with the local visitor center in your area, who may direct customers who are currently on holiday in your area right to your doorstep.
• Develop a positive relationship with hotel concierges in the region. Concierges are relied upon for personalized advice and recommendations.

Online bookings

Online bookings play a major role in the success of any tour and activity business.

Today, many travelers use the Internet in order to create their own itineraries, and they want to be able to book their tours and activities quickly and easily. There are many different types of online booking systems and tools, meaning there are plenty of easy-to-use online booking options for customers regardless of their tech knowledge. The internet holds an infinite amount of travel advice and allows travelers to curate their perfect vacation plan based on online reviews and photos. Plus, online booking allows travelers the option to organize their travel schedule at any time of the day, while also providing assurance they can easily cancel or change their plans.

Also, travelers are increasingly relying on social media sites to provide inspiration for their holiday plans. In a sense, social media is the modern travel guidebook. Searching #travel on Instagram renders over 611 million results.

Why customers book online

The benefits of online booking for tours are numerous. Online booking systems offer customers a quick and easy way to plan, book, and pay for their next holiday. Customers may prefer doing their own research and comparing the costs and features of various travel activities and accommodation. Additionally, the ability to plan and book their next trip away entirely from the comfort of their own home holds appeal to many people. Online booking sites are often customizable, allowing customers to personalize their preferences when booking their holidays. These features have been instrumental in building trust in online tour bookings. 

Tips for getting online bookings

Here are some tips for boosting your online bookings (regardless of which type of booking system you use):

• Manage your business’s reputation on TripAdvisor . TripAdvisor is one of the most reliable sources of travel information, and many of your customers will be checking for your business there. Professional replies to reviews can give potential customers a favorable perspective on your company.
• Diversify your online distribution . Create coupon deals with daily deal sites like Groupon. Network with online travel agents. Stay involved on social media. Sites such as Facebook and Instagram are ideal for engaging with customers and generating brand awareness. Also, when using social media sites, remember to add a location to your posts and use popular hashtags to attract more followers. 
• Invest in an easy-to-use online booking system that is designed to automate the booking process.

When to switch to an online booking system

In today’s fast-paced digital world, the efficiency and accessibility of tour and activity booking systems have become essential for the success of tour and activity businesses. Deciding when to transition from traditional offline methods to an online booking system requires careful consideration.

At Rezdy, we understand the importance of a smooth transition to online bookings without disrupting your business operations. With our user-friendly platform, tour operators can effortlessly manage bookings, streamline operations, and enhance the customer experience.

Personalized advice

We work closely with each of our customers to understand their specific needs and goals. Whether you’re a small startup or a large tour operator, during the onboarding stage and beyond, we’ll provide tailored solutions and advice to optimize your booking process and drive business growth.

Zero downtime setup

When you choose Rezdy, there’s no need to worry about downtime during setup. Our expert team ensures a seamless transition, allowing you to continue accepting bookings without interruption.

24/7 live chat support

We’re committed to providing exceptional support to our customers. With 24/7 live chat assistance, Rezdy users have access to immediate support whenever they need it.

Bookings through travel agents

While many travelers can use the Internet in order to create their own vacation itineraries, the expertise and knowledge of travel agents means it is arguably the best way to book travel packages. This means it is important for tour operators to maintain correspondence with travel agents to attract new customers. When comparing online and offline travel agencies, you may find networking with online travel agents and retail travel agents will help you boost your bookings. Travel expos and online travel agent groups are two ways you can liaise with travel agents and forge new connections.

Ultimately, growing your business will result in strengthening contacts with travel agents. 

Why customers book through an agent

Similar to offline booking systems, travel agents offer personalized service to customers. They are capable of handling complicated itineraries and soliciting professional advice for customers. Additionally, travel agents can pass on exclusive deals and upgrades for your accommodation or activity that may not be available anywhere else. Another important convenience factor of using a travel agent is that they represent a single point of contact for all arrangements made for your trip.

Tips for getting bookings through travel agents

Here are a few other tips for increasing your bookings through travel agents:

• Network with agents and let them know that they can earn a commission by booking through your online booking system. This will entice them to sell your tours and activities because it is beneficial to them.
• Remember that agents will be cross-referencing your information with reviews placed online. Respond to all reviews, and do so as quickly as possible. Make online reputation management a top priority. You can also opt to team up with a professional reputation management agency to help you monitor and respond to reviews around the web.
• Team up with other tour and activity providers in your area that complement the services you offer. Create a package deal that travel agents can sell to their customers.

Both online and offline booking systems have their place in tourism companies. Online systems allow convenient and accessible round-the-clock booking, while offline systems and travel agents offer expertise and compassion.

For your online needs, Rezdy booking software saves time and energy by allowing tour operators to manage bookings with a single, easy-to-use platform. 

Curious to see whether Rezdy is right for you? Start a FREE 21-day trial or book a free demo today.

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Travel and Booking APIs for Online Travel and Tourism Service Providers

• 36 min read
• Engineering ,   Travel
• 13 Jan, 2023
• 13 Comments Share

Back in 2017, TripAdvisor and comScore suggested that travelers make 10 to 34 website visits on average to book their trips. While this seems like a lot for booking hotels, for instance, travelers visit only 4.4 unique websites, according to the study by Fuel and Flip.to . People prefer to make their reservations through ‘all-in-one-place’ platforms. They’ve reshaped user experience unifying and eventually simplifying it for average travelers. One of the reasons is that travel industry players have become a lot more open to sharing data with each other. A good example of this is Uber which in 2014 allowed third parties to incorporate Ride Requests functionality in their applications. Today, your local sightseeing app can let users commute from one landmark to another without switching apps.

Travel APIs: main types and how they work

In tech terminology, the key to this growing connectivity is an API . An application programming interface allows for sharing data streams and functionalities between different systems. APIs work as control panels for developers to link software components without dealing with source code.

API principles explained.

What does this mean for the travel industry? If you run a hotel business, you can let your customers rent a car straight from your website by integrating your booking website with available local car rental services. This may put a car-rental commission in your pocket or just spare your customers the trouble of browsing the web to rent a car. So, let’s talk about the most important types of APIs used to unify travel industry features and information. Warning, it’s going to be a long read, so you may hop to one of the 13 sections that seem interesting by navigating the menu to the right if you’re on a desktop:

• Flight search and booking by GDSs and OTAs

NDC integration for merchandising and rich content

• Flight data, schedules, and fares

Direct hotel booking with PMSs and channel managers

• Hotel booking with aggregators: GDSs, connectivity providers, and switches
• Wholesale hotel booking with bed banks
• Partner hotel booking with OTAs
• Hotel mapping
• Car rental booking
• Business travel management and expense tracking
• Reviews and ratings
• Tours, attractions, and experiences
• Public transportation

Flight search and booking APIs by GDSs and OTAs

Main users: OTAs, TMCs, travel application providers Read more here: Flight and air booking APIs , GDSs compared , Low-cost booking APIs There are generally two main types of players that can help you with travel search, availability, and booking. The first one includes global distribution systems (GDSs), the main aggregators in the industry. They go together with “aggregators of aggregators,” the systems that are built on top of GDSs to merge their offers. The second group consists of online travel agencies that have affiliate programs to help smaller players enter the market. To learn more about flight distribution, check our video:

Flight distribution in a nutshell (by the way, subscribe to our channel. We’ll be releasing more such explainer videos)

GDS market shares differ across regions

Amadeus flight APIs

Amadeus is one of the major GDSs and originates from Europe. In November 2018, the company launched a new portal Amadeus for Developers with sets of air, hotel, and other travel APIs. (We use the word “sets” because there’s no single API for all data services available.) In this section, we’ll focus on flight APIs. Fran Romero, Head of Open Innovation Programs at Amadeus, made comments to AltexSoft about the platform: “ The Amadeus for Developers is designed to speed up innovation and to inspire new ideas by empowering those at the forefront of travel, offering quick and easy access to travel APIs, and fostering collaboration across the community of developers. Through the portal, developers can take advantage of Amadeus APIs alongside the tools, resources, and support they need to build and launch their applications quickly.” Currently, Amadeus APIs are shipped in two flavors. Self-Service APIs meet the needs of startups and travel businesses with no IATA or ARC certification. These APIs use JSON format for data exchange and modern REST architecture which makes them easy to integrate. As Alvaro Navarro, a Developer Advocate at Amadeus, notes, “The Self-Service APIs are designed to be used not only for prototyping, but also for commercial purposes, and the access to production is fully automated with self-service processes.” The suite allows you to

• search and compare flights and fares (including lowest fares, most booked destinations, cheapest dates, and so on);
• book flights; and
• analyze flight prices, predict arrival and departure delays, and more (AI-based services)

However, ticketing can only be done through consolidators, and you don’t get access to negotiated or corporate fares. Self-service APIs support only public fares. Enterprise APIs target mature businesses building large travel applications. The Enterprise subscription connects you to nearly 200 APIs, including

• new REST APIs from the Self-Service suite; and
• older SOAP APIs that rely on the XML data format and provide broader functionality. For example, only this catalog gives you access to flights operated by low-cost airlines.

Learn more about the subject from our Practice Guide to Amadeus API Integration .

Sabre flight APIs

Sabre is another major GDS and the pioneer in the world of automated booking. There are literally hundreds of Sabre APIs in REST and SOAP formats that cover pretty much the same set of functions that Amadeus provides. In terms of flight distribution, Sabre offers:

• flight search, including alternate dates or airports, basic fares, rules, etc.;
• flight booking and ticketing;
• payments and pricing;
• reservation management (itineraries, PNRs , etc.)
• seat maps; and
• reporting and data analytics (e.g., top destinations, low fare history, and others)

If you’re considering Sabre API integration, you can contact us. In September 2020, AltexSoft became Sabre’s authorized development partner after we had completed a number of integrations for agencies and other businesses. Read our article Sabre API Integration: Hands-On Experience with a Leading GDS to dive deeper into details.

Travelport flight APIs

Travelport unites three GDS systems: Apollo, Worldspan, and Galileo. Unlike Amadeus and Sabre, it provides a single point of access to the inventory of the three GDSs that preserve their brand names. Travelport Universal API uses SOAP/XML formats and embraces

• air shopping and booking;
• fares and ancillaries;
• air content and merchandising; and

Travelport also offers RESTful JSON API  collections that generally overlap with the Universal API, but are more lightweight, faster, and optimized for mobile search and booking. In terms of flight services, they cover

• air search and booking,
• ticketing, and
• payment support.

If you want to dive deeper into the difference between GDSs, read our dedicated GDS article . Besides GDSs, you can try working with other aggregators.

Travelfusion API

Travelfusion is a flight and accommodation aggregator that works with over 400 low-cost carriers and scheduled airlines. The company offers

• Direct Connect XML API that ensures real-time availability and a fully automated booking process; and
• Fast API , a new and lightweight product for rapid integration with any platform and creating a wide range of solutions, including widgets and mobile services.

Flight search and booking functionality can be also provided in JSON format. Besides that, Travelfusion actively supports the IATA NDC initiative.

Kiwi.com is a Czech OTA known for its powerful flight search engine that connects to about 750 airlines, including over 250 low-cost carriers . The platform also provides virtual interlining services — in other words, it combines separate flights into seamless itineraries. After registration, you can use their set of APIs to

• find carrier IDs and logos;
• acquire data on locations (cities, airports, and more);
• search for itineraries — one-way and return flights, multiple city trips, and the cheapest routes possible (NOMAD feature);
• book flights and order baggage; and
• confirm payments and process refunds.

Besides that, KIwi.com APIs allow you to connect air and ground routes making train and bus transfers to and from an airport a part of the itinerary.

FlightsLogic Flight API

FlightsLogic Flight API provides flight data, seat availability, fares, and payment features. It connects travel agencies, tour operators, B2B travel platforms, and other businesses to over 200 low-cost carriers and over 700 GDS airlines. The API can be integrated with Android and iOS apps and websites.

Main users: OTAs aiming at distributing rich content, larger OTAs, innovative travel application providers Read more here: NDC connections and APIs Besides traditional flight booking, there’s a growing trend of flight merchandising advanced by airlines and IATA . New Distribution Capability (NDC) standard based on XML allows carriers to offer rich content (images, reviews, seat maps, etc.), a broader set of ancillaries, and personalization — things that were limited in GDS-centered distribution. Initially, NDC was considered the way to bypass GDSs entirely and build carriers’ own APIs to directly connect to OTAs and TMCs ( travel management companies ). But things have changed and today there are three main ways to use NDC, including connections implemented by GDSs. GDSs NDC. Unsurprisingly, global distribution systems aren’t excited about losing their market. While it’s hard to find actual NDC API documentation, you may directly contact Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport for NDC connection purposes. In most cases, NDC capabilities aimed at travel agencies and other resellers are in development, while GDSs focus more on helping airlines build NDC pipelines on their sides. We elaborate on how to implement NDC technology for airlines in our dedicated article. NDC by tech providers. A number of the industry's leading technology companies like ATPCO, SITA, and Farelogix which we’ll talk about below have worked with airlines to build NDC APIs for them. NDC by airlines. Many airlines embarked on offering NDC APIs themselves. These include Lufthansa , British Airways , Flydubai , Air France-KLM , Singapore Airlines , and others. Now, let’s reference some key APIs you can try for NDC.

Amadeus NDC

Amadeus provides NDC capabilities in their Enterprise subscription, via XML/SOAP APIs. Upon establishing this integration, you’ll be able to:

• search for NDC flight offers and combine them with non-NDC content;
• get prices and enable users to customize flights;
• create bookings (orders) and generate booking references (PNRs); and
• handle payments and ticket issuance.

Currently, you can search for and book rich content from American Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Air France-KLM, and Qantas (the last is still in piloting mode.) More carriers are to be added soon — including British Airways, Iberia, United Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, and Cathay Pacific. Note that some carriers require separate seller agreements to deliver NDC offers.

Sabre provides NDC connectivity via Offer and Order APIs. Yet, to use them you need special credentials, so contact your Sabre Account Representative for assistance. Once you gain access to NDC-enabled APIs, you’ll be able to

• shop for airline NDC and non-NDC air offers (including LCC flights), hotels, and car rentals;
• validate prices;
• create, view, change, fulfill and cancel orders (the API doesn’t support ancillaries though); and
• refund tickets where fare rules allow for this.

Depending on a specific airline, you can get rich content and personalized bundles. While carriers push their offers in XML – which is what NDC requires – Sabre provides the REST/JSON interface for using them. Keep in mind that NDC-enabled APIs are in development and as of this writing they only work with rich content from Avianca Group , Qatar Airways , Qantas, Singapore Airlines, and United Airlines. The NDC connection with American Airlines is expected to go live in April 2023.

Travelport NDC

Travelport made NDC content accessible via their Air APIs, in addition to standard GDS offers. Currently, only four carriers have NDC integrations with the GDS — namely, American Airlines, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, and United Airlines. To shop and book NDC offers, you have to negotiate this type of connection with both Travelport and the airline itself. The NDC will empower you to

• shop for different air products including branded fares (net fares are accessible via GDS connection only) and ancillaries (paid bags, carbon offset , etc.);
• confirm pricing for air search results (required for LCCs and some NDC carriers);
• retrieve frequent flyer details (available for Qantas only),
• reserve paid seats during the initial booking session;
• create reservations and issue tickets during the initial booking session;
• modify a passenger name (for American Airlines only) and itinerary; and
• void, cancel, exchange, and refund tickets.

NDC APIs here support both XML and JSON formats being also RESTful .

ATPCO Routehappy content and NDC

Routehappy APIs offer content for sales channels. These JSON APIs provide information about amenities and distribute product and ticket attributes from 300 airlines. Some of this data comes via NDC channels. All Routehappy content can be divided into three groups:

• UPAs (Universal Product Attributes) -- images, cabin descriptions, seat infographics, language translations, etc.;
• Amenities -- food and beverages, Wi-Fi, seatback videos, power outlets, etc.; and
• UTAs (Universal Ticket Attributes) -- all ticket rules, including consolation allowances, upgrades, priority check-in, etc.

tfFlight API by TravelFusion

tfFlight API is a one-stop solution for booking flights and ancillaries from LCCs, full-service carriers, and consolidators. It claims access to all low-cost airlines currently existing. The API supports NDC, sourcing rich content from 42 carriers.

Duffel Flights API

Duffel is a London-based startup that links travel distributors to over 300 carriers via a unified Flights API. It maintains direct connections with nearly 30 carriers, while all others are accessible through Travelport GDS. The company promises the easiest and fastest integration process possible, with almost instant access to functionality needed for selling flights. Besides search and booking, the API enables you to

• add extra and post-booking baggage,
• pick seats (yet, this function is available not for all airlines),
• change and cancel orders,
• collect card payments,
• add loyalty program accounts, and
• request private fares.

The API works with LCCs, GDS, and NDC content. Yet, some features are still under development and not available for all airlines. The API maintains direct connections with 30 carriers, while all others are accessible through Travelport GDS.

Verteil API

Verteil is an NDC aggregator dedicated to replacing legacy airline distribution scenarios with direct bookings. Its unified API connects travel agencies to rich content from 33 airlines. Though capabilities may differ from carrier to carrier depending on their NDC readiness, the standard set of available features includes:

• shopping for flights, branded fares, and ancillaries (seats, meals, baggage, and more);
• support for frequent flyer programs,
• multi-payment options (credit cards, Verteil wallet, PayPal, and so on);
• Book Now, Pay Later scenario;
• automated itinerary modification, ticket re-issuance and cancellation, and void and refund workflow.

Note that travel agencies will automatically get access to inventory from all new airlines onboarded.

HitchHiker Flight API

The HitchHiker API distributes flight fares and ancillaries from 6 GDSs and 20 NDC airlines and connects directly to 120 airlines, including low-cost carriers. Besides ancillaries and fares, it allows for flight booking, reservation management, and payment. The API is also available as a SaaS solution.

Accelya (ex-Farelogix) NDC

Accelya is a leading provider of financial and analytics services in the airline sector. For example, it developed and maintains BSP link , the interface that allows travel agencies and carriers to access the IATA billing system — Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP.) In 2020, the company expanded its portfolio through the acquisition of Farelogix — a tech company pioneering NDC. Their FLX NDC API serves as a single gateway enabling airlines to distribute rich content across different sales channels. Currently, the API fuels the FLX Passenger Platform that spans the entire cycle of air merchandising and attracts over 25 percent of the world’s NDC traffic. It serves about 20 NDC-powered airlines — including Lufthansa Group, United Airlines, American Airlines, Emirates, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, LATAM, WestJet, Air Canada, Olympic Air, and Aegean Airlines. Travel agents and other businesses can tap into NDC content via an interface called SPRK as well as an API connection for distributors .

Flight data, schedules, and fares APIs

Main users: OTAs, TMCs, data science, and analytics groups working in the travel industry Read more here: Flight and air booking APIs Some OTAs and travel application providers strive to help travelers after the booking is completed. For instance, the in-flight support app that we developed for Fareboom helps travelers with timely notifications before a departure, tracks flight status, and alerts about delays. Others attract customers with additional features such as flight price predictors . To deliver such services, you have to retrieve in-depth details about schedules, connections, fares, weather, and more. So, the final group of air travel-related APIs embraces connectivity options that help gather technical and specific flight data. For instance, Cirium (now owns Innovata and FlightStats) and OAG are global sources of flight scheduling data. And ATPCO is the main provider of fares, as airlines submit them directly to ATPCO, which in turn offers this data to GDSs and OTAs. Most of this information comes from the key technical players on the market. But let’s also mention one fare aggregator (or metasearch engine) — Skyscanner.

Skyscanner APIs

GDSs send general flight data, while Skyscanner provides more precise fare returns for a lower cost. To use Skyscanner API you need to enroll in an affiliate program. If you pass the vetting process, you get access to a set of APIs for free. Once you reach a certain revenue threshold, the service allows you to negotiate a commission based on your traffic and market proportion. While Skyscanner also provides car rental and hotel APIs, its strong point is its flight fare search. It comes in two main versions. Browse Flight Prices. This set ships the cheapest quotes from cached prices for an aggregated variety of origin-destination and time-frame queries, meaning that you can set up a flex search. The drawback is the cache doesn’t update frequently for less popular route and date combinations. If the prices change, sometimes your users won’t be able to see fresh info. Live Flight Prices. The live pricing API, on the other hand, returns exact fares for any given moment. But you must query the exact time and route to retrieve prices. This feature comes in handy whenever you need to compare prices for specific dates and routes. The default response format in both cases is XML, but you can switch to JSON.

Cirium and FlightStats APIs

Another popular API in this segment is provided by FlightStats, a global flight tracker and travel applications provider owned by Cirium. FlightStats APIs combine two main products. FlightStats Flex APIs. This suite allows you to get actual and precise flight data in English, German, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Arabic, Japanese, and Simplified Chinese. The set includes

• Flight Status and Track API providing detailed information on a flight’s schedule, delays, gates and terminals, real-time position, speed, and more;
• Historical Flight Status API delivering historical data on departure/arrival times, delay calculations, equipment type, etc.;
• Schedules API with information on upcoming flights;
• Connections API returning direct and connecting flights between two airports;
• Airlines API for important details about carriers — such as IATA/ICAO codes and current status;
• Airports API for IATA/ICAO codes, addresses, locations, time zones, and other data on airports;
• Equipment API enabling you to search for information on aircraft equipment;
• Alerts API to send notifications triggered by flight status and other changes;
• Delay Index API reporting on the current delay level in a specific airport;
• Ratings API to define which flights are more likely to be on-time between given airports;
• Weather API focusing on current weather conditions; and
• FIDS API returning data necessary for flight information display system (FIDS) located in airport terminals, hotel lobbies, and other places.

APIs follow the REST design, supporting JSON, JSONP, and XML formats as well as SOAP protocol. FlightStats Trips APIs . This set focuses on the ability of travel providers to improve the itinerary experience of their customers by keeping them informed about their trips. These include alerts about important changes, especially delays, cancellations, and other travel disruptions to enable proactive reactions to these events. FlightStats APIs are known in the development community as well-documented and coherent. They allow for deep customization to tailor travel software to specific business and UX needs.

OAG is another major player in the flight schedules market. It currently has four REST APIs:

• Flight Info returns schedules and granular status data showing all changes during the flight;
• Schedules enable near real-time access to data on schedules;
• Flight Info Alerts provides near real-time scheduling changes; and
• Flight Info Connections returns weekly updates on passenger and cargo flight connections.

OAG content covers 97 percent of flights worldwide, and its APIs power such innovative products as Uber Reserve (a tool for pre-booking a ride up to 30 days in advance), Air Black Box (a virtual interlining engine), and Global Pilot Source (a recruitment platform connecting pilots and airlines.)

SITA is one of the major flight market technology providers that offers a decent set of APIs that mostly revolve around airport, baggage, and boarding information. Via SITA APIs, you can get timely information on

• airports (location, IATA/ICAO codes),
• flights (including real-time data),
• weather at a particular airport; and
• the average waiting time in a specific area of the airport (customs queue or security line).

SITA Flex APIs allow you to create mobile apps interacting with Self Baggage Drop Devices, Self Boarding Gates, scanners, and other airport technologies . Boarding Pass API streamlines the creation and distribution of mobile boarding passes. And Bagjourney API facilitates baggage tracking using a bag tag number or passenger surname. Yet, this functionality is available only if you have an agreement with a particular airline.

Main users: Larger OTAs, metasearch engines, niche OTAs, travel application providers Read more here: Best Hotel Booking APIs , Channel management in hotels APIs If you’re new to the world of hotel room distribution, spend five minutes to understand how the ecosystem works before diving deep into the APIs. We’ve made a video for that. If you know the basics, just skip our explainer.

How hospitality booking works (if you haven’t subscribed after the first video, now's a great time to do it)

With that out of the way, let’s begin the next section, the name of which may sound a bit misleading because direct hotel booking is possible only if you connect to the  hotel's central reservation system . But the next step on the journey to being direct is channel management. Direct connection via property management (PMS) and central reservation systems (CRS). A PMS is the main software environment for hotels. It usually includes reservation capabilities (CRS) and other modules that don’t work with distribution but help with internal hotel operations, like point-of-sale systems or front desk . As you may have guessed, direct connectivity via PMSs requires quite a lot of investment, because there are dozens of PMSs on the market and you may need integration with several of them if you want to have a large inventory.

More on how PMSs work

If you’re considering direct integration with hotels, check our article on  Opera by Oracle PMS integration . It’s one of the largest PMS providers out there. Connection via channel managers. Channel managers are systems that integrate with PMSs on one side and with online travel agencies or other distributors on the other. The main purpose of a channel manager is to allow hotels to distribute their properties across several channels (OTAs, TMCs, etc.), hence the name. As a travel distributor, you can connect with channel managers given that certain hotels want to distribute with you and advocate your integration. The largest channel managers may feature thousands of hotels. Considering the nature of these connections, it’s still almost direct integration as channel managers just pass the information without adding their commissions for bookings. We won’t describe any direct integrations with PMSs, but let’s have a look at a couple of notable channel managers.

SiteConnect API by SiteMinder Channel Manager

SiteMinder is one of the largest channel management providers for hotels. It allows hoteliers to connect their properties to the leading OTAs and GDSs via the cloud interface, increase direct bookings , and analyze performance. While their packages can be extremely useful for hotels that strive for market visibility, SiteMinder also has SiteConnect API that mostly addresses OTAs and other end-user providers.

Cloudbeds API

Cloudbeds is another large player in the channel management market with about 20,000 hotels in its portfolio. Cloudbeds has a REST API that exchanges data on guests, reservations, and so on in JSON. Besides, CloubBeds gives access to their APIs to application developers who integrate Cloudbeds software with third-party services.

Hotel booking APIs by aggregators: GDSs, connectivity providers, and switches

Main users: OTAs, metasearch engines, travel application providers Read more here: Best Hotel Booking APIs The second group of suppliers can be called aggregators. They collect data from many sources, including hotels, wholesalers (that we discuss below), and aggregators which can be generally broken down into two major groups. Global Distribution Systems. While GDSs are more focused on air travel, they feature quite a lot of hotels since corporate travel management companies (TMCs) tend to stick with GDSs and it was a sound move to include hotel inventory as well. While GDSs generally have large hotel inventories, they may miss some segments that are of little interest to corporate travelers. Another drawback is that GDSs tend to have poor content, low-res images, and incomplete descriptions and amenity lists. Connectivity providers and switches. Another major group of suppliers covers different types of aggregators that get data on hotel reservations, room availability, and other content across many different sources. Sometimes aggregators work directly with hotels; sometimes they connect to other middlemen. But usually, they have both. Going to aggregators is a smart move if you need a large inventory. One of the subtypes of these aggregators is switches, the systems that in many ways are similar to channel managers. They connect to the hotel's central reservation systems and reroute data from suppliers to distributors, allowing both to have a single point of contact, a switch. The main difference is that channel managers require you to agree to integration with a hotel directly, while switches can negotiate with you not involving hotels. Sometimes, the terms switch, aggregator, and connectivity provider are used interchangeably.

Hotel Aggregator API by MakCorps

MakCorps has been collecting information about hotel prices of different vendors since 2010. . Its Hotel API covers not only current rates but also reviews, ratings, and other data from over 200 OTAs including Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, and Hotels.com. Besides that, MakCorps offers historical hotel pricing data which enables travel agencies, hotel chains, and other clients to understand buying patterns and other trends and adjust rates to secure a competitive advantage. . All data is received in XML format but MakCorps transfers it into JSON for customer convenience.

RateGain and Dhisco Switch

DHISCO Switch by RateGain is a global switch that enables the one-to-many distribution of hotel rooms connecting main OTAs, travel agencies, metasearch engines, and GDSs with hotel chains. Currently, the service has access to 125,000 properties from over 1,000 channels.

DerbySoft: connectivity APIs for booking and content

DerbySoft is a connectivity provider that acts as a single point of contact both for hotels and travel sellers. It maintains a network of 750 partners including

• large hotel groups (Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, Accor, and more), PMSs like Oracle Opera or TravelClick,
• destination management companies ,
• online travel agencies, and
• other distributors.

To initiate the connection process, choose businesses you want to link and complete the online form.

Wholesale hotel booking: APIs by bed banks

Main users: OTAs, metasearch engines, travel application providers Read more here: Bed Banks Compared , Best Hotel Booking APIs Bed banks (or wholesalers) are among the main sources to access hotel booking and content. Wholesalers purchase inventories in bulk and then resell them to distributors. This allows hotels to efficiently manage their revenues and fill up rooms, while bed banks get access to inventory at lower rates.

Hotelbeds APIs

Hotelbeds is one of the largest accommodation, transfers, and activities distributors. Its API Suite covers more than 120 markets globally operating in about 185 countries. There are three main hotel-related APIs that Hotelbeds suggests, connecting to about 300,000 hotels worldwide. Hotel Content API . This API returns both static and dynamic information. Static info includes hotel descriptions, pictures, addresses, etc. The dynamic part retrieves data that can be changed at any moment: availability details, prices, fees, etc. Hotel Booking API . The API works in combination with the previous one enabling all aspects of the booking procedure, from requesting room availability to receiving booking lists and making cancellations. Hotel Cache API . This API is aimed at providing massive amounts of data for travel packages or flex room searches. Thus, the API returns a specific snapshot of data captured at a given moment.

WebBeds API: JacTravel, Destinations of the World, and others

WebBeds is the second largest bed bank, boasting a portfolio of 430,000 hotels in over 16,000 destinations, not to mention thousands of transfer services, excursions, and attractions. It owns several smaller wholesalers including  Lots of Hotels (LOH) , FIT Ruums , Sunhotels , and Destination of the World (DOTW)   as well as two niche brands:

• JacTravel DMC specializes in the UK, France, and key mainland European destinations; and
• UmrahHolidays International organizes religious travel to Saudi Arabia.

OTAs, tour operators, and other travel providers can tap into WebBeds inventory through their branded booking websites or API connectivity (contact them directly via an online form for more details.) Sunhotel has a separate XML API connecting to 368,000 properties in 120 countries.

Bonotel API

Bonotel is a niche wholesale distributor that is solely targeted at luxury and boutique hotel rooms. Currently, Bonotel API accesses more than 2,600 travel suppliers globally that operate within the luxury segment and offer access to hotel content and data. To explore the API that Bonotel suggests, you should contact the supplier directly.

Travco XML API

Travco , one of the oldest hotel wholesalers, focuses on the European market and provides accommodation and ancillary bookings from over 12,000 hotels at over 1000 destinations. Their XML API gives access to hotel properties (including hotels, resorts, and retreats) and travel ancillaries (like transfers, tours, and restaurants). Also, this API allows for displaying content in nine languages.

HPro Travel (HotelsPro)

HPro Travel (formerly HotelsPro) is a bed bank with a focus on tour operators and travel agencies, selling properties of different sizes and types, including resorts and luxury hotels. You can also source travel ancillaries. It provides access to over 1,000,000 hotels across 70,000 destinations. Other available inventory types include car rentals, transfers, tours, attractions, and events. The bed bank offers hotel APIs that support REST and JSON. Coral API allows you to get up-to-date inventory and hotel information, cache results, check availability, book rooms, and cancel reservations. Cosmos API returns hotel static data — information on properties and locations, images, room, and meal types, and more. You’ll find a detailed description of these wholesalers in our dedicated article.

Partner rooms reservations: APIs by Expedia and Booking.com

Main users: small OTAs, non-hospitality travel providers, channel managers, property management systems Read more here: Expedia Partner Solutions , Booking.com Partnership The final option to connect to multiple hotels is to partner with big OTAs and use their inventory . Yet, you need to have a significant volume of bookings to be vetted by large players since they are typically not interested in integrations with startups and small businesses. There are two main players dictating the rules of the OTA market: Booking Holdings (Booking.com, Kayak, Momondo, etc.) and Expedia (Expedia.com, Hotel.com, Trivago, etc.) If you mostly look at hotel booking, it’s worth working with both. Not all APIs are publicly available and you’ll have to become their partner to fully leverage their capacities. The two giants have their partnership networks. Expedia Partner Central is aimed at hotels and Expedia Partner Solutions at online travel agencies and other travel software providers. Booking.com supports APIs for smaller travel agencies and channel managers.

Expedia Partner Central

Expedia APIs are built with the idea of streamlining property updates both for hotels and ultimately Expedia end users. Availability and Rates API . This set of APIs helps hotels automate booking by instantly updating property rates on all Expedia points, changing availability, and sending notifications as soon as someone reserves a room through the Expedia network. Note that it can’t be used alone: You must also integrate either the Booking Notification API or Booking Retrieval/Confirmation set of APIs to automatically send updates to your CRS or PMS. All other APIs can’t be integrated without Availability and Rate API and Booking Notification or the Booking Retrieval/Confirmation APIs in place. This rule applies to

• Product API that allows you to retrieve property-level information, read, edit, and create room types, rate plans, and amenities;
• Deposit API for reading, creating, updating, and removing a property’s deposit policy;
• Image API for adding and deleting property images as well as editing metadata; and
• Property API to add and update content about property attributes, policies, and fees.

There is also a standalone Compliance API that supplies data about regulations in the region where properties are listed.

Expedia Rapid API

The Expedia Partner Solutions API named Rapid is created for online travel agencies that want to incorporate hotel booking support into their products. The Rapid API will allow for:

• receiving geographic definitions and property mappings for over 600,000 regions;
• retrieving property IDs and content;
• getting live rates and availability for over 700,000 properties globally; and
• booking and booking management (changing and canceling reservations).

You can also access the Vrbo (formerly HomeAway) inventory, which is an alternative travel OTA that connects travelers with homeowners in about 190 countries. Over 600,000 Vrbo single-room vacation rentals are exposed via Rapid API. (Not to be outdone, another leading player in the vacation rental market, Airbnb, provides an API for owners of single properties who want to employ Airbnb booking capacities.) Additionally, there’s an affiliate program at Orbitz , which is a travel metasearch and aggregator belonging to Expedia. Their engine allows for sourcing about 260,000 bookable properties and over 400 airlines.

Booking.com APIs

Booking.com provides two sets of services - for their affiliate partners and for channel managers. Currently, Booking.API for affiliates allows for retrieving and booking hotel rooms from the Booking inventory. You may use only accommodation data without booking capabilities, sending visitors to Booking.com. If you want to process bookings on your side, you must be PCI-compliant . Booking Connectivity APIs are an entirely different beast. This set of APIs is created for channel managers and property management system providers. You may meet them in the video above. Basically, if you build channel manager software, these APIs are a must... given that you want to connect your clients to Booking.com. You may check their documentation . In brief, Connectivity supports

• rates and availability,
• reservations,
• promotions, and
• problem reporting.

You can read more about Booking, com APIs and other partnership solutions in our dedicated article. Another OTA owned by Booking Holdings is Agoda . It’s worth contacting the Agoda team separately to understand how their supply differs from what Booking already offers.

Priceline API

Priceline focuses on OTAs and tech suppliers that help their customers find travel-related data. Currently, the Priceline Partner Solutions API allows for retrieving and booking:

• cars for rent,
• vacation packages, and
• travel insurance plans.

Owned by Booking Holdings, Priceline leverages a separate collection of travel deals which includes 980,000 properties and exclusive discounts. Learn more about how to start building an API connection on their website.

Hotel and room mapping APIs: GIATA and Gimmonix

Main users: OTAs and TMCs receiving hotel data from multiple sources Read more here: Hotel Mapping Tools Explained If you’re sourcing hotel data from multiple suppliers — for instance from two bed banks, or from a bed bank and a couple of aggregators — inevitably, some of the properties will duplicate as most suppliers have intersecting inventories. The problem is, different suppliers may have different naming conventions for hotel IDs and room types. And you don’t want your users to see the same property with slightly different room naming and prices in search results. You have to solve the mapping problem, i.e. map and remove duplicates of the same hotels, rooms, and content coming from different sources. There are APIs and systems that can help you with this task.

GIATA is a hotel content management provider. Their solution to the mapping problem is creating so-called MultiCodes. GIATA has universal IDs that are mapped to different codes, geocodes, and addresses from over 500 suppliers, including bed banks, OTAs, operators, etc. MultiCodes data is available via XML API . They also have room-level mapping API that addresses descriptions and other hotel content.

Gimmonix Mapping.Works APIs

Mapping.Works is a set of APIs that help both property owners and OTAs map their inventories. Unlike GIATA, the provider employs ML-based text analysis to extract meaning from various inventory descriptions and also operates on two levels of mapping: hotel mapping and room mapping.

Car rental APIs: Rentalcars.com and CarTrawler

Main users: OTAs, travel applications providers, hotels, airlines Read more here: Car Rental APIs As you’ve noticed, multiple players on the market are bundling their services with car rentals. GDS systems and main OTAs already support car rentals.

Rentalcars API

Rentalcars.com owned by Booking Holdings is currently the largest provider in the sphere. If you look at embedding car rental support only into your website, it’s worth considering their services as Rentalcars works across about 60,000 locations in 163 countries. Rentalcars offers two main options:

• put a customizable banner on your website, or
• become a Rentalcars Connect partner and then leverage available technology through the API.

The first option obviously isn’t an API and eventually, your users will be landing on Rentalcars.com to complete their reservation. The second option, on the other hand, isn’t limited to a single API. The connect partners can utilize full-blown Rentalcars product integration and services including dynamic widgets, search panels, etc.

CarTrawler API

CarTrawler is a fully B2B service that connects over 2,000 travel agents, travel retailers (OTAs), and international airlines with local car rental suppliers. Currently, the company operates in 43,500 locations in 190 countries. You can learn about integration options by applying for a partnership agreement . Also, there are car rental APIs by tech service providers , which you can study in more detail in the linked article.

Business travel management and planning APIs from SAP Concur

Main users: applications providers that target business travelers, OTAs Read more: Corporate Travel Management Software , Corporate Travel Management Companies The main player in the business travel market is SAP Concur. The company offers a cloud-based travel management platform that helps enterprises manage trips, track travel expenses, book flight seats and hotel rooms, and rent cars.

SAP Concur API

Concur integration into the Uber app. Image credit: Uber

All apps with SAP Concur API integration are featured in the dedicated App Center .

Tripit is a product by SAP Concur which doesn’t limit its target audience to business travelers only and aims at all types of users. The system consolidates a user’s travel data like hotel, flight, and restaurant confirmations and turns it into a neatly organized itinerary. Also, they provide weather data and points program information. Tripit API works pretty much the same as the main SAP Concur API. For instance, it allows for embedding an “Add to Tripit” link on the travel booking confirmation page of your website or adding Tripit travel plans to a website or application, enabling users to configure itineraries through Tripit without leaving your platform.

Reviews and ratings: TripAdvisor Content API for social proof

Main users: OTAs, hotels, travel applications providers We’ve covered the best UX practices in booking and reservations websites . One of the main points is that 70 percent of people look at about 20 reviews before they book travel or accommodation services online. This social proof is hard to achieve with your own reviews system if you are a hotel, for instance, or another property provider. But TripAdvisor is a trusted source containing over a billion reviews and opinions. Tripadvisor's Content API allows businesses to incorporate reviews, opinions, and other data that the service collects from its users. The platform works with accommodations, restaurants, and attractions providing the following types of content about different locations (hotels, restaurants, attractions, and points of interest) through their API:

• location details (name, address, and rating),
• location photos (up to 5 high-quality images),
• location reviews (up to 5 most recent reviews),
• location search (up to 10 locations found by the given query), and
• nearby location search (up to 10 locations found near the given latitude/longitude).

TripAdvisor supports 29 languages and covers over 8 million locations globally.

Things-to-do APIs: tours, attractions, experiences, and restaurants

Main users: OTAs, local travel providers, travel applications providers Read more here: Tours and Attractions APIs , Restaurant Reservation APIs Like hotels, tours-and attractions (T&A) supply is broad. There are OTAs and niche companies that specialize in connecting travel agents with suppliers, suggesting interfaces, APIs, or both options to configure and source tours. On top of that, these services let you configure custom travel packages that include T&A, accommodation, and even car rentals. To get more information on tours and attractions APIs , check out our comprehensive article on the topic. There are two main sources for finding attractions and things to do for your customers. These are

• local services like London Theatre API , and
• larger vendors that aggregate and share data combined with ticket purchasing support.

Watch our video about the tours and attraction market

Bókun is a tourism reseller platform that partly operates as a marketplace where local travel providers and property owners connect with OTAs and agents. In addition, it provides channel management services. Bókun API allows travel agencies to

• get a list of activities;
• check availability, capacity, and pricing for an activity;
• book activities;
• edit booking details; and
• cancel bookings.

This set of features enables configuring custom travel packages via the API interface.

TrekkSoft API

TrekkSoft focuses solely on tours and activities. The company provides graphical interfaces for local T&A companies and tourism offices. TrekkSoft API can be configured to supply resellers with all available T&A, including booking capacities.

Rezdy is another T&A service for channel management that connects suppliers with travel agents and travel agencies. It offers three REST APIs . Agent API allows OTAs and other resellers to query products by tour operators, check their availability and pricing, and make bookings and cancellations. Supplier API is designed for tour operators who sell their products via the Rezdy platform. It lets them manage their inventory and booking capabilities. RezdyConnect API serves external suppliers who have their own booking platforms. The API facilitates reselling their products via Rezdy channels. It pulls availability and pricing from a supplier’s system and returns bookings and cancellations.

While Rezgo may look like a common T&A channel management solution, it provides an open-source frontend booking engine fueled by Rezgo API . It supports both XML and JSON formats and is dedicated to building T&A booking solutions that don’t exceed 4,000 requests per hour.

Ticketmaster APIs

Ticketmaster is the largest events booking provider in the market. It covers concerts, festivals, plays, and sports across the United States, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Ireland, other European countries, and more. The service claims to reach about 230,000 events worldwide. Back in 2016, it released multiple APIs to let third parties embed the Ticketmaster events search and booking support into their products. There are two main Ticketmaster APIs. Discovery API is aimed solely at an information search. You will be able to source events, filter them by location, and type, and retrieve images. There’s also International Discovery API for European events. It doesn’t work for the UK, Ireland, the US, and Canada. Partner API allows your customers to directly book and buy tickets from your resource. But unlike Discovery API, it’s not open: You have to enroll in the Ticketmaster affiliate program to use it.

Ingresso TicketSwitch API

Ingresso platform provides information on events and seating availability from over 60 global distributors and supports ticket booking and purchasing. Ingresso sources data and sends reservations directly through venue ticketing systems, which ensures real-time updates. Its API is used by Amazon Tickets.

Viator APIs

Viator is a T&A agency acquired by Tripadvisor in 2014. The OTA accesses over 300,000 experiences around the world, including unconventional ones (e.g. “real Prague, a 3-hour tour to see the reverse side of the city”). Its Affiliate API allows you to merchandise Viator inventory, complementing your offerings with tours and activities. However, Viator will handle customer service and transactions. If you want to preserve more control over the booking process, opt for their Merchant API (the implementation takes up to 3 months while Affiliate API can be integrated within 1-4 weeks).

GetYourGuide API

GetYourGuide is another T&A OTA that accesses about 33,000 activities in more than 2,500 destinations. GetYourGuide’s power side is linking specific attractions and activities with locally related ones. For instance, Manhattan cruises will be connected with Empire State Building visits. If you’re a local travel provider, the service requires you to have live-streaming T&A availability. GetYourGuide API is available to partners only.

Klook is a T&A provider that mostly focuses on Asian tours with destinations ranging from China and Shanghai to Japan and Singapore. The company suggests OTAs enroll in an affiliate program and get access to the T&A database via either a SaaS solution or an API.

Musement API

Musement is a wide-range T&A platform that combines attractions, tours, nightlife activities, local food and wine places, sports, and music events. The company’s partners can integrate with a REST API to sell products from the Musement catalog containing more than 5 thousand deals in 300 cities in 60 countries around the world.

Tiqets is an agency that focuses on the digital distribution of museum and attraction tickets. It offers OTAs, travel site owners, and other travel distributors two types of REST/JSON APIs for accessing and booking 4,500 products and 2,500 venues in 250 popular destinations across 50 countries. The Tiqets API enables distributors to become mediators between end customers and ticket sellers. The Partner API is for those who want people to buy tickets right on their own platforms. After integration, you can retrieve general information on activities, events, and destinations, check availability, and book and cancel tickets.

OpenTable API

OpenTable maintains access to over 50,000 restaurants worldwide. The main option for those who want to add table bookings to their services is to become OpenTable partners and use their API . It will allow you to source all OpenTable options, but users will still book through OpenTable.com. Once you reach over 100 monthly reservations as an affiliate, you will be able to leverage revenue-sharing opportunities. However, not all applicants are becoming partners. That’s why there’s an unofficial OpenTable API. It supports the same set of data and doesn’t require contacting OpenTable directly. If the restaurant industry is your primary interest, check out our article on restaurant reservation APIs .

Public transportation: APIs to support the get-around experience

Main users: global and local travel application providers Read more here: Public Transport APIs Not all travelers rent cars. And with the recent trend of making cities more pedestrian-friendly, especially in Europe, the use of public transport is a big part of the travel experience. As we mentioned, Uber has its own API to incorporate the “request the ride” function into third-party applications. Today the API is used in such familiar products as Google Maps, Transit App, and TripAdvisor. What about public transport APIs ? (Check the link for more detail.) There are multiple options to consider.

Google APIs

Embedding Google Maps is quite common today. The Google APIs are open, well-documented, and widely used across industries. However, Google also provides APIs for tracking public transport routes and schedules. General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) . The API is used by both application providers and – very importantly – transit agencies that share public transport data to let users instantly configure their get-around experience. This API sends static-only data, which means users can see schedules and routes, but can’t track disruptions. GTFS Realtime . As the name clearly states, this extension to the main service aims at providing real-time data coming from transit agencies about delays and schedule changes. While this sounds great, you can’t expect it to work in the lion’s share of locations around the world. So, it's worth considering local alternatives if you build apps and want to deliver extra value with real-time public transport updates.

Local APIs from owners and consortiums

You can expect to find decent APIs from companies operating in your target regions. While the quality and standards alignment of these APIs vary, they can provide real-time updates and even additional information like the availability of car sharing or bikes near a railway station. Some examples of these are APIs from Dutch Railways and French National Railways , which update information about disruptions and engineering work in real time. Sometimes the APIs are born as a result of a consortium of data owners and reusers. One such example is OpenTripPlanner , the API providing an in-depth understanding of city transportation.

How to choose the right travel API

We’ve covered just the tip of the available travel API iceberg to provide you with basic information on the integration capabilities that the travel community shares. So, regardless of whether you use one of the products mentioned above or look for something specific, there are general recommendations for choosing a suitable API for your travel business. Look at popularity. ProgrammableWeb suggests looking at Google Trends to understand how popular the product is. Popularity isn’t only a proof of quality but also the foundation for a community that builds around a product. The more developers use the API, the more pitfalls your team will be able to resolve through communication with fellow engineers. Another good sign is a dedicated forum letting developers discuss issues there. Check API marketplaces. The travel API market is already a large one, and there are dedicated marketplaces emerging. For instance, Yappes , one such platform, provides an interface to search for and evaluate popular APIs. Currently, it has around 60 travel APIs, both public and private. According to Rajagopal Somasundaram, CTO and co-founder at Yappes, the platform has the potential to become “ the largest aggregator of the Travel APIs and a platform which provides seamless Discovery and Distribution of Travel related APIs. This will be achieved by providing API Discovery, API Creation & Hosting, API Distribution, and Deal Rooms (License/Price/Terms&Conditions Negotiations) ”. Evaluate documentation. Look for elaborate documentation with FAQs. Some providers don’t showcase the documentation upfront, requiring additional contracts. If the documentation is not public, make sure that you’ll be able to play with a demo. Expedia, for instance, allows you to try its public APIs right in the documentation section. Check for standards compliance. Even though an API may provide a great feature list and functionality, ensure that your developers have checked the main REST and SOAP standards compliance. Consider customization. How customizable is the API or a set of them? Must you use the entire bundle or you can choose specific data records that you want to retrieve? FlightStats, Sabre, and Amadeus APIs are well-recognized for their customization potential. Notice limitations. These may be regional, language, or partnership-related limitations. Most owners provide this information, asking you to contact their support teams or describing what kinds of limitations are there. As the world and the travel industry grow more connected application programming interfaces appear. The right approach to working with them defines whether you source the right data and eventually deliver enough value to your customers. Interested in travel APIs? Check our other pieces on the topic: Flight and air booking APIs Airport transfers APIs and solutions NDC connections and APIs Low-cost booking APIs Hotel APIs Bed banks (wholesalers) Hotel mapping providers Rail booking APIs Car rental APIs Tours and attractions APIs Channel management in hotels APIs Custom channel management in hotels APIs Public transportation APIs Restaurant and table reservation APIs

Comments 13

Best travel and booking APIs: types and providers

• Table of Contents:

Digital transformation has revolutionized everything, and hospitality technology trends are changing each other continuously. Like any other business, travelers want to book their flights, hotels, and tours online, and this is where custom software development for travel comes into play! 

In the travel market, 74% of global revenue will be generated through online sales within the next 4 years. It's a huge number that signifies all the reasons why travel companies should level up their services to get the most benefits.

Travel APIs are the best sources for travel platforms to match user needs. 

They are making efforts to share their tools to get more clients. User prefers to avoid switching online pages to book their flights, hotels, or car services. Everyone prefers an easy way out, and that's what a travel API integration can do for you.

Whether you're a developer looking to integrate travel data into your application, or a business owner seeking to streamline your travel booking process, there is an API out there to suit your needs. 

From flight information to hotel room availability, we'll take a deep dive into the types of APIs available and the top providers in the industry. 

So pack your bags and join us on this journey to discover the best travel and booking APIs!

What is a travel API?

Integrating APIs into travel applications involves several essential processes, such as data mapping, data normalization, error handling, and conflict resolution. Even with a perfect API, it is crucial to have an experienced developer to prevent data corruption and loss.

A travel API is a valuable tool that allows developers to access and interact with travel-related data from various sources, including airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and other travel service providers. Using APIs, developers can standardize how they request and receive data in a structured format.

APIs can provide a wide range of travel-related data, such as flight schedules, prices, hotel room availability, and reviews. However, an API’s functionality ultimately depends on the developer’s expertise who integrates it into the application.

What are the benefits of travel APIs?

There are several benefits you get from a travel API. Let's have a look at a few:

1. Encourages data sharing

One of the primary benefits of using APIs is the access they provide to a vast array of travel-related data. This data can include everything from flight schedules and availability to hotel room rates and reviews.

Different service providers have an opportunity to keep an updated inventory of flights, hotels, rental car services, and tourist spots through APIs. As a result, the traffic on a travel site or an app increases, and customers can book anything on their own. It also helps all those agencies as they don't need to update or maintain anything after a booking.

2. Improves customer engagement

Once a customer visits your site, they don't need to leave the page since there's an influx of consolidated information on a single site. 

Your customer will have access to real-time data, which can be crucial for businesses in the travel industry. For example, airlines can use APIs to provide real-time flight information, such as delays and cancellations, to their customers, ensuring they have up-to-date information on their flights.

3. Streamlines bookings 

With APIs, developers can create booking engines that allow travelers to search for and book flights, hotels, and other travel services all in one place. 

This reduces the need for travelers to visit multiple websites to book their trip, making the booking process more efficient and less time-consuming. Analyzing all this data in one place also becomes a simple task and streamlines the user's experience to make it hassle free!

4. Resolves management and control issues

A software developer applies all the travel data, flight bookings, and hotel bookings to extend Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) solutions. So, most travel agencies do not need to maintain their bookings or hire many people. A signaller can handle bookings with ease.

By automating certain tasks, such as searching for and comparing flight prices, businesses can free up their employees' time to focus on other important tasks, such as customer service and marketing.

The main types of travel APIs

There are several types of travel APIs, each with its own unique features and functions. Some of the main types of APIs for travel include:

Flights APIs

Flights API helps travel agencies or businesses provide a proper travel solution. 

Flight information is usually provided by airlines, travel agencies, contributors, or data platforms. An API provides a solution where the user doesn't need to bother much about the bookings.

Similarly, when we talk about it, it is a challenging job to operate if you are running a small travel agency. Advanced tech and modern travel booking software development has made it difficult for them to compete in the market. 

Online travel booking API allows service providers to stay alive in the market and helps them grow their businesses. In addition, it can help you keep your clients intact as you constantly provide services to them.

What does flight API offer?

In a simple user journey: 

• A user enters information about the flight; for example, he searches for a flight from London to Tokyo
• A search result is shown on the mobile application or web page about the available flights
• He can check flight details, fares and timing
• He can now choose his flight

How can a flight API help in business?

Travel agency software can significantly benefit from integration with a Flight booking API. This integration offers flexible rates and streamlines the booking process for customers. With the ability to search, compare, and book flights directly from the platform, there is no need to visit multiple websites or contact airlines individually.

List of a few flight APIs

• Amadeus APIs
• Travelport API
• Mystifly API

Hotel booking APIs

Hotel APIs have integrated small to large-scale travel agencies offering services according to the luxury level. There are hotels for users according to their budgets and trips. Like explorers, people who like to visit city to city always need a day or two-night stay in a hotel.

How to find hotel APIs? Where should you go to rent your rooms? What kind of inventory should you show your users to get more bookings? 

These questions need brief answers. Which are provided by APIs in a snap.

How do hotel APIs work?

Most hotels make bookings online if they have applied for PMS software development or indirectly if they don't. Traditionally, a middleman always gets those hotels and displays them to your customers. You need to find that middleman to get rooms booked in the digital world, and hotel APIs play that role.

Hotels connect to a local or global API, like booking.com, which in turn connects to other agency sites offering a large database updating in real-time. That's a general example, but the main advantage of hotel APIs is that the users have plenty of options to avail. They can book rooms according to their preferences, match costs, and filter for preferences with advanced APIs combined with powerful search portals.

How can hotel booking API help in business?

OTAs get a lot of benefits as Hotel APIs to help them generate more sales and distribute rooms from large to small hotels. The ease is what makes it more reliable for a user to book rooms before their tours. An API allows a business to have more clients over and over again. It is a boost for many service providers as well as getting recurring clients.

List of hotel APIs

• Travelport Universal API
• TripAdvisor API
• Booking.com API

Transportation APIs

YYou need transport services according to your visits from one place to the other, no matter where you go. For this, transportation APIs have a lot of perks to utilize. OTAs usually book car services for their customers to have a luxurious tour. Travel APIs help you provide the maximum solution to the problems for both clients and travel agencies.

Landing at your tourist location and wandering around for a reliable and cheap transport option is nearly impossible unless you have them booked in advance. APIs help travelers connect with thousands of rental services and pick the best ones to fit their needs and budget.

How do transport APIs work?

A transport API covers rental brands and rents their cars to customers. When a user searches for vehicles with respect to location, he is offered multiple options to avail from the list provided by multiple brands.

List of transportation APIs

• eTravos API
• Smartcar APIs
• Priceline API

How to choose the right travel API?

‍When choosing the right travel API for your business or application, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you select the one that meets your needs. These factors include:

Data coverage

It's important to consider the data coverage of the travel API, which refers to the types of travel-related data it provides access to. For example, some APIs may specialize in flights or hotels, while others may provide access to a broader range of travel services. It's important to choose an API that provides access to the data you need to build your application or business.

Quality of data

The quality of the data provided by the API is also important. You should choose an API that provides accurate and up-to-date data to ensure that your application or business is providing reliable information to your customers.

Pricing and payment model

The pricing and payment model of the API is another important factor to consider. Some APIs may charge a subscription fee, while others may charge based on the number of API calls or the amount of data accessed. It's important to choose an API with a pricing and payment model that aligns with your business needs.

Ease of integration

The ease of integration of the API with your application or business is also important. You should choose an API that provides clear documentation, robust developer tools, and support to ensure you can integrate the API quickly and easily.

COAX Software – Let the experts redefine your travel APIs!

In the end, to maximize the profit in the ever-growing travel business and equip your online website/ app with the best-in-class APIs, you'll need the right team of experts covering for you!

At COAX Software, we have years of experience in the travel industry, working with a range of clients, from property management systems to online booking solutions for small Destination Management Companies (DMCs).

We have helped numerous clients improve their travel booking process with advanced APIs, and our experts have a deep understanding of the unique needs of the travel industry to pick up and integrate the most relevant API for your specific project

Get in touch with the experts and consult us to help you ideate, develop, and integrate the most advanced travel APIs!

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3 Types of Bookings and Why You Need Them

o two customers are alike when it comes to your rental or activity business. Here a few examples of the type of customers you'll likely get year after year.

• The Planner - This is the customer that is planning their family activities a year to six months in advance. They want to get a jump on your most popular rentals or activities, and are ready to reserve their spot as soon as possible.
• The Group - Families and friends travel together, and these customers make plans to book several of your rentals or participate in a fun group activity together. The Group will often have one customer that is booking, but needs to check with the rest of the group to confirm availability and payment.
• The Last Minute - These folks are spontaneous. They roll into town for their vacation, and choose to show up at your boat shop hoping for that last minute availability.

‍ Knowing that you will get these types of customers and others, you need to be ready for them. That is why your booking platform should give you booking options.

Read along to learn about these types of bookings, and why they are useful to your operations.

The Confirmed Booking

This is the standard booking status, and ultimately where you want all your customer bookings to end up. Customers go to your website, see availability, book and pay for their activity. Confirmed orders can also be added through the back office, too.

Why confirmed bookings are important: A booking that is confirmed shows commitment from the customer, and collects payment (deposit or full amount depending on settings) right away so great for your daily sales.

The Pending Booking

The pending order also known as a booking request depending on the circumstance. Check out the variations below.

The Booking Request

When you need to verify availability of a tour or rental, you can mark your web orders as a booking request . In this case the customer does not get a confirmation, but rather a message saying that the request has been received. The confirmation message will follow later. The booking system will check and hold the availability for a booking request. Payment information is taken, but not processed. This allows you to review the request, and either confirm and collect payment or decline the request.

The Pending Order

You can also create pending orders through the system.  This is a back office task that an employee or owner will perform. Pending Orders can be created for all rental or activities you offer, not only the items you have set as request for web bookings. A pending order will check and hold the availability of the rental item(s), and can be confirmed and paid for at a later time.

Why pending bookings are good for your operations : A pending booking is great when you have to verify availability of a rental or activity.  This is common if you work with other rental or tour operators, and provide your inventory to them. It is also useful if you share inventory between your own activities such as a packaged option that is using several of your resources.

A Quote is an order that is created by you through the system. Different from a pending order, a quote does not check or hold availability of the rental or activity. Quotes can be sent directly to the customer via an email and include a link to book. Quotes sent in this way have an expiration date/time and allow the customer to review, confirm, and pay for the booking.

Quotes can also be created in the system to serve as a temporary order, and be confirmed later by you. Both options are great for the customer that may need to discuss the details with other family or friends before confirming the booking.

Why quotes are beneficial to your business : The quote will automate the process to allow the customer to complete the booking. Quotes are also handy to create a temporary order in the system if a customer needs more time to confirm and pay for the rental or activity.

BookingCentral gives you these booking options to choose from. If you are a current customer, you can enable them in your account by going to Settings - Orders.

Not a current BookingCentral customer? If you are looking for this feature and more for your rental, tour or activity business, then let's talk. Reach out to our team today to find out more.

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Explore the Various Types of Travel: A Comprehensive Guide for Every Adventurous Soul

Zackary Hooper

Navigating the world of travel can be a daunting task with countless options at every turn. We’ve all been there, overwhelmed by choices and unsure which type of adventure best suits our wandering heart.

Table of Contents

With first-hand experience in multiple types of travel and extensive research under our belt, we’re here to guide you through this maze. This blog post will offer an in-depth look into various types of travel from solo ventures to luxury indulgences – delivering insights for your next epic journey ! Let’s begin the exploration!

Key Takeaways

• Solo travel offers opportunities for personal growth, self – discovery, and building confidence. It allows travelers to tailor their adventures according to personal interests.
• Safety tips for solo travelers include researching destinations, sharing itineraries with someone back home, staying connected, trusting instincts, being cautious with alcohol, securing belongings, and using reliable transportation options.
• Top destinations for solo travelers include Bali (Indonesia), Prague (Czech Republic), Iceland, Tokyo (Japan), and New Zealand. These places offer unique experiences and opportunities for self-discovery.
• Adventure travel offers thrilling activities such as safaris, summer camps for outdoor fun, hiking and trekking in stunning landscapes, wildlife conservation initiatives to protect endangered species.

Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide for Independent Explorers

Embarking on solo travel can be an incredibly rewarding experience, providing the opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery.

Benefits of Solo Travel

Solo travel cultivates an atmosphere of self-reliance and independence . Venturing into new locales on your own opens doors for deep introspection , a chance to discover and explore oneself just as much as the destinations.

It forces one to step out of their comfort zone, sharpening problem-solving skills in unfamiliar environments. Not only does this boost confidence but also broadens perspectives about different cultures and landscapes around the world.

Unconstrained by travel partners’ preferences, solo travelers have full freedom to tailor their adventures according to personal interests – from adventurous activities at dream destinations or peaceful retreats amid serene landscapes, every choice is yours alone! Sharing experiences with fellow solo travelers also helps build lasting friendships across borders.

Furthermore, encountering unexpected situations during solo travels can serve as life lessons that further enrich our knowledge and understanding of the world we live in.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

Solo travel can be an incredible adventure, but it’s important to prioritize safety. Here are some tips to help ensure a smooth and secure solo trip:

• Research your destination : Learn about the local customs, laws, and potential safety risks before you go.
• Share your itinerary : Let someone back home know your plans , including where you’ll be staying and how they can reach you.
• Stay connected : Always have a way to communicate with others , whether it’s a local SIM card or an international data plan.
• Blend in : Dress like the locals and avoid flashy jewelry or accessories that may attract unwanted attention.
• Trust your instincts : If something feels off or unsafe, remove yourself from the situation and find a safe place.
• Be cautious with alcohol : Drink responsibly and be aware of your surroundings when enjoying nightlife or socializing with new people.
• Secure your belongings : Keep valuable items locked up in a hotel safe or hidden in secure compartments of your bag.
• Stay aware of your surroundings : Pay attention to who is around you and trust your gut if something doesn’t feel right.
• Use reliable transportation options : Stick to reputable taxi companies or trusted ride-sharing services when getting around.

Top Destinations for Solo Travelers

Are you a solo traveler looking for the perfect destination to explore on your own? Here are some top destinations that will surely feed your wanderlust:

• Bali, Indonesia : Immerse yourself in the stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and spiritual experiences of this tropical paradise.
• Prague, Czech Republic : Wander through charming cobblestone streets and soak in the architectural beauty of this historic city.
• Iceland : Experience breathtaking landscapes with waterfalls, volcanoes, and geothermal hot springs that are sure to leave you in awe.
• Tokyo, Japan : Dive into the bustling metropolis of Tokyo where you can indulge in amazing food, shopping, and immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture.
• Solo travel in New Zealand : Explore the stunning natural beauty of New Zealand through hiking trails, adventure sports, and breathtaking scenery.

Solo Travel Resources and Apps

I have discovered some great resources and apps that are perfect for solo travelers like myself. These tools can help make the journey even more enjoyable and stress-free:

• TripIt : This app keeps all of your travel itineraries organized in one place, making it easy to access flight details, accommodation reservations, and other important information.
• Google Maps : A must-have app for navigating unfamiliar cities or remote areas. You can easily find directions, discover local attractions, and even save offline maps for offline use.
• Skyscanner : This website and app is perfect for finding the best deals on flights. You can compare prices from different airlines and book your tickets directly through the platform.
• Hostelworld : If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation options, Hostelworld is a great resource. It provides a wide range of hostels around the world with reviews from fellow travelers.
• Yelp : When it comes to finding places to eat or drink, Yelp is a reliable source for reviews and recommendations from locals and tourists alike.
• Duolingo : Planning to visit a country where English may not be widely spoken? Duolingo is an excellent language-learning app that will help you pick up the basics before your trip.
• XE Currency : Avoid confusion when it comes to exchanging money by using this currency conversion app. It offers accurate rates and allows you to easily convert between currencies.
• Google Translate : Overcome language barriers with this handy translation tool. You can translate text or even have conversations with people who speak different languages.
• Trail Wallet : Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, Trail Wallet helps you track your expenses on the go so you can stick to your financial goals while exploring new destinations.
• Safety apps : There are various safety apps available that offer features such as real-time tracking, emergency contacts, and panic buttons in case of any mishaps during your solo travels.

Adventure Travel: Exploring Different Types of Adventures

From thrilling safaris to exhilarating hiking and trekking experiences, adventure travel offers endless opportunities for excitement and exploration. Discover the world’s most captivating landscapes and embark on wild rides that will leave you breathless with anticipation.

Read on to dive deep into the various types of adventures awaiting your adventurous soul.

When I think of adventure travel, one activity that always comes to mind is going on a safari. The thrill of being in the wild and getting up close with exotic animals is an experience like no other.

Whether you’re taking a jeep tour or embarking on a walking safari, there’s something magical about witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. From spotting lions roaming the grasslands to observing elephants bathing by the watering hole, every moment on a safari is filled with awe and wonder.

It’s not just about the wildlife though; safaris also offer incredible opportunities to immerse yourself in different landscapes and learn about local cultures . So if you’re ready for an adventure of a lifetime, make sure to add a safari to your bucket list!

Summer camps

I absolutely love summer camps! They are a fantastic way to experience adventure and have fun in the great outdoors. Whether you’re a kid or an adult, summer camps offer exciting activities like hiking, swimming, canoeing, and even campfire storytelling.

Not only do they provide an opportunity to make lifelong friends , but summer camps also teach valuable skills like teamwork and leadership. So pack your bags and head to a summer camp for an unforgettable adventure this year!

Hiking and Trekking

I absolutely love hiking and trekking ! There’s something incredibly exhilarating about exploring nature on foot and pushing your limits . Whether you’re tackling a challenging mountain trail or strolling through scenic landscapes, hiking and trekking offer unique adventures that allow you to connect with the natural world .

It’s not just about the physical exercise – it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning environments , experience breathtaking views, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path .

So lace up those boots, grab your backpack, and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the great outdoors!

Wildlife Conservation

I love exploring the wild and learning about wildlife conservation. It’s important to protect animals’ natural habitats and ensure their survival for future generations. We can help maintain biodiversity and preserve endangered species by supporting wildlife conservation initiatives.

Whether it’s participating in research programs , volunteering at animal sanctuaries, or promoting eco-tourism, there are many ways to make a difference. Let’s work together to safeguard our planet’s beautiful creatures and create a sustainable future for all life forms.

Cultural Travel: Discovering the Richness of Different Cultures

Immerse yourself in local traditions, explore historical sites, indulge in culinary experiences, and celebrate festivals and events from different cultures around the world.

Immersion in Local Traditions

Exploring different cultures and immersing myself in local traditions has always been a highlight of my travels. There’s something truly enriching about stepping into the shoes of locals, learning their customs, and embracing their way of life.

Whether it’s participating in traditional ceremonies , trying local delicacies, or engaging in cultural activities, immersing myself in local traditions allows me to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the people and places I visit.

Through these immersive experiences, I’ve learned about ancient rituals at temples, witnessed breathtaking festivals firsthand, and even picked up some new dance moves along the way.

Historical Explorations

I love delving into the past and uncovering the stories of our ancestors. Historical explorations allow us to step back in time and witness different cultures, events, and landmarks firsthand.

Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins , visiting museums , or walking through cobblestone streets lined with historical buildings, there is something magical about connecting with the past .

These adventures provide a unique educational experience that deepens our understanding of history while also igniting a sense of awe and wonder. From exploring iconic sites like the Pyramids of Giza to discovering hidden gems off the beaten path, historical explorations offer endless opportunities for discovery and reflection.

Culinary Experiences

Exploring different cultures through their cuisine is an essential part of cultural travel. Immerse yourself in the flavors and traditions of a country by sampling local dishes , visiting markets , and even taking cooking classes .

Discover exotic spices, unique ingredients , and traditional cooking techniques that will tantalize your taste buds and expand your culinary horizons. Whether it’s indulging in fresh seafood along the coast of Italy or savoring street food in Thailand, culinary experiences are a delicious way to connect with a culture on a deeper level.

Festivals and Events

Attending festivals and events is a vibrant way to immerse yourself in the local culture while traveling. From colorful parades to music concerts, these celebrations offer a unique experience that allows you to connect with the community and witness their traditions firsthand .

You can join in traditional dances , sample delicious local cuisines , and marvel at spectacular firework displays . Whether it’s celebrating religious holidays or cultural landmarks, festivals and events create lasting memories while giving you an opportunity to make new friends from around the world.

So pack your dancing shoes and get ready to celebrate!

Participating in festivals and events not only introduces you to different customs but also provides insights into the history of a place. Through historical reenactments or guided tours, you can learn about significant moments in time that shaped a community’s identity.

Attending these events allows you to visualize stories told through artistic performances or interactive exhibitions. By immersing yourself in such experiences, you enrich your understanding of diverse cultures and gain a deeper appreciation for the destinations on your travel itinerary.

– Festivals and events give travelers the chance to engage with locals.

Eco-Travel: Promoting Sustainable Tourism

Eco-Travel promotes sustainable tourism through responsible wildlife tourism , conservation and preservation efforts , eco-friendly accommodations , and sustainable transportation options .

Responsible Wildlife Tourism

I believe that responsible wildlife tourism is crucial for preserving our planet’s diverse ecosystems and protecting endangered species . By practicing ethical and sustainable approaches to wildlife encounters, we can contribute to conservation efforts while also having a memorable travel experience.

It’s important to choose tour operators and accommodations prioritizing animal welfare, such as those promoting responsible interactions with animals in their natural habitats and supporting local conservation projects .

Remember, when engaging in wildlife tourism activities, always respect the environment and the animals by following guidelines set by experts in the field. Let’s be conscious travelers who appreciate nature’s beauty without causing harm or distress to its inhabitants.

Conservation and Preservation

Conservation and preservation are essential aspects of eco-travel. When we engage in responsible wildlife tourism, we actively contribute to conservation efforts to protect endangered species and preserve their habitats.

By supporting ethical organizations and initiatives, we can help ensure the long-term sustainability of our natural environment. Choosing eco-friendly accommodations that prioritize sustainable practices also contributes to reducing our impact on the planet.

Additionally, opting for sustainable transportation methods such as public transit or biking helps minimize carbon emissions and protect fragile ecosystems.

Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Eco-friendly accommodations are a great option for travelers who want to minimize their environmental impact while enjoying their vacation. These accommodations prioritize sustainability and conservation by implementing practices like using renewable energy sources , reducing water consumption , and promoting recycling .

Staying at an eco-friendly accommodation helps protect the planet and provides a unique and immersive experience for visitors. From eco-lodges nestled in rainforests to solar-powered resorts by the beach, various options are available that cater to different travel preferences.

By staying at eco-friendly accommodations, travelers can contribute towards responsible tourism and support businesses that prioritize sustainable practices. So why not consider booking your next adventure at an environmentally conscious lodging?.

Sustainable Transportation

I always make sure to choose sustainable transportation when I travel. It’s not only good for the environment, but it also allows me to experience my destination in a unique way. Instead of relying on cars or airplanes, I opt for public transportation like buses or trains whenever possible.

This not only reduces carbon emissions but also gives me a chance to interact with locals and see the landscape up close. Another option I love is biking or walking around the city , which keeps me active and reduces my carbon footprint.

By choosing sustainable transportation, I feel like I’m doing my part in preserving our planet while enjoying my travels to the fullest.

Luxury Travel: Indulging in Exquisite Experiences

Experience the epitome of indulgence with high-end resorts, private tours, fine dining, and luxury cruises. Whether you seek relaxation or opulence, this guide has everything you need to create unforgettable memories.

High-end Resorts and Spas

I absolutely love indulging in the luxurious experience that high-end resorts and spas offer. The exquisite accommodations , world-class amenities , and top-notch service make it a truly unforgettable getaway.

Whether you’re looking for a tropical paradise or a mountain retreat, these high-end establishments provide the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. From rejuvenating spa treatments to gourmet dining experiences , every aspect of your stay is designed to pamper you and ensure that you leave feeling refreshed and revitalized.

It’s all about treating yourself to the finer things in life and creating memories that will last a lifetime. So why not splurge on a stay at one of these high-end resorts or spas? After all, you deserve nothing but the best!

Private Tours and Experiences

I love the exclusivity and personalized attention that comes with private tours and experiences. It’s a fantastic way to explore a destination at your own pace, while enjoying the luxury of having an expert guide who can provide insights and insider knowledge .

Whether it’s a historical walking tour through ancient ruins or a luxurious wine tasting experience at a vineyard, private tours offer unique opportunities to delve deeper into the culture and attractions of a place.

You can customize your itinerary to focus on your interests, ensuring that you get the most out of your travel experience. With private tours and experiences, you’ll have unforgettable moments that are tailored just for you.

Fine Dining and Wine Tasting

I love indulging in exquisite experiences when I travel, and one of my favorite ways to do that is through fine dining and wine tasting. There’s something truly special about savoring a gourmet meal paired with a perfectly matched wine .

Whether it’s enjoying a Michelin-starred dinner or exploring vineyards in the rolling hills of Tuscany, fine dining and wine tasting offer unique opportunities for sensory pleasure and culinary exploration .

From rich flavors to elegant presentation, every bite and sip take you on a delightful journey of taste. So if you’re a foodie like me, be sure to add fine dining and wine tasting experiences to your travel itinerary for an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.

Luxury Cruises

If you’re looking to indulge in exquisite experiences while traveling, luxury cruises are the perfect choice. These cruises offer high-end resorts and spas on board where you can relax and rejuvenate in style.

Private tours and experiences provide personalized attention , allowing you to explore destinations at your own pace . Fine dining options with world-class cuisine and wine tasting events elevate your culinary experience while sailing the seas.

Luxury cruises provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in opulence and create unforgettable memories .

Conclusion on Types of Travel

Embark on your next travel adventure and explore the various types of travel that await you. From solo exploration to adrenaline-filled adventures , cultural immersions to eco-friendly experiences, and luxurious indulgences to soulful journeys, there is a type of travel for every adventurous soul.

So pack your bags, step out of your comfort zone, and let the world be your guide as you discover new landscapes, cultures, and unforgettable experiences along the way.

FAQs on Types of Travel

1. what are the different types of travel i can explore.

You can explore various types of travel such as adventure travel, cultural tourism, ecotourism, and beach vacations.

2. How do I decide which type of travel is right for me?

To decide which type of travel is right for you, consider your interests, preferences, and desired experiences. Think about whether you enjoy outdoor activities, learning about different cultures or simply relaxing on a beach.

3. Are there any recommended destinations for each type of travel?

Yes, there are recommended destinations for each type of travel. For example, adventure travelers may consider places like New Zealand or Costa Rica while cultural tourists may be drawn to cities like Paris or Kyoto.

4. Can I combine different types of travel in one trip?

Absolutely! You can combine different types of travel in one trip to make it more diverse and enjoyable. For example, you might start with an adventurous hike and then unwind by exploring local traditions and cuisine.

About the author

I’ve been fortunate to visit over fifty countries, each journey leaving a unique footprint on my life’s map. From bustling cities to serene nature trails, I’ve immersed myself in different cultures and experiences, constantly broadening my understanding of the world. On this site, I share my travel stories, tips, and insights, hoping to inspire others to embark on their own journeys. Join me as we uncover the beauty of our planet, one adventure at a time. Please reach out here if you need to get in touch.

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New York Flights

• Flight Atlanta - New York (ATL - LGA) $55+
• Flight Chicago - New York (ORD - LGA) $55+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Newark (FLL - EWR) $56+
• Flight Miami - Newark (MIA - EWR) $56+
• Flight Dallas - New York (DFW - LGA) $71+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - New York (FLL - LGA) $75+
• Flight Miami - New York (MIA - LGA) $75+
• Flight Orlando - New York (MCO - LGA) $84+
• Flight Orlando - Newark (MCO - EWR) $84+
• Flight Dallas - Newark (DFW - EWR) $95+
• Flight Chicago - Newark (ORD - EWR) $106+
• Flight Tampa - Newark (TPA - EWR) $110+
• Flight Chicago - New York (ORD - JFK) $127+
• Flight Los Angeles - New York (LAX - LGA) $127+
• Flight Los Angeles - Newark (LAX - EWR) $154+
• Flight San Francisco - Newark (SFO - EWR) $154+
• Flight San Francisco - New York (SFO - LGA) $169+
• Flight Miami - New York (MIA - JFK) $171+
• Flight Dallas - New York (DFW - JFK) $179+
• Flight Burbank - Newark (BUR - EWR) $199+
• Flight Seattle - Newark (SEA - EWR) $246+
• Flight Ontario - New York (ONT - JFK) $276+
• Flight Los Angeles - New York (LAX - JFK) $279+
• Flight San Francisco - New York (SFO - JFK) $296+

Orlando Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Orlando (ATL - MCO) $37+
• Flight Cleveland - Orlando (CLE - MCO) $50+
• Flight Philadelphia - Orlando (PHL - MCO) $53+
• Flight Houston - Orlando (IAH - MCO) $62+
• Flight Baltimore - Orlando (BWI - MCO) $67+
• Flight Detroit - Orlando (DTW - MCO) $69+
• Flight Chicago - Orlando (ORD - MCO) $72+

London Flights

• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LGW) $373+
• Flight New York - London (JFK - LGW) $381+
• Flight New Windsor - London (SWF - STN) $384+
• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LHR) $396+
• Flight Los Angeles - London (LAX - LGW) $411+
• Flight New York - London (JFK - LHR) $450+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - London (IAD - LHR) $477+
• Flight Newark - London (EWR - LHR) $487+
• Flight Newark - London (EWR - LGW) $488+

Fort Lauderdale Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Fort Lauderdale (ATL - FLL) $42+
• Flight Philadelphia - Fort Lauderdale (PHL - FLL) $47+
• Flight Chicago - Fort Lauderdale (ORD - FLL) $51+
• Flight Newark - Fort Lauderdale (EWR - FLL) $55+
• Flight Baltimore - Fort Lauderdale (BWI - FLL) $61+
• Flight Detroit - Fort Lauderdale (DTW - FLL) $61+
• Flight Cleveland - Fort Lauderdale (CLE - FLL) $65+

Boston Flights

• Flight Baltimore - Boston (BWI - BOS) $57+
• Flight Miami - Boston (MIA - BOS) $69+
• Flight Philadelphia - Boston (PHL - BOS) $76+
• Flight Orlando - Boston (MCO - BOS) $78+
• Flight Atlanta - Boston (ATL - BOS) $79+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Boston (FLL - BOS) $85+
• Flight Denver - Boston (DEN - BOS) $89+

India Flights

• Flight New York - New Delhi (JFK - DEL) $537+
• Flight New York - Ahmedabad (JFK - AMD) $587+
• Flight New York - Mumbai (JFK - BOM) $588+
• Flight New York - Bengaluru (JFK - BLR) $603+
• Flight San Francisco - New Delhi (SFO - DEL) $652+
• Flight San Francisco - Bengaluru (SFO - BLR) $662+
• Flight New York - Hyderabad (JFK - HYD) $671+

Japan Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - NRT) $475+
• Flight San Francisco - Tokyo (SFO - NRT) $520+
• Flight Ontario - Tokyo (ONT - NRT) $595+
• Flight Dallas - Tokyo (DFW - NRT) $624+
• Flight Chicago - Tokyo (ORD - NRT) $658+
• Flight Seattle - Tokyo (SEA - NRT) $660+
• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - HND) $736+

Phoenix Flights

• Flight Ontario - Phoenix (ONT - PHX) $38+
• Flight Dallas - Phoenix (DFW - PHX) $51+
• Flight Los Angeles - Phoenix (LAX - PHX) $53+
• Flight Denver - Phoenix (DEN - PHX) $58+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Phoenix (SLC - PHX) $58+
• Flight San Francisco - Phoenix (SFO - PHX) $59+
• Flight Portland - Phoenix (PDX - PHX) $78+

Honolulu Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Honolulu (LAX - HNL) $217+
• Flight Oakland - Honolulu (OAK - HNL) $226+
• Flight San Francisco - Honolulu (SFO - HNL) $256+
• Flight San Jose - Honolulu (SJC - HNL) $277+
• Flight Ontario - Honolulu (ONT - HNL) $279+
• Flight Las Vegas - Honolulu (LAS - HNL) $303+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Honolulu (SLC - HNL) $311+

Los Angeles Flights

• Flight San Francisco - Los Angeles (SFO - LAX) $38+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Los Angeles (SLC - LAX) $53+
• Flight Oakland - Los Angeles (OAK - LAX) $58+
• Flight Dallas - Los Angeles (DFW - LAX) $67+
• Flight Houston - Los Angeles (HOU - LAX) $78+
• Flight Houston - Los Angeles (IAH - LAX) $78+
• Flight Denver - Los Angeles (DEN - LAX) $83+
• Flight Atlanta - Los Angeles (ATL - LAX) $92+
• Flight Portland - Los Angeles (PDX - LAX) $94+

Chicago Flights

• Flight Dallas - Chicago (DFW - ORD) $35+
• Flight Atlanta - Chicago (ATL - MDW) $37+
• Flight New York - Chicago (LGA - ORD) $52+
• Flight Dallas - Chicago (DFW - MDW) $59+
• Flight Houston - Chicago (IAH - ORD) $68+
• Flight Philadelphia - Chicago (PHL - ORD) $68+
• Flight Houston - Chicago (HOU - ORD) $70+

Denver Flights

• Flight Minneapolis - Denver (MSP - DEN) $38+
• Flight Austin - Denver (AUS - DEN) $48+
• Flight Chicago - Denver (ORD - DEN) $57+
• Flight Dallas - Denver (DFW - DEN) $67+
• Flight Detroit - Denver (DTW - DEN) $67+
• Flight Houston - Denver (IAH - DEN) $68+
• Flight Atlanta - Denver (ATL - DEN) $70+

Washington, D.C. Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Baltimore (ATL - BWI) $37+
• Flight Orlando - Baltimore (MCO - BWI) $42+
• Flight Boston - Baltimore (BOS - BWI) $56+
• Flight Houston - Baltimore (HOU - BWI) $72+
• Flight Dallas - Baltimore (DFW - BWI) $73+
• Flight Los Angeles - Baltimore (LAX - BWI) $83+
• Flight Chicago - Baltimore (ORD - BWI) $86+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - DCA) $95+
• Flight Boston - Washington, D.C. (BOS - DCA) $123+
• Flight Minneapolis - Washington, D.C. (MSP - DCA) $125+
• Flight Boston - Washington, D.C. (BOS - IAD) $129+
• Flight Houston - Washington, D.C. (HOU - DCA) $139+
• Flight Atlanta - Washington, D.C. (ATL - DCA) $155+
• Flight San Francisco - Baltimore (SFO - BWI) $157+
• Flight Chicago - Washington, D.C. (ORD - DCA) $167+
• Flight Atlanta - Washington, D.C. (ATL - IAD) $184+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - DCA) $185+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - DCA) $195+
• Flight Seattle - Baltimore (SEA - BWI) $209+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - DCA) $213+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - IAD) $218+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - IAD) $223+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - IAD) $257+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - IAD) $335+

Atlanta Flights

• Flight Detroit - Atlanta (DTW - ATL) $36+
• Flight Baltimore - Atlanta (BWI - ATL) $37+
• Flight Chicago - Atlanta (MDW - ATL) $37+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (HOU - ATL) $37+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (IAH - ATL) $37+
• Flight Miami - Atlanta (MIA - ATL) $37+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Atlanta (FLL - ATL) $42+

United States Flights

• Flight Newark - Miami (EWR - MIA) $52+
• Flight Dallas - Las Vegas (DFW - LAS) $63+
• Flight Newark - Orlando (EWR - MCO) $73+
• Flight New York - Fort Lauderdale (LGA - FLL) $75+
• Flight New York - Miami (LGA - MIA) $75+

Hawaii Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Hawaii (LAX - USHI) $201+
• Flight San Francisco - Hawaii (SFO - USHI) $257+
• Flight San Jose - Hawaii (SJC - USHI) $277+
• Flight Seattle - Hawaii (SEA - USHI) $277+
• Flight Ontario - Hawaii (ONT - USHI) $285+
• Flight Las Vegas - Hawaii (LAS - USHI) $298+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Hawaii (SLC - USHI) $311+

Tampa Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Tampa (ATL - TPA) $45+
• Flight Cincinnati - Tampa (CVG - TPA) $48+
• Flight Raleigh - Tampa (RDU - TPA) $53+
• Flight Chicago - Tampa (MDW - TPA) $58+
• Flight Philadelphia - Tampa (PHL - TPA) $74+
• Flight Chicago - Tampa (ORD - TPA) $75+
• Flight Cleveland - Tampa (CLE - TPA) $75+

Houston Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Houston (ATL - IAH) $43+
• Flight Denver - Houston (DEN - IAH) $57+
• Flight Orlando - Houston (MCO - IAH) $63+
• Flight Dallas - Houston (DFW - IAH) $64+
• Flight Chicago - Houston (ORD - IAH) $69+
• Flight Charlotte - Houston (CLT - IAH) $72+
• Flight Philadelphia - Houston (PHL - IAH) $72+

Las Vegas Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Las Vegas (LAX - LAS) $23+
• Flight Burbank - Las Vegas (BUR - LAS) $34+
• Flight Oakland - Las Vegas (OAK - LAS) $47+
• Flight San Francisco - Las Vegas (SFO - LAS) $61+
• Flight Portland - Las Vegas (PDX - LAS) $66+
• Flight Santa Ana - Las Vegas (SNA - LAS) $66+
• Flight Denver - Las Vegas (DEN - LAS) $73+
• Flight Seattle - Las Vegas (SEA - LAS) $83+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (HOU - LAS) $84+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (IAH - LAS) $84+
• Flight Philadelphia - Las Vegas (PHL - LAS) $87+
• Flight Detroit - Las Vegas (DTW - LAS) $89+
• Flight Chicago - Las Vegas (ORD - LAS) $90+

Miami Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Miami (ATL - MIA) $38+
• Flight Philadelphia - Miami (PHL - MIA) $47+
• Flight Chicago - Miami (ORD - MIA) $51+
• Flight Chicago - Miami (MDW - MIA) $54+
• Flight Baltimore - Miami (BWI - MIA) $63+
• Flight Charlotte - Miami (CLT - MIA) $68+
• Flight Dallas - Miami (DFW - MIA) $68+
• Flight Raleigh - Miami (RDU - MIA) $68+
• Flight Boston - Miami (BOS - MIA) $69+
• Flight Houston - Miami (HOU - MIA) $75+
• Flight Houston - Miami (IAH - MIA) $75+
• Flight Detroit - Miami (DTW - MIA) $76+
• Flight Cleveland - Miami (CLE - MIA) $81+
• Flight Denver - Miami (DEN - MIA) $100+
• Flight Minneapolis - Miami (MSP - MIA) $112+
• Flight Los Angeles - Miami (LAX - MIA) $119+
• Flight Ontario - Miami (ONT - MIA) $149+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Miami (DCA - MIA) $149+
• Flight San Francisco - Miami (SFO - MIA) $162+
• Flight New York - Miami (JFK - MIA) $176+

San Francisco Flights

• Flight Ontario - San Francisco (ONT - SFO) $36+
• Flight Phoenix - San Francisco (PHX - SFO) $59+
• Flight Los Angeles - San Francisco (LAX - SFO) $63+
• Flight San Diego - San Francisco (SAN - SFO) $65+
• Flight Denver - San Francisco (DEN - SFO) $82+
• Flight Dallas - San Francisco (DFW - SFO) $99+
• Flight Chicago - San Francisco (MDW - SFO) $103+
• Flight Santa Ana - San Francisco (SNA - SFO) $114+
• Flight Minneapolis - San Francisco (MSP - SFO) $118+
• Flight Atlanta - San Francisco (ATL - SFO) $120+
• Flight Austin - San Francisco (AUS - SFO) $123+
• Flight Chicago - San Francisco (ORD - SFO) $128+
• Flight Houston - San Francisco (HOU - SFO) $137+
• Flight Houston - San Francisco (IAH - SFO) $137+

Seattle Flights

• Flight Denver - Seattle (DEN - SEA) $78+
• Flight Ontario - Seattle (ONT - SEA) $89+
• Flight San Diego - Seattle (SAN - SEA) $91+
• Flight Phoenix - Seattle (PHX - SEA) $96+
• Flight San Francisco - Seattle (SFO - SEA) $99+
• Flight Minneapolis - Seattle (MSP - SEA) $109+
• Flight Los Angeles - Seattle (LAX - SEA) $110+

Paris Flights

• Flight Boston - Paris (BOS - CDG) $304+
• Flight Baltimore - Paris (BWI - CDG) $316+
• Flight Los Angeles - Paris (LAX - ORY) $316+
• Flight New Windsor - Paris (SWF - CDG) $321+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Paris (IAD - CDG) $330+
• Flight Newark - Paris (EWR - ORY) $391+
• Flight Los Angeles - Paris (LAX - CDG) $392+

Europe Flights

• Flight New York - Madrid (JFK - MAD) $367+
• Flight New Windsor - London (SWF - STN) $387+
• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LHR) $390+
• Flight Newark - Paris (EWR - ORY) $402+
• Flight Newark - Barcelona (EWR - BCN) $415+
• Flight New York - Athens (JFK - ATH) $425+

Florida Flights

• Flight Philadelphia - Florida (PHL - USFL) $47+
• Flight Newark - Florida (EWR - USFL) $52+
• Flight Boston - Florida (BOS - USFL) $53+
• Flight Baltimore - Florida (BWI - USFL) $58+
• Flight Chicago - Florida (ORD - USFL) $67+
• Flight Dallas - Florida (DFW - USFL) $67+
• Flight New York - Florida (LGA - USFL) $75+

Dallas Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Dallas (ATL - DFW) $51+
• Flight Chicago - Dallas (ORD - DFW) $51+
• Flight Minneapolis - Dallas (MSP - DFW) $53+
• Flight Orlando - Dallas (MCO - DFW) $64+
• Flight Charlotte - Dallas (CLT - DFW) $68+
• Flight Miami - Dallas (MIA - DFW) $70+
• Flight Los Angeles - Dallas (LAX - DFW) $73+

San Diego Flights

• Flight Phoenix - San Diego (PHX - SAN) $48+
• Flight Denver - San Diego (DEN - SAN) $57+
• Flight San Jose - San Diego (SJC - SAN) $57+
• Flight Chicago - San Diego (ORD - SAN) $64+
• Flight Sacramento - San Diego (SMF - SAN) $65+
• Flight Oakland - San Diego (OAK - SAN) $67+
• Flight San Francisco - San Diego (SFO - SAN) $68+

Frequently asked questions

What do i need to know before booking a flight.

There are various factors to consider when booking a flight including cost, fare classes, baggage policies, the complications of flying long haul, and complying with airport regulations. To make your booking journey smoother KAYAK has developed a comprehensive flight guide including insights on finding affordable flights, packing efficiently, and utilizing the best travel tools.

Which month of the year are flight prices lowest?

It’s well established that flights in the low season are generally cheaper than ticket prices during the high season. That means that knowing which month to find the lowest priced plane tickets will depend heavily on seasonality and your destination. While avoiding peak travel times can help you keep costs down, our data shows that the month with the lowest priced plane tickets for domestic flights based on all searches made on KAYAK in the last 12 months was January, while the most expensive was March. If you’re booking an international flight, then January is the cheapest month to fly and June the most expensive.

Can flying international flights with a layover save money on airfare?

For many long-haul international flights, flying non-stop is not possible and you will have to fly with a layover. Some routes will offer both and you could consider flying with a layover for a number of reasons. Firstly, breaking up what would otherwise be a long-haul flight, taking a rest and then completing the journey might make the flight more manageable. Secondly, prices can also be lower than non-stop flights, so while it might take longer for you to reach your destination, you could save money. We’ve looked at prices over the last 12 months for the 100 most popular international destinations for KAYAK users and on average, prices for non-stop flights were cheaper than flights with a layover.

How do I find the best flight deals on KAYAK?

A simple flight search at https://www.kayak.com/flights scans for prices on hundreds of travel sites in seconds. We gather flight deals from across the web and put them in one place. Then on the search results page you can use various filters to compare options for the same flight and easily choose the best flight deal from all of the deals coming straight from the travel sites to your screen, with no extra fee from KAYAK.

Does KAYAK query more flight providers than competitors?

Yes, KAYAK has access to more data and information than online travel agencies and consistently outperforms the competition in accuracy, globally.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you flights up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. That way, you can see if leaving a day or two earlier will find you a better deal. You can also select the flexible "weekend" or "month" search options to widen your search range and find the cheapest price that works for you.

What is the cheapest day of the week to book a flight?

The best day to book your flight depends on a number of factors, but there are general trends that you can follow to increase your chances of cheaper plane tickets. Based on an analysis of KAYAK data for all flights departing from inside United States over the last 12 months, the cheapest day to fly for domestic flights is Wednesday. For international flights, Tuesday had the cheapest tickets on average.

When is the best time to buy plane tickets - Last minute or in advance?

Last minute flight deals are definitely up for grabs but when exactly to purchase your plane tickets will depend on where you’re traveling to and from. Based on all data for flight searches made on KAYAK over the last 12 months, prices for domestic flights remained below the average price up to 1 weeks before departure. For international flights, deals could still be had up to 1 weeks prior to the departure date, with prices remaining below average. If you’re flexible, KAYAK brings you both advance and last minute one-way and round-trip flight deals.

How does KAYAK find such low flight prices?

KAYAK processes over 2 billion flight queries annually and displays results from hundreds of airlines and third party sites, allowing it to find a variety of flight prices and options. It also displays results from 2M+ properties along with rental cars, vacation packages, activities and millions of verified reviews so users can see as many available travel options as possible.

How can Hacker Fares save me money?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets on different airlines when it can save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

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The Vacationer • Travel Guides • Travel Tips

49 Best Travel Tips to Save Time, Money, & Stress in 2024

Traveling locally, across the country, or to another continent is an exciting way to form memories and experience other cultures. But an awry trip can usher in unnecessary stress, expenses, and potential regrets.

These travel tips can help you have a successful trip from the initial planning stages, as you pack your bags, and once you reach your destination. 

Table of Contents

Best Travel Tips While Preparing for a Trip

This collection of tips covers just about everything you should consider when traveling and before you go. You are most likely practicing some of them, making them a good reminder, and others can help prevent uncommon travel surprises.

1. Book At Least Six Weeks in Advance

Instead of carving time out of your schedule to book your trip at a specific date or time (such as Tuesdays at 3 a.m. using a private browsing session to find discounted fares), a more effective strategy is researching travel options at least four to six weeks in advance.

You can still find cheap flights and ideal flight times at least six weeks before departure. Getting on the hunt two or three months before major holidays is also good.  

Last-minute travel savings are possible but you may be unable to get a desired departure time, layover window, or destination. Waiting until the final days can be worth it if you have a flexible schedule and are open-minded about where you travel to.

Learn More: Best Days and Times to Book Flights

2. Travel in the Off-Season or Shoulder Season

Avoiding the peak travel season is one of the easiest ways to pay less for flights and lodging. You also will enjoy smaller crowds and the weather can still be decent for your intended activities.

For example, visiting Spain is delightful in March and April but travel prices are elevated during Semana Santa (Holy Week) when most cities have processions that virtually shut down the city.

Another example is visiting a beach town during the shoulder season. The shoulder season is the time between the peak and the offseason. So you could take a trip to Cape May, NJ from the middle of May to the end of June instead of during the July/August peak. The weather is still good enough during the shoulder season to enjoy most peak-season activities.

3. Compare Multiple Booking Sites

Comparing prices from several travel booking sites can help you find the best rate within minutes. Airlines, hotels, and rental cars offer several slots to third-party booking sites and you can pay less than booking directly from the carrier.

It’s worth your time to check prices directly from the carrier website but also from one or more third-party booking sites (online travel agencies or OTAs) like Hotels.com , Kayak , or Google Flights .

The Vacationer Tip

Along with looking for the best flight schedule and prices, you can use our guide to help find the best seats on the plane and book them for cheap or for free.

4. Book Directly from the Travel Provider

While you can find discounted prices through online travel agencies and third-party booking sites, booking directly from the airline, hotel, or rental car agency provides more protection if you must cancel or reschedule. This is especially important for flights and the 24-hour cancellation rule .

With third-party reservations, you may be locked into a particular itinerary that could be non-refundable or non-changeable. You will need to call the booking site to determine what your alternatives are. If you’re eligible for a refund, it can take longer to receive your funds.

5. Stay at a Hostel to Save Money

Hostels are a common and safe way to secure affordable lodging in Europe and Asia. If you’re traveling solo or in a group and okay with not having as much privacy, a hostel helps keep your travel costs down. 

Despite many misconceptions, most establishments are well-run with clean bathrooms and bedding. You may also be able to get a basic breakfast at some. With that said, be sure to research your options and consider paying a little more to get more luxurious accommodations.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Staying in a Hostel

6. Consider Vacation Rentals for Extended Stays

Vacation rental websites like Airbnb and VRBO have become immensely more popular since the pandemic as people yearned for privacy. While hotels are usually better for shorter stays as you avoid expensive cleaning fees and service fees, a vacation home or villa can be more cost-effective for extended stays.

At a minimum, a rental or an extended-stay hotel is more likely to offer a full kitchen suite that allows you to cook full meals instead of relying on packaged snacks or what fits inside the hotel mini-fridge. 

Vacation rentals can also be cheaper per square foot if traveling as a family. Instead of squeezing into a hotel suite or booking multiple rooms, you have spacious accommodations. If you have small children, the extra space can keep you from losing your mind on rainy days.

The Vacationer’s Tip: While many people focus on spending less for flights, hotels and vacation rentals can have variable pricing. Here is how to find and book cheap hotels to enjoy clean and spacious lodging on a budget.

7. Buy Travel Insurance for Expensive or International Trips

Travel insurance is inexpensive on most itineraries and can save you thousands of dollars if your non-refundable travel is canceled or delayed for qualifying reasons. 

Obtaining coverage is a good option for expensive trips. Picking up a policy can also be worth it when traveling outside the United States as you can have medical coverage and emergency evacuation benefits that your ordinary health insurance may not provide outside the country.

You should also consider booking your trips using credit cards with travel insurance coverage . These benefits are sufficient for low-cost excursions and can activate before your standalone travel insurance policy can. They can also provide complimentary rental car coverage .

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers the best credit card travel insurance benefits. Namely, you can be eligible for trip interruption and cancellation coverage of up to $10,000 per person ($20,000 per trip), primary auto rental collision damage waiver, up to $500 per ticket in trip delay reimbursement, and up to $100,000 in emergency evacuation  Learn How to Apply Here

8. Consider Annual Travel Insurance Plans

If you travel regularly, an annual travel insurance policy covers multiple trips at a lower premium than buying a new policy for each trip. This is an excellent option for frequent leisure travelers and business travelers.

9. Review Airline and Hotel Cancellation Policies

Your travel plans may change unexpectedly for personal or work reasons. Before you book, take the time to review the cancellation and modification policies just to make sure they are reasonable.

You want to make sure you have a strong possibility of getting a refund or a travel credit to redeem later. Being locked into a non-refundable itinerary may not be worth the savings unless you’re booking right before you go or your travel insurance may issue a refund.

In addition to researching the cancellation policy, be sure to review an airline’s seating and carry-on policy to avoid add-on fees and restrictions. 

10. Choose Early Flights

Early morning flights are the best time to fly for several reasons. First, these departures are less likely to be delayed as it’s a new travel day with rested crews and minimal weather-related interruptions. 

Additionally, these flights can be cheaper as you need to arrive at the airport a little earlier. Routes popular with business travel can be an exception to this rule, but you can anticipate paying less than for a mid-day sortie.

Learn More: How to Avoid Flight Delays and Cancellations

11. Arrive at the Airport Early

Photo: Pixabay

Getting to the airport at least an hour before departure for domestic flights at small airports or when you’re not checking luggage. Plan on arriving at least two hours for domestic flights at busy airports, if you’re checking a bag, or traveling with small children.

What about international flights? Plan on arriving at least three hours before departure to allow additional time for a potentially longer check-in time.

Learn More: How Early Should I Get to the Airport?

12. Qualify for Expedited Airport Security 

If you fly several times a year, obtaining expedited airport security credentials can help you avoid long airport security lines. 

The first step is applying for a federally-administered Trusted Traveler Program, such as:

• TSA PreCheck : Enjoy expedited security at domestic airports only.  
• Global Entry : Get expedited processing at customs lines on international flights plus TSA PreCheck benefits. 
• NEXUS : Ideal for travel between the U.S. and Canada. It also includes Global Entry and TSA PreCheck benefits. 

Several rewards credit cards are offering free Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fee credits to save a few dollars.

In addition to Trusted Traveler programs, you can also shave a few minutes off security wait times with CLEAR at select major airports and stadiums. Where available, this pre-security program can help you reach the expedited TSA security lines sooner. 

Getting a Redress Number can help those who frequently have boarding pass issues, are subject to additional security screenings (including having SSSS on their boarding pass ), and those who experience delayed or denied boardings.

Learn More: How to Get Through TSA Airport Security Faster

13. Relax at an Airport Lounge

If you have a long layover or arrive at the airport several hours later, visiting an airport lounge (like a Centurion Lounge ) can help you grab a complimentary meal and drink, and recharge your devices. You can also have a comfortable place to sit and the luxury lounges offer spa treatment, sleeping rooms, and shower suites to clean up.

Single-day passes are pricey but there are several credit cards with lounge access . Most lounges allow entry for the primary cardholder and up to two guests complimentary up to three hours before your next flight’s departure.

Airport lounge access is just one way to reduce air travel stress . Check out our article for additional suggestions. 

14. Check Your Passport Expiration Date

Some countries and airlines won’t let you travel if your passport expires within six months. If you’re planning a trip, see if your passport is expiring soon to prevent delaying your trip.

Consider renewing your passport early if you’re approaching the six-month expiration window as the passport processing times can take up to 13 weeks to receive your new document. You can pay extra for expedited processing but the process can still take several weeks.

After submitting your renewal request, you can check your passport application status online .

Finally, use our How to Take Your Own Passport Photo guide to simplify things when applying or renewing.

15. Don’t Go Into Debt for Vacation

As much as you’re earning to get away on a dream trip, it’s probably not worth going into debt for. Whether your bank is offering a vacation loan or you intend on carrying a credit card balance (even with a 0% APR), borrowing money to travel can backfire.

Instead, look for the best options within your spending power. Consider setting aside money each month and delaying your trip if necessary.

In addition to saving up for travel in a dedicated savings account, you can use travel rewards credit cards to redeem points to defray purchases. Some cards offer annual statement credits that reimburse eligible travel bookings. 

Additionally, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards also offer complimentary benefits to spend less.  

Making a travel budget can help you plan for travel expenses so you’re not nervous about running out of cash while you travel or having regrets once you return home.

16. Exercise and Stretch

Once you depart for your trip, be sure to stretch and perform basic exercises as time and space permit. It can be as basic as stationary stretches while sitting in your seat to walking the airport terminal. If driving, stay outside for a few extra minutes at the gas station or rest area.

Stretching and being active once you arrive is also beneficial and can help you sleep better.

Best Travel Tips for Packing

17. only bring a carry-on.

When possible, only bring a carry-on to avoid lost or missing checked luggage. You can also avoid checked baggage fees and excessive weight charges if you overpack. Using the best carry-on can help you find the perfect soft or hard-sided luggage to fit your travel gear.

If you need to check a bag, it most likely won’t get lost but could get delayed. Here’s our helpful guide on what to do during baggage delays .

18. Pack as Light as Possible

Packing is stressful; Many people overpack to ease their anxiety, which sometimes means bringing extra suitcases or paying to check a bag. Write down everything you think you need on your packing list. After it’s complete, cut it down to the bare minimum.

Pack underwear and socks for the number of showers you expect to take; Add an emergency pair for every five or so days of your trip. Shirts and pants can usually be worn multiple days in a row. If your accommodation has a washing machine, you can pack even less.

19. Carry-On Overnight Travel Essentials

You never know when a flight delay will turn into spending the night in the terminal or at a nearby hotel. While the airline may provide meal vouchers, you should pack these travel essentials to freshen up:

• A change of clothes, especially extra underwear and socks
• Powerbank (they cost about $20 and have several phone/tablet recharges)
• Travel charger

Even if you’re not stuck somewhere overnight, these small and compact items can also help you rest while on the road:

• Earplugs (great for plane rides and noisy hotels)
• Noise-canceling earbuds or headphones
• Travel blanket
• Travel pillow (see the best travel neck pillows )

Adding these carry-on essentials to your packing list can prepare you for nearly any change of plans and to weather a long layover or flight. 

20. Don’t Forget a Power Adapter

A power adapter is essential in most foreign destinations to charge your devices. Traveling to Canada or Mexico is an exception as the standard voltage is 120v and these countries have the same outlet design as the United States. Check to see the adapter requirements for the country you are visiting before leaving.

The Vacationer’s Phil Dengler recently visited South Africa and needed a Type M adapter. He purchased this Ceptics International Power Plug Adapter Travel Set , which includes 13 adapters for just about every foreign country.

21. Use Packing Cubes

There are a couple of ways to organize your travel luggage to squeeze everything in. Your bag may include built-in storage compartments or you might roll up clothing and put them in packing cubes or vacuum storage bags. If you’re on a budget, rubber bands or plastic bags can also do the job. I recommend the following packing cubes: Veken 6 Set of Various Colored Packing Cubes .

Packing for a vacation can feel like a fine art at times, even as a seasoned traveler. Our travel packing list can cover everything you need to bring so you don’t forget and have to buy something along the way.

22. Bring an Empty Water Bottle

For over 20 years, it’s become ingrained for air travelers to pack liquids in containers containing no more than three ounces. This security rule means you can’t bring a filled water bottle through airport security, but you can bring an empty one.

Most airports have filtered water dispensers in the post-security terminal that you can fill up your bottle with and avoid paying big bucks for bottled water. You also won’t struggle to stay hydrated during your journey.

If you’re driving, consider bringing a travel water filter or a portable filter that you can use in your hotel room to pay pennies for filtered water.

23. Dress Comfortably for the Flight

You should dress comfortably for the plane ride. Dressing in layers with a light jacket or a travel blanket can help you stay warm if the cabin is cool. Bringing travel slippers or slip-on shoes on long-haul flights is another overlooked comfort hack. Wear sweatpants instead of jeans.

24. Bring Duplicate Travel Documents

Take a few minutes to photocopy your critical travel documents such as your government-issued IDs and passport. Be sure to keep these papers separate from your originals in case one set gets lost.

Once you arrive at your destination, you may decide to go out in public with your duplicates and keep your originals plus at least one payment card in the room safe. That way, a pickpocket doesn’t run off with the more valuable set and you still have a way to make purchases. 

Taking it a step further, write down your credit card numbers and the emergency contact number if you need to call and cancel if your plastic goes missing. If you don’t have a phone number, you can also look for a pay phone that should have a toll-free number to contact Visa or Mastercard to cancel your card.

25. Keep Valuables at Home and Bring a Lock

Unless it’s necessary to bring them along for a business function or a personal event, leave your valuables at home. The hassle of keeping them secure and the risk of losing them may not be worth the replacement cost. 

This includes your fine jewelry, watches, and high-end electronics that are nice to use but optional for this trip. Additionally, these items can make you a target for thieves.

The Vacationer’s Phil Dengler also recommends bringing a luggage lock or a standard combination lock.

26. Install a Luggage Tracking Device

Bluetooth tracking devices like the Apple AirTag are a small and easy way to see where your carry-on and checked luggage are at all times. A single piece is about the size of a coin and costs $30 or less.

27. Bring Comfy Walking Shoes

Most of the world walks more steps than we do daily. Therefore, it’s essential to pack at least one pair of comfortable shoes or sandals to stroll the streets of your destination. Comfortable footwear is also a must-have if you’re staying stateside.

28. Keep a Travel Journal

Consider packing a notebook or diary into your carry-on. Handwriting your favorite travel memories in a journal is an easy way to remember the intricacies that you may struggle to remember years later when you reflect. 

For example, you can write down what you did each day along with exciting facts. Having everybody share their favorite activity for the day is another way to use this journal.

Best Travel Tips for Once You Arrive

29. learn the local customs.

Words and expressions can have different meanings where you’re traveling to. It’s also a good idea to know some of the common phrases and customs the locals practice so you can have a basic conversation.

You can research these details online or in a guidebook.

30. Dress As a Local

Blending in with the crowd can help prevent unwanted attention from panhandlers and pickpockets. For example, don’t wear revealing clothing when the culture favors pants or long dresses. Researching fashion advice for your destination is your best option.

31. Be Wary of Local Scams

Brushing up on the latest tourist scams can help you avoid bad situations. A recent travel guidebook is a reliable way to find the most common tactics for your destination. Two to look out for are unofficial taxis and fake wifi hotspots. 

32. Consider Wearing a Money Belt

Long-time travelers have a love-hate relationship with money belts as they point you out as a tourist if you’re constantly reaching for it in public. Additionally, wearing the belt all day can be a nuisance as it’s an extra layer of fabric you’re not used to.

At the same time, it’s harder to steal a money belt than to grab something from your pockets or purse. They are also inexpensive to buy on Amazon and don’t take up a lot of suitcase space if you decide not to use it.

33. Download Travel Apps

Smartphones make international travel substantially easier as you can download various apps before leaving home so you can hit the ground running.

Some types of apps you may consider downloading for these purposes:

• Offline Maps: Many consider Maps.me to be the best offline maps app and more user-friendly than Apple Maps or Google Maps. You may still try getting paper maps from a local tourism office or bookstore once you arrive though.
• Translation: A translator app for traveling can be pre-loaded with basic phrases with offline access. It may also be able to interpret voice recordings and photographs.
• Jet Lag: Flying to the other side of the world takes a toll on your body and sleep cycle. Timeshifter can help you conquer jet lag quicker while traveling and upon returning home.   

Downloading apps for your airline, hotel, and travel booking sites will help you access your digital reservation information and receive itinerary updates. Some travelers also enjoy downloading tourism apps like Tripadvisor or Yelp to quickly access ratings for attractions.

34. Get an International Sim Card or Phone Plan

Your stateside phone carrier may offer an international plan that you can upgrade to while you’re out of the country. Contract carriers and prepaid providers offer this overseas coverage.

Alternatively, an international sim card can be a budget-friendly and reliable option if you visit multiple countries. Just make sure your device is unlocked and GSM-compatible.  

35. Avoid Eating in Touristy Areas  

You’re likely to pay more and potentially get lower-quality food when eating in touristy areas. This isn’t always the case. For example, dining within sight of Rome’s Pantheon is an exception as there are well-rated restaurants for a memorable ambiance.

However, going a few streets over or to an adjacent community can be the ticket to finding authentic food. Asking your hotel or trustworthy locals can help you find a good spot in addition to researching places to eat online.

36. Lunch Can Be Cheaper than Supper

If you’re only planning on eating out one meal per day, your mid-day meal can be more affordable than in the evening. 

Depending on the restaurant, there can be separate menus for the bar and dining room. Staying in the bar can be more affordable and your meal options can be similar.

37. Use American Chains for Public Restrooms and Wifi

Finding a public bathroom can be challenging in foreign destinations. American restaurants like McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Taco Bell are more likely to offer public access to restrooms and wifi, although you may need to make a small purchase.

38. Look for Free Walking Tours

Free walking tours are common in popular tourist destinations both stateside and internationally. These tours can last a couple of hours and hit the cultural and historical points of interest. They can provide an idea of what you want to spend more time exploring later.  

While these tours don’t have an entry fee, nothing in life is genuinely 100% free ,and leaving a tip is expected in most situations. You may decide to tip more if the guide is knowledgeable and engaging.

39. A Paid Tour Can Be Better Than a Free Tour

You should also compare the free tours to private, guided tours. A paid tour can provide more hands-on support and access to more landmarks. 

In addition to researching the traditional tour providers, the experiences section in Airbnb can also provide curated opportunities to see the sights, enjoy culinary delights, or do physical activities like paddleboarding or folk dancing. 

Further Reading: Best Websites for Booking Cheap Tickets, Tours, & Activities

40. Look for Discounted Sightseeing Passes

Museums and entertainment attractions offer discounted and priority admission with sightseeing pass companies. So, instead of buying tickets directly from the tourist attractions you wish to visit, purchasing a city attraction card in advance can save money and means you won’t need to wait for hours (potentially) to buy a ticket at the door.

For domestic trips, CityPASS® offers discounted packages in approximately 15 major U.S. cities. Entertainment.com can also help you save on experiences in the United States and Canada.

If you’re flying to the “Eternal City” of Rome, Italy, the Roma Tourist Card is worth the upfront cost as you can enjoy these benefits:   

• Skip-the-line access at the Roman Colosseum
• Guided tour of St. Peter’s Basilica
• Access to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
• Audio guides for the Pantheon and Rome
• Free return transfer to or from Rome’s international airports (Ciampino and Fiumicino)
• 10% discount on other attractions, museums, and tours

Depending on the program, you may need to book your pass weeks in advance.

41. Get an Interrail Pass for a Eurotrip

If you’re backpacking Europe or touring several countries, an Interrail Pass from Eurail can make it easier to finalize your transportation plan using an interactive map. This platform lets you visit up to 33 countries by rail with a single pass. 

42. Have a Flexible Travel Schedule

Mapping out an initial plan for each day can help you seize the day and optimize your time of playing tourist. Meanwhile, remaining flexible is pivotal as several variables can alter your itinerary such as:

• A change in the weather
• Accomplishing more than you originally scheduled 
• Making friends with other travelers and having dinner with them
• Realizing a planned activity isn’t as appealing once you arrive 

Another related suggestion is to get out and explore the city and the immediate area on your arrival date (time permitting) so you have a better idea of what to do the next day.

43. Wear Sunscreen Early and Often For Beach & Outdoor Trips

There is nothing worse than getting a bad sunburn at the beginning of a trip. Find a good facial sunscreen and buy a travel-sized container. Apply it to your face and neck a few times per day. For beach trips, either cover up with a hat and clothing or apply strong sunscreen to your body multiple times per day. While it may be annoying, it is much better than dealing with painful and peeling sunburn.

Sunscreen is usually marked up at typical tourist spots. If you check a bag, consider buying what you need before leaving and packing it.

44. Use an ATM Instead of a Currency Exchange Booth

Instead of heading directly to the currency exchange booth at the airport or train terminal, look for an ATM instead. Several should be in the public terminals or you can look for a local bank branch to find a secure location.

Why? ATMs provide better currency exchange ratios than the money exchange booth. Even if you pay foreign transaction fees and non-network ATM fees, you will most likely come out ahead financially speaking.

45. Use a Credit Card With No Foreign Transaction Fees

Many travel-focused credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred , the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card , and The Platinum Card from American Express do not have foreign transaction fees. Use cards like those when traveling internationally to avoid potentially expensive fees.

46. Bring at Least One Backup Credit Card

Getting stuck on vacation with no access to money (besides cash) is not something you want to experience; Your main credit card could get lost or stolen. Carry at least one backup credit card (ideally with no foreign transaction fees if overseas) on all trips.

Phil Dengler’s Favorite Travel Tips

Here are a few of Phil’s favorite travel tips.

47. Be Very Flexible – Pick Your Travel Dates Based on the Cheapest Days to Fly

Flights are usually the most costly part of a vacation. I recommend using Google Flights calendar view to find the cheapest days to fly to and from your destination. After identifying those days, book your airfare. You must be flexible, but it can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars planning a vacation this way.

Further Reading: How to Find Cheap Flights and How to Use Google Flights

48. Book the Aisle and Window Seats When Traveling in Pairs

I always book the aisle and window seats when flying with my girlfriend or a friend. No one wants to sit in the middle seat, so people rarely select it. Doing this usually gives us the entire row to ourselves.

It does not work on full flights, however. The good news is people are usually willing to trade their middle seat. Simply offer them your aisle or window seat and you still get to sit next to your significant other or friend.

Further Reading: Can You (and Should You) Change Airplane Seats With Someone Else on a Flight?

49. Follow Proper Airline Etiquette

Knowing how to properly act on a plane can better your flying experience. See our following guides for more information.

• Airplane Seat Reclining Etiquette
• Overhead Bin Space Etiquette – Who Does it Belong To and How to Avoid Fights

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

Taking the time to plan for a vacation, whether it’s the annual beach trip or you’re trying some new place, lets you practice these travel tips and not stress before or during your expedition. 

The best part is that you don’t need to be a travel pro to successfully implement these suggestions. If you’re a beginner, try adopting several more each time you leave home.

By Josh Patoka

Josh Patoka writes about maximizing travel rewards for The Vacationer. As well, he contributes to several personal finance sites specializing in making money, paying off debt, and investing.

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Everything You Need To Know about Costco Travel Packages

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

When booking travel online, big names like Expedia, Travelocity, and Orbitz come to mind. There’s another player in the field that many don’t automatically think of. Costco Wholesale Corporation, or Costco, is synonymous with offering wholesale pricing directly to consumers in their warehouse stores. They also sell travel and Costco travel packages.

The Costco Travel division has been around since 2000, and Costco members should take advantage of the deals. Here’s what you should know about Costco travel packages. 

What To Know about Costco Travel

Costco Travel offers discounts on rental cars, cruises, guided group trips, and vacation packages . One of the most important things to know is that it’s only available to Costco members. There are two Personal Memberships, Gold Star or Executive. An Executive membership offers a 2% reward of up to $1000 per year on travel spend. There are also two Business memberships, Business and Business Executive. 

According to Costco Travel, Costco’s warehouses are known for purchasing items at a lower cost and re-selling them in their stores. Costco Travel’s buyers are no different. They negotiate lower prices on all their travel offerings and then share the discount with members. They can also offer complimentary resort credits, upgrades, and transfers at some of their resort partners.

Types of Costco Travel Packages

Costco travel packages feature hotel or other lodging accommodations, airport transfers, car rentals, and activities in 23 countries. Costco’s Vacation Package website sorts its hundreds of offerings into categories by interests, including all-inclusive resorts and cruises, romance and honeymoon options, and family-friendly fun. Some travel packages include airfare, but airfare can be an add-on to most packages. Currently, the packages are only available to residents of the United States. 

In addition to the bundled vacation package above, Costco Travel has three other types of packages. One option is guided trips, such as African safaris, which take place with outside providers. Another is cruise packages, which are offered on 12 different cruise lines. Theme park lovers can also purchase packages that include discounted stays with admission tickets to Disney or Universal properties. 

As with its well-known Kirkland brand products sold in stores, Costco Travel offers its private label Kirkland Signature Vacations, which feature a variety of extras and special discounts. The Signature Vacations are choices of cruises to the Adriatic, Alaska, The Mexican Riviera, Bahamas, and other European locations. Buyer’s Choice trips are one tier below and offer a digital Costco Shop Card. Lastly, Limited-Time Deals are trips members must book by a specific date to optimize their savings. 

Are Costco Travel Packages Worth It?

You may wonder if Costco travel packages are worth it in terms of money saving and other factors. As with any travel, research is essential to find the best deals. Costco members would still want to look at other discount sites, including Travelzoo, Groupon, and Priceline. These are some advantages to booking with Costco Travel. 

• Costco’s negotiated pricing
• Time savings, as they have done the bundling for you
• Refund price differences if the price drops between booking and departure
• Communicating travel alerts and visitor information during the booking process
• Travel insurance benefits are provided 
• Help while traveling by providing a contact number for any issues on the trip
• A 5 to 8% rebate on lodging costs in the form of a digital Costco Shop card
• 3% cash back on travel spend for Costco Anywhere Visa cardholders

Erin Towner, a Costco member from Texas, has used Costco Travel three times and purchased a package for her honeymoon travel . “There were many packages to the French Polynesian Islands, but we ultimately decided that we didn’t want to island hop, so our package was only for Bora Bora,” she said. 

Her package included roundtrip flights from Los Angeles, boat transfers, five nights in an overwater villa, a daily breakfast buffet, and a nightly three-course dinner for $9100 for two people. She compared the pricing of Costco’s package overall to the individual items via the companies with her loyalty accounts. “Booking only the hotel through my loyalty account was more than the entire package via Costco,” she said.

Considerations Before Booking

There are some considerations to keep in mind before booking with Costco Travel.

Janice Moskoff, a Costco member, travel writer, and blogger of Gather and Go Travel , shares some potential downsides when considering Costco travel packages. “Costco works with a select group of large hotel and resort groups in a set number of destinations,” she says. “This practice means you will have fewer places to choose from.”  

Moskoff shared that there are also limitations with flight bookings through Costco because you cannot use frequent flier miles for discounts and seat upgrades, and flight changes must be made directly through Costco. “Since the savings on bundling airfare into a travel package are typically small, you may want to skip the flight bundle and stick to buying plane tickets separately,” she says. 

How to Book Costco Travel Packages

Costco offers several ways to book travel options, including travel packages. If your destination or package has been chosen, booking online is the quickest. You can also shop and purchase travel from Costco’s mobile app. If you need recommendations or custom options, or have questions, utilizing the Costco Travel Center is your best bet. Costco Travel’s employees are trained travel professionals who can advise members on vacation bookings. 

Towner shares her experience using the Costco Travel Center, as she called them with questions about personalizing her trip package. “I definitely recommend booking via Costco,” she says. “If there’s anything about the package you want to modify, don’t hesitate to call and speak with a representative to assist you in making the package exactly what you want!” 

While you cannot book travel in the warehouse stores, most stores feature a kiosk near the exit for Costco Travel. Here, you can pick up their seasonal 60-page travel catalog, which is color-coded by each destination or category. There’s a QR code next to each package listing to scan for more information and booking. It also lists a star rating for each package’s hotel and an explanation for each star level. 

Other Costco Travel Options

While Costco Travel primarily focuses on vacation packages, they also offer rental car and hotel bookings. Their rental car offerings through four providers provide some of the most competitive options. If your road trip takes you near a Costco, you’ll save on gas that way, too! 

“Costco generally offers the best car rental rates and terms, like a complimentary additional driver and free cancellations,” notes Moskoff. “For these reasons and the easy booking process, Costco is always my first top when searching for a rental car.”

If you’re a Costco member planning an upcoming trip, you’ll want to consider browsing the Costco Travel site before booking anything. A variety of Costco travel packages are offered to members, which are all-inclusive for resort stays and more. It’s also important to do your due diligence to find the best deal. There’s a destination and package awaiting anyone looking for a trip of a lifetime.

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