Booking for your travels today is a breeze. It can be done online and in the comfort of one’s home. Within a few minutes, you can already print out your tickets. No need to call a travel agent and visit their office.
But this convenience provided by travel operators should not make you dilly-dally on your bookings. It’s important to remember that if you’re planning to go on a holiday, booking for your travel and accommodation needs to be made in advance. This is particularly vital if you’re traveling with your family. Early planning and booking will help you avail of the best deals and find the perfect schedule for you and your family.
Another benefit of advanced planning is that you have the opportunity to search for family activities at your destination and book for tours early as well. You have more time then to pack your things and that of your kids and buy other items you may need to bring along.
For those traveling by plane, you can purchase your tickets several months ahead. Airlines are allowed by law to book flights 330 days or less than 11 months ahead of your schedule although this is not really followed by all companies. This applies for online bookings as well. All major airlines today allow online bookings and they even offer frequent flyer bonus miles to passengers who purchase tickets directly from them instead of via travel agents.
Ways to Know if a Website is Legitimate
How would you know then if the website you’re visiting is legitimate, assuming it is a travel site that offers special deals and not necessarily that of a major airline company?
Most sites require registration. This is often the case to make it fast and easy for people to book trips when they come back to visit.
The payment system needs to be secure. It has to have several options such as paying through PayPal, a major credit card or through direct bank deposit. Reputable online companies normally use an encryption technology that ensures secure payment and checkout.
An online confirmation via email should be sent to your inbox after purchasing your ticket or paying for your hotel, rental car and tours. The email should state all the details including the specific fees charged to you.
Apart from the confirmation email, the website should also be able to provide you with your e-ticket or copy of your itinerary immediately after payment. This should be printable from that web page.
Yes, it can be quick to book for travels these days but it makes a big difference if you know where to do it online. Expedia is one site you can visit for booking travels in Australia and the rest of the world.
So remember these tips and you can be sure to enjoy good deals and save money moving onwards.
Photo via sparksheet.com
About the author:
Teresa
is a home-based writer who loves traveling with her family.
Originally posted on January 17, 2013 @ 1:35 pm
