by Ethel Smith

Created on: July 17, 2008   Last Updated: February 28, 2011

The present day tourist industry is a funny old business. In some ways it is far easier to book a great last minute vacation and there is usually much more choice, than of late. Global recession has impacted on vacation deals but there are still some available. Follow a few golden rules, in order to secure the best deal. After all if your accommodation is dire, and the resort sucks, it is not really a deal no matter how cheap the vacation was.

Golden rules

Research

With the Internet, and teletext offering vacation bargains on our television screens, there is just so much choice. If you see a deal that seems to good to be true, remember that it probably is. When you have found an offer that has the right destination, resort, accommodation, flights, and everything else you desire, check out if it is available through another travel agent. Often, even though the deal may sound great, there could be a vacation for you.

Price

Have a budget in mind and try to stick to it. Make sure that you have included the cost of any extras, such as airport taxis, extra taxes, eating out, travel, water, medication and emergencies.

Set your standard

When we are young most of is are prepared to rough it a little. With age most people like a few comforts, even whilst on vacation. Decide what sort of accommodation you would prefer, before you start to shop around. Do you want to stay in a hotel or a small guest house? What is the minimum rating that you will accept for the accommodation. Three star, four star or basic, the choice is yours.

Independent opinion

Make sure that you read a good cross section of consumer reviews, about your proposed accommodation and resort, before you book. However, you will need to bear in mind that such reviews can be subjective, and you may not wholeheartedly agree in reality. However, as a guideline they should supply the basic pros and cons.

Flexibility

Be as flexible as possible about the dates, means of travel and more inconsequential details. This may enable you to get the best deal.

Ask for the best price

Sometimes if you are looking to book a very last minute deal you can get a rock bottom price. It may be as simple as, once you have been offered a particular vacation deal, asking if there is any discount for cash or if it is 'their best price'. This can occasionally generate a further price reduction.

Do not sell yourself short

Do not settle for second best, unless you are really happy to do so. It does not matter how good a deal your last minute vacation is, if you do not enjoy it and cannot wait to return home. You should really be looking for the best price for the holiday you want.

Go it alone

These days it is sometimes possible to have a better value vacation if you do not book a package deal, but book everything individually. This way you should be able to custom make a great holiday deal and buy the best value travel tickets, accommodation, meals and more.

Conclusion

Of course, it will depend what time of year you are looking to book your vacation, as to what is available. Obviously during the school holidays most of the family orientated vacations will all be booked up well in advance. However, there will always be some cancellations available. Keep looking on a regular basis and at regular intervals. This way you should be able to bag a bargain. Consider also signing up for email notification of last minute vacation deals, in order to beat the rush.

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