It's been estimated that Vacation Packages are a $61 Billion dollar market that is increasing annually. Every year more and more people are opting to purchase their vacations and hotels online. The number of websites selling and promoting travel products is immense and new sites are added daily.

With all of these websites claiming to have the lowest fares, the cheapest hotel rooms and the best vacation package prices, it's easy for the consumer to become confused and disheartened.We've all spent hours online checking website after website, copying down prices and weighing one site against the other while trying to find the best price on a family vacation or weekend getaway. However, a few days of this aimless searching can become disconcerting and finding the perfect vacation becomes much more of an effort than it should be.Everyone knows that half the fun of a vacation is the planning and anticipation. Here are my general rules for buying travel products online.

They can make your next online travel purchase more enjoyable, regardless of where or how you intend to purchase your vacation package.Rule #1.Understand that the published "low price" advertised on your favorite site, may entail flights that originate from locations other than your own, or they might be scheduled at odd times and not suitable to your travel plans.

It's also possible that the included hotel may not be in the location you would prefer. You'll have to pay more to stay on the beach or next to the airport. And be aware that the included car might not be large enough for your family and your luggage together.Rule #2.Realize that the cost of travel products are much the same, no matter which online site you choose. The real cost savings on vacation packages are primarily due to the choices you decide to make.

There can be big price differences on hotels, airfare, and car rentals depending on the specific months and days of the week that you plan to travel. Any additional amenities that you require, such as the cost of ground transportation or entertainment packages, will also affect the price of your vacation package.Rule #3.Remember to plan ahead, be realistic and be flexible. Booking your vacation package well in-advance is still the primary cost-saving measure you can take.

Here are a few other things to remember which can help you keep the cost down. Additionally, try to avoid last-minute travel during holiday weeks or weekends and given the choice, opt for late morning, early afternoon, or evening flights..As with any other product, buy your travel products from an online vendor that you trust.

Look for a site that subscribes to the Better Business Bureau, specifically the BBB Reliability Program. It's an indication that the site has conformed to the BBB membership and reliability standards. The site should be simple to understand and easy to navigate. There should be cancellation links and contact information readily available. Read the "about us" page and become comfortable with their selling philosophy.

Are you ready to begin? Now is the perfect time to create the perfect vacation package. Follow the rules above and find out just how easy it is to build an affordable family vacation or weekend getaway.

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By: Joseph Patrick