Planning a holiday is equal parts fun and stressful. You’re looking forward to getting away from it all, but you want to make sure you get the best deal. Finding good accommodations, choosing flights that get you there in good time without tight connections, and hiring a car are all things you have on your mind when you’re arranging a trip. Wouldn’t it be nice if you could do all that in one place? Or, even better, have someone handle the job for you? Read on for a list of travel agents and travel websites that help Australians find a good deal on their getaways.
Travel Packages vs. DIY Holidays
Travel agents used to be incredibly popular because they’d do the difficult work of researching destinations and making arrangements for you. The rise of the internet reduced the use of travel agents by making it easier for people to book their own trips. However, some people still enjoy the convenience of having someone else handle the details for you.
Making your own DIY holiday plans can give you more flexibility and is sometimes cheaper. However, travel agents have good connections and may be able to access attractive discounts.
The Best Websites for Holiday Planning
Australian holidaymakers have a lot of websites to choose from when it comes to booking their holidays. Read on for a list of 10 of the best options, including both travel agent-style offerings and more general booking websites. This list includes accommodation and flight-focused sites, experience-planning companies and companies offering cruises and package holidays. There’s something for families, young couples and groups planning a spring break or hen party. Check several sites before booking a holiday to get the best deals.
1. Adrenaline.com.au
Adrenaline.com.au is aimed at thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies looking for adventure holidays. It offers a variety of affordable packages, including flying, driving, water sports and other activities. These experience packages all take place in Australia. Some are day-trips, and some are slightly longer holidays. There are packages to suit all budgets and age-groups, and you have the option of purchasing gift certificates for experiences, too. If you’re looking for something that’s a little different from the average spa or city break, Adrenaline.com.au is the obvious choice.1
2. Inspiring Journeys
Inspiring Journeys is another site that focuses on travel within Australia and New Zealand. It offers group tours, but unlike travel agencies that run large, impersonal tours, Inspiring Journeys provides a more personal approach with options for small groups. Trips range from 5 days up to 2 weeks in duration, taking holidaymakers around some of the most inspiring and beautiful sites the countries have to offer. Some tours require a high level of fitness, and others are suitable for families with older children. Inspiring Journeys handles every aspect of the trip for you, so all you have to do is enjoy the atmosphere.2
3. Jet Abroad
If you’d rather head abroad for your holiday, Jet Abroad offers an easy way to build an affordable holiday experience. This travel site lets users find cheap flights and hotel accommodations for international holidays. The support team is based in Sydney, so you can feel confident you’ll get top-quality support in your time zone. Jet Abroad works with a variety of airlines, making it easy to arrange trips to and from any destination for a reasonable price.3
4. Viator
Viator is owned by Tripadvisor, and its pedigree shows. This travel app and website helps users find good deals on travel experiences. It offers a wide selection of destinations, tours and attractions to choose from. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next holiday, Viator can help you find something you might not otherwise have thought of. The app makes it easy to book tickets for tours, shows and experiences. It’s designed for people with busy lifestyles, and most bookings offer free cancelation up to 24 hours in advance, too.4
5. Wotif
Another useful site for general travel bookings is Wotif.com. This site is a one-stop shop for flights, accommodations, experiences, and cruises. Users can make their own travel arrangements or choose from a variety of package holidays. The site lists a range of airlines and accommodation providers to help users find the best prices. Site members get access to special discounts, and there’s a regularly updated section of special deals to browse, so if you’re feeling adventurous and can be flexible about your plans you could find some interesting and affordable destinations.5
6. Webjet
Find great deals on everything from flights and accommodation to travel insurance, caravans, and car hire with Webjet. Whether you’re looking to book your own trip or are seeking a package deal, this travel site has options for you. The deal highlights section shows some of the best discounts available. The site covers 730,000 hotels worldwide and a long list of airlines, so wherever you want to go, you should be able to find a deal. No booking fees are charged on package holidays, and customer service is available 24/7.6
7. Stayz
Stayz is an accommodation-focused site that helps people find the perfect place to stay. In addition to the usual filters for dates and destinations, users can look for places that are pet-friendly, close to the beach or equipped with a swimming pool. The site is easy to use, and many of the properties listed on it offer free cancellation. With accommodation providers all over the world to choose from, you can find your perfect romantic getaway or spring break condo with just a few clicks of the mouse.7
8. Mantra
Mantra has hotels, resorts, and apartments all over Australia and New Zealand. While the company doesn’t sell full package holidays, it does offer all-inclusive resorts, so the only thing left to take care of is travel. Those who prefer a quieter and more personal experience can opt for an apartment over a more traditional hotel. Mantra caters to families, wedding parties and business travelers. In addition to traditional holiday bookings, it offers long-stay options. A generous rewards program means frequent visitors can earn significant discounts on future stays.8
9. Experience Oz
This Australian-owned and operated company offers experience holidays and tours of some of the most exciting locations in Australia. Experience Oz charges no booking fees and takes Paypal in addition to popular credit or debit cards. Holiday options include theme parks, cruises and wildlife watching trips. All you have to do is pick out your dream destination and make some time to enjoy the best Australia has to offer.9
10. Virgin Australia
Virgin Australia is the Australian arm of the well-known Virgin airline. While flights are its specialty, it also offers hotel bookings and car hire options, giving people the opportunity to arrange their holidays all in one easy interface and at a fair price. Virgin charges no booking fees, and it provides a lot of information about travel restrictions and entry requirements, so would-be holidaymakers know where they stand when it comes to their travel plans. If you feel more comfortable booking with a well-known brand, choosing Virgin makes a lot of sense.10