Finding Flights for the Whole Crew: Tips for Booking Group Travel
Finding Flights for the Whole Crew: Tips for Booking Group Travel - Look for Package Deals
When booking flights for a group, it's worth exploring package deals that bundle airfare, hotel accommodations, and even rental cars. These all-in-one packages can often provide significant savings compared to booking each component separately.
Many major airlines and online travel agencies offer package deals that allow you to customize the trip to your group's needs. For example, you may be able to find a package that includes roundtrip flights for four people along with a 3-night hotel stay at a 4-star property in your desired destination. These packages frequently offer discounted rates on the individual components, making it a cost-effective option for group travel.
In addition to airline and OTA packages, third-party sites like Priceline and Expedia also have robust package deal offerings. They allow you to mix and match flights, hotels, and cars to create a personalized itinerary at an bundled price. This flexibility is particularly useful when you're booking for a larger group with varied preferences and needs.
When evaluating package deals, be sure to compare the total cost to booking each item separately. Sometimes the bundled price is higher, so it's important to do the math. Additionally, pay close attention to the included amenities and restrictions, such as non-refundable bookings or blackout dates. Careful consideration of the package details can help ensure you're getting the best value for your group.
Another tip is to be flexible with your travel dates if possible. Package deals often have more availability and better rates for trips during shoulder or off-peak seasons. Adjusting your dates by even a day or two can lead to significant savings.
What else is in this post?
- Finding Flights for the Whole Crew: Tips for Booking Group Travel - Look for Package Deals
- Finding Flights for the Whole Crew: Tips for Booking Group Travel - Consider a Travel Agent
- Finding Flights for the Whole Crew: Tips for Booking Group Travel - Research Group Airfare Discounts
Finding Flights for the Whole Crew: Tips for Booking Group Travel - Consider a Travel Agent
Consider a Travel Agent
For larger groups or more complex itineraries, working with a travel agent can be a smart move. Agents have access to additional inventory and bundled rates that you may not find online. And they can leverage relationships with hotels, tour operators, and vendors to secure amenities like complimentary breakfasts or spa credits. An agent becomes your advocate, acting as the single point of contact to finalize details and troubleshoot issues. This saves you time otherwise spent planning logistics or managing vendor communications.
Finding Flights for the Whole Crew: Tips for Booking Group Travel - Research Group Airfare Discounts
When booking travel for a group, take time to research discounts and deals that can maximize your savings. Many airlines and travel providers offer reduced group rates, but you have to dig a little to uncover them.
Start by checking airline websites directly. Most have a group travel portal that outlines fare discounts, waived fees, and other perks for booking multiple travelers. For example, Delta offers group discounts starting at just 10 passengers on many routes. Their group booking tool lets you estimate group pricing before confirming reservations. American Airlines also provides group discounts and benefits like waived baggage fees when booking 10+ tickets.
Beyond airline sites, OTAs like Expedia offer group travel rates that bundle discounted airfare with hotel, car, and activity reservations. You can find additional savings by signing up for their group travel newsletters which advertise seasonal deals and flash sales.
Another option is to work with a group travel agent. Agents have access to unadvertised group fares and can bundle components in ways that maximize savings. They also provide a single point of contact when booking complicated group itineraries.
Additionally, don’t forget to check rates across different airports in a region. You may find better pricing or group discounts by flying into alternate hubs. Flexibility with dates can also lead to group fare deals, even shifting travel by a day or two.
Finally, once you’ve booked, recheck rates leading up to departure. If airfare drops, you can often get a credit for the difference by contacting the airline group desk. Be sure to provide your group confirmation code when requesting a fare adjustment.