Best Price or Best Deal

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I understand being on a budget, I really do.  I have been on a budget my entire life.  I get it.  But all too often as a travel agent, my clients are too concerned with the price of the vacation rather than the overall experience.  What do I mean by that?  Well, let’s look at stateroom categories for an example. 

 

Yes, the inside cabin is cheaper; however, many cruise lines will offer perks for the upgraded stateroom that are not included for the inside cabins.   Cruise lines will include drink packages, internet service, spa treatments, on board credits, and specialty dining for the upgraded staterooms.  If you are planning on purchasing any of these services, it just might be a better deal to select the upgraded stateroom.  It will cost you more up front but will save money in the long run.  Be open to these offers when your travel agent brings them to your attention.  In the long run, it will save you money.

 

Tour companies will do similar offers.  The cost of the tour might be higher but look closely at what is included.  Often they include some of your meals, transportation, discounted air fare, as well as some guided tours that let you skip the lines at major attractions.  Unless you want a completely escorted tour they also allow for time to explore on your own.  Not interested in a tour at all?  That’s okay, too.  You can get completely independent tours that are packaged together that will include some of the same perks listed above.  Don’t be fooled by the low price. 

 

Now, if you are a no frills kind of traveler and you don’t plan on using any of the perks being offered, then by all means stick with the cheapest fare.  Just don’t sell yourself short by not considering what you will actually be spending your money on.  If an included perk helps your bottom line, shouldn’t you consider it?