Travel Expos are hands down the best place to book and plan your upcoming trips. No matter where you plan to go, how long for, whether you are cruising, backpacking or booking a family vacation you can save a fortune. Filled with discounts, special offers, competitions, knowledgeable staff from all the big tour companies as well as travel agents who are happy to answer your questions, travel expos are where I am able to really save some money and put my plans in place.
Last year, I attended the annual Travel Expo as it coincided perfectly with my plans to travel around the world. Expos offer a variety of discounts if you book within the week, early bird discounts, multiple tour discounts, flight discounts and discounts on travel insurance. I was able to book six tours, which were spread across different continents and the duration I would be traveling.
I had huge success last year and saved approximately $1000 on tours and travel insurance. So, as I’m currently planning my travel over the next year or so through South America, of course I’m saving and booking at this year’s expo.
I am looking to book a tour at the start of my trip. I have never been to South America before and find group tours are a great way to get into the rhythm of traveling, meet fellow travelers, get a feel for the region and just start on a high, setting the tone for the rest of my travels. I like finding tours that visit areas I would otherwise not travel to myself, or go through areas that may be a little sketchy for a woman traveling alone. I’m also looking at doing a cruise through the Galapagos Islands, as it seems the best way to experience this beautiful region.
So at today’s Travel Expo my amazing travel agent Chevonne from Cruise About, who has booked adventures for me for the past six years, went through the tours she felt would be most suited to my plan and the available discounts.
Almost all tour companies had great discounts at this year’s expo. I’m looking at doing a Northern Andes tour with Tucan Travel in May, and this year a 25% Travel Expo discount was offered.
Standard price: $1257.15AUD + $300USD local payment
25% Travel Expo discount price: $942.87AUD + $300USD local payment
Saving: $314.28
Additionally I’m thinking of doing a Galapagos Islands cruise, also in May, with Geckos Adventures who are offering a 20% Travel Expo discount.
Standard price: $1930AUD + park fees
20% Travel Expo discount price:$1544AUD + park fees
Saving: $386
Total saving: $700.28 and entry into Travel Expo was free!
I will also book travel insurance at the same time as booking the tours, ensuring I’m covered for anything that may happen before departure as well as whilst traveling. CoverMore Travel Insurance offer a 10% expo discount.
Luckily for me Travel Expo is here in Adelaide in February each year and that’s perfect timing for my bookings. But another great thing about expos is often you don’t actually need to attend! The majority of travel agencies will know what discounts are available the Friday before a weekend event.
So find an expo, save yourself some money and get packing!
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