The US Tour Operators Association says planning vacations on your own can save 30% or even more.
“According to an informal member survey, travelers can save an average 20- 30% during high season by buying a vacation package or tour, over making the same arrangements on their own,†the association says.
The survey found that travelers can save an average 30% on land/sea vacations, and 20% on air-inclusive packages versus planning the same trip on their own.
“Depending on the destination, travel in low season nets an additional 20% savings, with savings sometimes up to 40% for areas like Mexico and the Caribbean,†says the tour association.
Depending on destination and complexity of the trip, overall savings on land packages and tours can range anywhere from 5% to 50% and from 10% – 35% on air-inclusive trips. Savings are based on a typical one week package during high season at rack rates.
Savings have remained constant over the last three years
“In 2005 we reported an average 30% savings across the board. While savings on land and cruise packages and tours have remained constant, given the increase in fuel prices and air fares, savings on air-inclusive tours and packages today are slightly less, averaging 20%,†said Bob Whitley, USTOA president. He added:
“The previous survey, conducted in 1998, revealed a savings of 15% – 20% by buying a package or tour, so tour operators have been able to hold the line.â€
The survey also revealed that for travelers with limited time, booking a one-week air-inclusive, escorted tour saves an average 9 hours of planning time and an average of 16 transactions.
Report by David Wilkening
