package tours advantages disadvantages

10 Advantages And Disadvantages of Package Tours and Holidays

Published by roslin dwivedi on april 29, 2023 april 29, 2023.

Last Updated on November 8, 2023 by Roslin Dwivedi

Package tours and holidays are a popular way to travel for decades. With a package tour, you can visit multiple destinations, often at a discounted rate, with all the logistics taken care of for you.

The advantages of package tours and holidays offer convenience, stress-free and cost-saving trips.

They usually include transportation, accommodation, and other services at one price, which can be significantly cheaper than booking each part separately.

Another advantage of package tours is that they also provide access to some popular attractions which are not easy to book for a single person. The disadvantages of package tours are that you may not have as much flexibility or freedom as you would if you made your arrangements.

Once upon a time, we went on a tour of Jungfraujoch . We had booked online for our family of 2 adults and a baby. Upon reaching the destination. Not the train journeys, the main destination where you get to go to the museum and also to the top of Europe, the mountain of Jungfraujoch . What annoyed us was the Indian tour guides treating the Indian tourists like goats. The moment the elevator opened to go up, the guide did not let the people come out of it and yelled at his tourists, “Go go go, run inside, fast-fast.” This scene made us feel bad for those who were unknowingly portraying to the world over there that Indians don’t have etiquette.

Anyways, that was a small example of a package tour. As a large tour group, you may not experience the destination as much as if you went alone. Also, some package tours can be inflexible and may not let you make changes or cancellations if your plans change or in case of an emergency.

In this article, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of package tours and holidays so you can make a firm decision before your next trip.

people walking on narrow street between residential buildings

10 Advantages and disadvantages of Package tours and holidays

Advantages of package tours and holidays, 1. cost –.

Package tours are money-saving. One of the advantages of package tours and holidays is the cost savings. By booking all your travel arrangements, such as transportation and accommodation, as a package deal, you may get a better rate than booking each component separately. Tour companies often have negotiated rates with hotels, airlines, and other providers, which they pass on to their customers. This means you can enjoy an affordable vacation that you would be able to arrange on your own. A cheap tour package offers hotel stays in a 4-star hotel, which can be expensive if you book it separately. They provide airport transfers and drops and also cover all the famous tourist destinations. But if you arrange your accommodation and travel separately, your trip may become expensive.

2. Convenience –

You don’t have to worry about booking yourself flights, good accommodations or activities on a package tour. Everything is pre-arranged and incredibly convenient for you.

So you don’t have to worry about travel arrangements and unexpected changes on your itinerary. You can sit relaxed, knowing that everything has been taken care of.

But if you book it separately, you will have to do plenty of Google searches, look for cheap flight deals, inexpensive hotels, probably not a 4-star, book a rental car for the trip, get an international driving license etc.

3. Variety –

On package tours and holidays, you will have the chance to visit multiple locations in one trip.

This is great for the people who like to explore more in a short amount of time.

You can enjoy the convenience of having everything planned out for you, while experiencing a variety of different places

Since package tours cover multiple destinations in one day. They often start early in the morning and finish close to the evening. Which may be very tiring for families with elderly and small kids. They can’t just keep exploring continuously. Whereas when you plan alone for your family, you rent a car and you decide on your trip according to your parents and kid’s convenience. This is a happy experience for everyone in the family other than the fact that you covered many areas of the town in one day.

4. Stress-free –

All the hard work of research, planning and booking is done for you on a package holiday, so you can relax and enjoy the journey. Planning a trip can be stressful, especially if you are unfamiliar with the destination. With a package tour, all the hard work is done for you. You don’t have to spend hours researching accommodation options or trying to find the best deals on flights. Everything is pre-arranged, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy your vacation.

When you are making the vacation plan yourself, you will have to do all the research yourself. Read multiple Google and Trip Advisor reviews for the best place to stay on your budget and tours and hidden gems if any.

5. Connections –

Package tours often offer exclusive access to certain attractions, activities and events that you wouldn’t be able to get to on your own. Many package tours offer exclusive access to certain attractions, activities, and events that you wouldn’t be able to get to on your own. For example, you may be able to skip the lines at popular attractions or gain access to exclusive tours that aren’t available to the general public. This can add an extra level of excitement and exclusivity to your trip.

Disadvantages of Package Tours and Holidays

1. limited freedom – .

You may not have much control over the itinerary, and you may be restricted to the set times for activities. One of the biggest disadvantages of package tours is the limited freedom. You may not have as much control over the itinerary as you would if you planned the trip yourself. The tour company sets schedules and activities that you need to follow, which can limit your ability to explore the destination on your terms. You may also have limited free time to do your activities, which can be frustrating for some travellers.

The package tour itinerary is not as comforting. They have set days for set activities, in case you are not well on a certain day, they won’t refund you the money nor they change the activity date because they have everything lined up as prior decided.

2. Quality of accommodation –

Another disadvantage of package tours is the quality of accommodation. While some package tours offer high-quality accommodation options, others may provide lower-quality accommodations to keep costs down. This is disappointing if you were expecting a certain level of comfort or amenities. It is based on the package you chose. Do check all the stays, transfers and activities in detail properly before you confirm.

3. Limited flexibility –

You may not have the chance to stay longer in one place or take detours if you want to. Package tours are often inflexible. This can be frustrating if you want to explore a particular area in detail or if you want to change your plans on the fly. Additionally, some package tours may have strict cancellation policies, which makes it difficult to change your itinerary.

From our past travels, I have noticed that group tours are bound to a specific time limit for a place. For instance, if you want to spend more time at a palace or a palace garden, you can’t do that freely. Because you have to join the group in one hour or less. Me and my husband were left behind because we couldn’t make it to the bus on time and they left us. After we called them they told us to get into another tourist bus and they caught us later at another attraction in Dubai.

4. Limited options –

With some package tours, you may not get the chance to choose activities or meals. Once, I was checking for a holiday package for Mauritius, but the provider did not include any activities in the package. The holiday package only had hotels, transfers and basic city tours. If I wanted to add something, I had to pay extra charges. So I dropped the idea of booking with a packaged holiday maker and planned our itinerary.

5. Unpredictable weather –

Your holiday may be affected by unpredictable weather. And you may not change your plans if needed.

Final words

Whether you go with package tours and holidays or make your travel plans, there will always be advantages and disadvantages of package tours and holidays that will make you think twice. In this article, I have tried to simplify your queries. I hope these comparisons will help you plan your vacation with ease.

Roslin Dwivedi

Hi! I am Roslin, a travel blogger. I am a gastronomist, an excursionist and love to learn about a different culture. Apart from travel updates, you will find some aha moments and life learnings in my blog. My writing recipe includes a little bit of humour only to see you smiling. You can find me on my website, Facebook and Instagram as Travelnlifewithroaz.

Vibrant Experiences · January 31, 2024 at 9:51 am

Hey Travel Enthusiasts! At Vibrant Experiences, we believe every journey is a story waiting to be told. We get that package tours have pros and cons, but the magic lies in finding the perfect balance. Our curated packages ensure hassle-free adventures, leaving you free to soak in every moment. Explore the world with us – where memories meet vibrant experiences!

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Package Tours: Pros & Cons

Most fresh-faced travellers find themselves with a very difficult question: should I book a package tour or not? Even seasoned travellers have to ask themselves this from time to time. Is it better if someone else is responsible for your trip? It really comes down to personal taste and your preferred style of travel. Package tours definitely come with plenty of benefits, however, there are just as many negatives. So let’s analyze some of them, shall we?

Table of Contents

What is a Package Tour?

Many tour agencies across the world offer all-inclusive tours through various destinations across a country for a set number of days. Every step of your adventure is arranged beforehand, including every form of transport, every hotel/hostel and even a few of the best activities and outings.

These packages can range anywhere from a couple of days to a couple of months and can cover the entire spectrum of travel! From leisurely trips in luxury hotels to camping in the wilderness with nomadic tribes, there’s so much to choose from!

Packages tours can be incredibly advantageous, particularly if you’re new to travelling. They’re also perfect for those who want little to worry about or just aren’t comfortable with arranging everything for themselves. Even for seasoned travellers, this can be a relief from time to time.

Don’t Have to Plan Anything

Without a doubt, the most stressful aspect of travelling is arranging everything. Booking tickets, finding hostels, picking out the right tours, it can be quite a daunting task. With package tours, every single step of your trip is arranged for you before you’ve even arrived. You don’t have to figure out how to buy tickets or stress out trying to pick the right accommodation. You don’t have to do anything!

Tour companies have a wide selection of packages which vary in the destinations they pass through and the length of time. You just need to find the right package for you, and they do the rest. Many companies might even alter their packages slightly to suit your needs.

Find out whether you should plan or not by reading Which is the Best Way To Travel: Plan or No Plan .

They’re Practical

Going on from the last point, the beauty of package tours is the ease of it. You’re simply given an itinerary detailing everywhere you’re going and everything you’ll do. All you have to do is turn up where they tell you to! For new or less-confident travellers, this is such a relief and makes travelling accessible to anyone! There’s a reason they’re also popular with the older generation.

While some want to organise every step, others go with the flow, but which is best.

Let’s find out whether you should plan when you travel.

Click here!

There to Support You

As everything is arranged by a tour agency, you have someone to fall back on if a problem occurs. It could be an issue with the hostel or a cancelled bus, you’ll have someone to help find a solution. If you were travelling independently, you could be left stranded. As part of a package tour, it’s the agency’s obligation to sort things out. After all, the lifeblood of tour agencies is their reviews, and they can’t afford a bad one.

Meeting Fellow Travellers

Package tours are also the perfect choice for the social bugs amongst you! The same group of people might travel together for the whole trip or you could just end up running into the same people that travel along the same routes. along the way. Either way, it’s a great way of meeting new people along the road, and an opportunity to share your experience with like-minded people! Unless you’re unlucky enough to be stuck with a group of assholes…which is a possibility.

Hitting all the Highlights

Some people don’t want to explore the obscure corners of a country, some people just want to see all the highlights. Obviously, tour agencies base their tours on what most people want to see and experience. Most are focused on hitting the iconic sites, particularly if time is short. For longer tours, there are plenty of extra treats thrown in along the way. If you have a bucket list of thing’s you want to see when in the country, this kind of tour is the most efficient way of doing it.

Good for a Tight Schedule

We can’t all live our life on the road, most people have too many responsibilities. Thus, most people have very strict time-limits. Luckily, package tours operate on a tightly followed schedule. You just need to find tours that fit your timeframe. There are plenty to choose from as tours can range from a day or two up to a few months! Not only that but you know exactly where you’ll be and when.

An extensive guide on how to travel the best you can by being a volunteer.

save money, extend your trip and enrich your experience.

Exploring the Unknown

If you wanted to travel through Australia, Japan or Western Europe, it would pretty easy to arrange everything for yourself. However, if you wanted to explore Central Mongolia or the Amazon rainforest, not so much. For some places, package tours are almost a necessity. Even seasoned travellers would struggle with trying to arrange these things for themselves, and often times you’d need the help of a local to achieve it. With these types of tours not only do you have someone that can help you arrange it but also there every step of the way to be your guide as you explore.

Disadvantages

Most seasoned travellers find plenty of disadvantages to this sort of travelling. Backpackers will especially stay away from these tours as they tend to be incredibly limiting, constraining and not worth blowing an entire years travel budget on.

Package tours are ridiculously overpriced! They cost so much more than arranging the trip yourself. Even if you booked the exact same things, the tour agencies need to make money somehow, so they add a little extra on top. You’re only paying for some practicality.

The differences in price can be extraordinary. Where you could be sending a couple of hundreds you end up spending a couple of thousand! Some of the hostels or activities the agencies pick probably won’t be the cheapest option out there, so you’ll spend more than you actually need to.

Take this example. A month-long package tour across Japan can cost almost £6,000, where I spent around £1,200 over 3 months. This is one of the biggest reasons long-term backpackers avoid these tours.

Find out how I travelled through Japan for 3 months for £1200 by reading in The Ultimate Travel Plan: Japan on £15 a Day .

You Don’t Get to Choose

As an independent traveller, you can choose exactly where you want to go, how to get there and how long for. You lose this luxury with package tours. You might be able to edit some of the details of your trip, but overall it’s the tour agency that chooses the venues. There are just some things on the itinerary you won’t be able to change, or if you can, you might have to pay for it. This is one way the cost is affected, as they might pick a more expensive option.

Many travellers face a tough decision; should you travel as a group or travel solo?

It’s a big decision, so here are the pros and cons!

This is an enormous problem for many travellers. Once you’ve made your choice, you’re stuck with it. You may be able to adjust a few minor details of your trip while you’re on it, but generally, Your plans and schedule are already set, and they can’t be changed. You can’t suddenly go somewhere you hadn’t planned for! What happens if you meet a group of awesome people that are heading somewhere you’re not, tough, you can’t join them.

Not to mention you’d have to go through with the tour until the end, or you would have wasted all your money. You might find a couple of days into your journey that you made a big mistake, but tough titties, you’ve got no choice now.

Doing Everything as a Group

If you’re hoping for a unique independent adventure, this isn’t the option for you. Unless you’re willing to pay many thousands, every step of your journey is going to be shared with a group of people that you don’t know. Every transport, every tour and even every room if you’re staying in hostels, you’ll be sharing the experience with someone. Maybe that’s what you prefer, but sometimes you wish you could have a bit of alone time.

If you don’t want to be stuck with a group, then check out A Guide to Solo Travel: Pros and Cons .

No Stepping Outside the Box

This isn’t true for every package, as there are plenty of adventure tours out there, though they are seriously outnumbered! Generally speaking, package tours are more focused on the basic and comfortable aspects of travel. Tours typically cater to all age groups and offer the safer vanilla option that everyone would be happy with. Grandad rather stay in a cosy hotel than having to spend the night in a tent on the edge of a mountain.

It really is a hard choice that all travellers have to make, and there’s no right or wrong answer. It generally boils down to the type of traveller that you are. Backpackers prefer independence, lack of restrictions and the cheaper option. Thus, package tours just aren’t for them. For less-confident or newer travellers, families, or those that want nothing to worry about their journey, package tours are worth considering!

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The Pros And Cons Of Package Tours: What Solo Travelers Should Know

As an independent traveler I have tended to steer clear of organized tours – think early departures, delayed by Susie’s last-minute packing (not to mention the tiny bottles she swiped from the plane and has been sipping since Sunday)…

No thanks. I’d rather go it alone or with a chosen travel partner or two. But surely there are both pros and cons of package tours?

Tourists crowding around the Mona Lisa in the Louvre Museum, Paris

I was recently invited on an organized tour. I said No because of a scheduling conflict but in truth, I was relieved. The thought of cramming myself into a bus with a bunch of people I didn’t know was scary.

But it got me thinking : Why the reticence? Have I been shortchanging guided travel tours? After all, how can I judge something I don’t know?

So I decided to investigate. I read what I could, and I talked to women who love tours and women who dislike them intensely.

Here’s what I found out about the pros and cons of package tours. And it surprised me.

DISCOVERY #1 : THERE ARE DEFINITELY ADVANTAGES OF TOUR PACKAGES.

Many traveling women seem to enjoy organized tours so I asked a few of them why – and they had good reasons.

You don’t have to lift a finger. Someone else will do your homework for you – booking the hotels, restaurants, transport from the airport and between cities, everything but the tips. You’ve just got to show up .
Everything is planned (even predictable). You’ll have a schedule and an itinerary, which means you’ll be able to plan around it, in case you want to try a famous restaurant, or see some friends, for example.
Your questions will be answered. Most package holidays have local guides so you’ll be able to ask about this unusual headdress or that traditional building. Often, guides are experts in a particular aspect of your destination, and may know out-of-the-way gems you would never have found on your own.
You’ll have instant travel companions , in case you’re not in the mood or ready to be on your own (although reading through this section on solo travel might help)
Someone else will take care of the ‘ language issue ‘ for you, if you’re not a linguist.
Things can often be cheaper : travel agencies and outfitters buy in bulk and can pass on those savings to their customers.
You’ll see more, and that’s a fact, especially if your time is limited . With things organized for you, you won’t waste valuable travel time searching for a room, getting lost, or figuring out public transport.
There’s safety in numbers , and even if you do run into a little trouble, your guide will make sure you’re well taken care of. In some parts of the world, being a female traveler means you’ll hardly get to see anything because the culture won’t allow it; a tour will help you get around some of these constraints.
No decisions . If you have a high-powered or stressful job, you might welcome having everything taken care of for you for a few days or weeks.
In some countries, tour packages might be the only way to get to certain places, short of chartering a boat or other unlikely event.
And if you’re a novice traveler, a group may make you feel less anxious about stepping out into a new country.

organized tours still allow you flexibility - like this isolated area of Sri Lanka

DISCOVERY #2 : THE DISADVANTAGES OF PACKAGED TOURS ARE EQUALLY OBVIOUS.

It’s not all rosy and plenty can go wrong when you’re in a group, rubbing elbows with people you’ve never seen before.

You may have to spend time with people you don’t like. Or who don’t like you. What if you have nothing in common – they drink late into the night and you’re out jogging by 6am even on holiday?
Your punctualities may not match. What if they delay the bus with their shopping while you’re excruciatingly on time , seated five minutes ahead of schedule?
You can feel a bit rushed as you’re whisked from A to B to C with no time to sit and soak in a locale. This type of travel can become superficial.
If the tour is too large your visiting time will be reduced by things like gathering everyone on time, getting on the bus, getting off the bus…
Your tour guide might not be as good as she should be – you might have been better off just reading your guidebook.
You’re stuck with your itinerary . You might want to go to a museum at the time a major walk is scheduled but there may be little flexibility built into the schedule.
You’re also stuck (and this is a big one for me) with the food. Although some groups will cater to your food choices , alternatives might not be satisfactory. And after the fifth ‘typical’ dish you might be desperately wishing for a pizza!
You might feel cheated if there are activities you don’t enjoy , a bit like I feel when I eat a meal with friends who drink (I don’t) and the bill is split equally.
You may be visiting too many shops and not enough real sights.
Tours can be tiring ; sometimes agencies cram them with every possible destination to make sure you get your money’s worth.
Your chances of meeting local people are small, as you’ll be gazing at them through a window or rushing past them to keep up with the guide.

Package tours can take you to off-the-beaten-path places - here, northern Senegal

DISCOVERY #3 : THE PROS AND CONS OF PACKAGE TOURS BOIL DOWN TO ONE THING.

It’s this: how well you choose your tour operator.

It’s the most boring piece of advice but… do your homework! If you have a recommendation from friends, that’s great, you’ll be choosing with your eyes open. But if you have no references, your research will be that much more important. Pick a tour and Search online for any reviews or comments about that tour.

Consider these factors before you book:

Size : the smaller the group the more intimate and personal the experience – but the larger the group the bigger the party.
Length of tour : how long can you handle being with a group? (For me, that’s about six hours but I have friends who go on tours for weeks)
Accommodation : quality, and variety – are you in a boring chain hotel every night, or do you alternate between B&B, unusual treehouse hotels and camps, for example?
Food flexibility, especially important if you have allergies or food constraints.
Cost : of course, you want the most for your investment. But are there any hidden costs? Airport taxes? Extra meals? How much are tips? Drinks? Optional excursions? And the dreaded single supplement ? This is where you need to read the fine print.
Type of tour : is it a more adventurous tour, or sedentary, or a mixture?
Refund policy : do you get anything back if you cancel? Under what conditions?
Travel time : if you spend all day driving and two hours at a destination, that’s not travel – it’s transport.
Transportation : how do you get from A to B? If you suffer from motion sickness (as I do) you won’t want to spend hour upon hour on a bus.
Guides : their training, and whether additional local guides – who may know the destination even more intimately – are included.
Activities : are you just seeing or using more of your senses? Going to a performance? Taking a cooking class? Visiting a perfume factory?
Physical activities : check this, because if you’re a slow walker you won’t appreciate a highly physical tour, and vice-versa.
Compatibility : what is the average age? If it’s a 20-year-old party crowd and you’re 60, a week or two might be way too long. What are typical clients like? If they match your demographic, you’ll have a better chance at compatibility.
Shopping : make sure your tour isn’t a disguised shopping expedition. You don’t need to stop at shops with a tour: that’s what ‘free time’ is for.
Speaking of which, make sure there is plenty of free time built into your tour or you’ll be exhausted by the end of the day, not to mention irritable and in a mood to break the bus.
What is included : there’s no point in saving money by going for the cheapest tour only to find out no meals are included. Compare like with like.
The WOW factor , that little extra you can’t define but you’ll feel it when you find the right agency with the right tour.

DISCOVERY #4: THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF TOUR PACKAGES AND THEY DON’T ALL INVOLVE A BUS.

Five tour types are, in my opinion, the exception. I could easily take them and not experience most of the disadvantages of package tours.

These include food walking tours, private organised tours, day tours, solo or single tours and all-women tours.

1. My all-time favorite is the culinary walking tour, which should come as no surprise.

In a food tour a small group of people, usually under a dozen, walk from place to place meeting local chefs, discovering new foods and learning local history. The group dynamic can be fun as tastes and scents are shared and the guide, often a local expert, shares his or her love for the neighborhood and its culinary delights.

On a visit to New York I tried the Tenement Museum’s Lower East Side Food Tour and traveled from Italy to China to Russia and beyond in a few delicious bites. In Istanbul, I experienced the Two Markets Two Continents tour with Istanbul Culinary Walks and ate my way from Europe to Asia and back.

Both tours were fun and I never felt that ‘herding’ feeling so common when a group of people who don’t know one another travel together with a guide.

On the contrary, we were all brought together by our love of food and no one complained about the walking, about the weather, about the guide or about anything else. We knew why we were there and that is often part of the secret: if you have a passion, it’s fun to share it with others. But if you’re just there for the ride, your and others’ boredom will likely show through.

Other great examples of these are the Copenhagen Food Tour , the Porto Food Tour and the Florence Walking Food Tour .

organized tours - eating during my Istanbul food tour

2. I also like the private organised tour – pricier than a package tour but far more flexible.

My first experience was a ten-day road trip through Albania, organized by Albaniantrip and its hugely resourceful manager Elton Caushi. For ten days a young public health professional, Genci Dervishi, drove me around his country. He was well-versed in recent history, with a strong understanding of its developmental challenges, exactly what I was looking for (and of course I made it to all the traditional tourist sites as well). Albanian isn’t an easy language to understand and having Genci along to translate made all the difference in being able to meet local people.

The second private guided tour I tried was a one-week 2000km loop around South Morocco, carefully built by Desert Majesty Tours and its charming manager, Felicity Greenlaw-Weber. In this case, I had not one but two escorts, a driver and a guide, Mohammed and Mohammed, whom I eventually dubbed 1 and 2 after a couple of days of jovial confusion. We divided our time between a 4WD and regular camel rides and explored mountains and deserts.

The vehicle and flexibility made it possible for us to travel on rough tracks across desert areas and into the interior, where we met modern-day nomads who live in caves rather than tents. The language issue was taken care of by our guide and I felt perfectly safe spending the night in several desert camps.

The third was a week in Sri Lanka , when I toured the country prior to spending three weeks at an ayurvedic clinic . I found the driver almost accidentally but this was one of those cases in which the agency got it all wrong – but the driver salvaged the situation. The agency was a fly-by-night outfit located in the Colombo train station with a very official-looking “I” – like the ones used by Information or Tourism Offices worldwide. The tour was utterly cookie-cutter but my driver so flexible he understood immediately what I was looking for and made all the necessary arrangements.

The fourth was in Kyrgyzstan, with CBT , or Community Based Tourism. CBT is a collection of local service providers – who provide overnight stays, meals, courses or glimpses into the culture. A good portion of the money you pay goes to them directly, in other words, straight into the local economy. I have nothing but praise for them, especially given the difficult terrain and language difficulties. They offered me a menu of activities based on my preferences – culture, food, big huge vistas… and I chose various I was keen to try (like building a yurt, for example).

This type of private or customized travel isn’t reserved for the wealthy, by the way, particularly in countries a little further off the tourist path. It does offer a level of freedom and flexibility I wouldn’t have found in a traditional group tour. In most countries, I was able to hire my private tour for around US$100-150 per day.

Moroccan organized tours - goats in an argan tree

3. The day tour is a great alternative to mammoth group tours.

I’m often in a city for a day or two at most , with little time to orient myself. If I know long enough ahead of time, I can do plenty of research and get myself organized to see as much as possible. But sometimes, that’s simply not possible and that’s when I decide a tour for a day or even half a day would at least show me the highlights. Here are the tour operators I use, depending on which tour is the best for my needs:

My first stop is Viator , which probably has the broadest selection of half-day and full-day tours
I also use Get Your Guide , which is great for city day passes and hop-on hop-off bus tickets
If I’m with someone (it sometimes happens!) I’ll use Tours by Locals , because I like having a knowledgeable guide all to myself!

You may have even less time, but you can still get to see the sights. If you happen to be connecting to another flight with a long layover, these airports offer city tours which are organized to get you back to the airport on time for your flight.

4. The solo tour or singles tour is also an alternative.

Now I’m moving out of my comfort zone because I’ve never tried one of these, but I’m told that while they are organized, they tend to be different from the larger package tours.

Solo or singles tours tend to be smaller, often limited to a dozen or so people, which makes them far more flexible than massive groups. Also, since they’re made up of individual travelers, chances are you’ll find greater compatibility since everyone is in the same situation. I will definitely have to try one of these so I can talk about it in greater depth.

5. Finally, the all-women tours.

Again, this isn’t something I’ve ever tried but like the solo tour, these groups tend to be smaller and compatibility far greater, which eliminates some of the bigger problems you face on organized tours.

DISCOVERY #5: NEVER JUDGE A BOOK TOUR BY ITS COVER.

For years I railed against organized tours without knowing enough about them and just agreeing with what I heard. I’ve changed my mind – at least on certain types of tours, like walking or private or small group tours. I still slow travel or solo travel , but I’m no longer dead-set against group travel – if it’s small.

In fact next time someone asks, I won’t ‘automatically’ be busy and if I’m free I’ll give it a try.

— Originally published on 29 March 2014

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Let’s be realistic: booking a holiday can be stressful. There’s a torrent of information on the internet on destinations, flights, accommodation and everything in between. Before you start to plan, there are a thousand questions to ask.

Why book a package holiday?

Why book independently, how do you book your holidays.

How do I get the best deal on flights? Where should I stay? When should I go? And the most important question of all: where should I go?

This is where package holidays came in – and they remain extremely popular.

It’s easy, stress-free and often more secure. If you’re booking a package, you’re likely to have an expert on hand to answer questions before you book, during the process and afterwards. They’ll remind you that you’ll need travel insurance , and take care of any extras like car hire and airport transfers.

Packages can sometimes be cheaper too, as travel agents will occasionally offer vast discounts on last-minute departures.

Package holidays are also a blessing when you’re travelling with children : if the prospect of a holiday with the kids seems daunting at first, a package booking will take the weight off your mind and put the responsibility into someone else’s hands. Then you’re just in charge of remembering all the baby food and in-flight entertainment.

plan-trip-vacation-map-shutterstock_580146556

Freedom. If you don’t mind doing a bit of research – here is a good place to start – then booking independently can be a little more rewarding, and not just in the financial sense.

Not only will you be able to find the cheapest flights at the best time for you, but you’ll also be able to choose from a wider range of accommodation and can work to far more flexible dates.

If you’re a budget traveller, this is the option for you, as package holidays are often focused on a more luxury experience or they’re designed for families.

If you’re travelling alone or in a couple and still want a bit of comfort on the road, you could book an organised tour for when you arrive so you’re not entirely responsible for the itinerary.

Top image © Preto Perola/Shutterstock

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Package Holidays

My goal is to make you a smarter traveler so you can go where you want, as often as they want.

The Pros and Cons of Package Holidays: An In-Depth Analysis

Package holidays have become a popular choice for travelers looking for convenience and affordability. These pre-arranged itineraries often include transportation, lodging, and sometimes even meals and activities. While package holidays have certain advantages, there are both pros and cons that must be considered before making a decision. I’ll do an in-depth analysis of the pros and cons of package vacations so travelers can make informed choices when planning their next vacation.

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Advantages of package holidays:

Convenience:

When it comes to convenience, package holidays truly excel when it comes to providing a hassle-free and seamless travel experience. With package holidays, travelers are freed from the burden of arranging all aspects of their trip individually. Instead, they can rely on the travel agent’s expertise and experience to handle the intricate details.

Package vacations take the guesswork out of planning. Instead of spending countless hours researching destinations, comparing prices and coordinating different bookings, travelers can simply choose from a range of pre-designed packages that fit their preferences and budget. This saves valuable time and energy, allowing individuals to focus on the excitement of their upcoming adventure.

Package holidays provide a one-stop solution for all travel needs. They include not only flights and accommodation, but also transfers, meals, and even guided tours or activities. Travelers can avoid the hassle of finding transportation from the airport to their hotel or finding local transportation options. With package holidays, everything is arranged in advance to ensure a smooth and convenient journey from start to finish.

Another aspect that adds to the convenience of package vacations is the availability of dedicated customer support. A reputable travel agency has a team of experienced professionals ready to assist travelers throughout their journey. Whether it’s resolving accommodation issues, advising on local attractions, or assisting with any unforeseen circumstances, the support team ensures travelers can enjoy their vacation with peace of mind.

Package vacations often come with the added bonus of adding a convenience factor. These include priority entry to attractions, skip-the-line passes, or special discounts on specific events. Travelers don’t need to spend time researching and arranging individually to enjoy these benefits. For individuals or families with busy schedules, package vacations offer a convenient way to make the most of their limited vacation time. By taking care of all the necessary arrangements, travelers can focus on making the most of their trip, rather than getting bogged down in logistics and planning.

The convenience of package holidays lies in the time-saving nature of pre-arranged bookings, the comprehensive range of services, the availability of customer support and the added benefit of simplifying and enhancing the overall travel experience. By entrusting the details to professionals, travelers can truly relax and enjoy their vacation without the stress and hassle of organizing every aspect themselves.

Cost-effectiveness

Package holidays are a smart choice for travelers looking to make the most of their budget. By bundling the various components of a trip together, travel agents can get great rates and pass the savings on to their clients.

Negotiated Rates: Travel agencies have established relationships with airlines, hotels, and other service providers that allow them to negotiate better rates. These negotiated prices are often lower than what individual travelers can get on their own. By taking advantage of these negotiated rates, package holiday providers can offer their customers competitive rates.
Bulk buying: Travel agencies often buy services in bulk, such as a large number of hotel rooms or airline seats. This bulk buying allows them to get discounted prices and pass the savings on to customers. These economies of scale allow package holidays to offer lower prices than booking each component individually.
One-stop pricing: On a package holiday, travelers pay only one price that covers all aspects of the trip, including flights, accommodation, transfers, and sometimes even meals and activities. This bundle pricing model often results in savings compared to booking each element individually. Plus, it saves travelers time and effort by eliminating the need to research and compare prices for each component.
Group discounts: Package holidays are usually designed for families or large travel groups. Travel agents can negotiate special group rates with airlines, hotels and attractions for further cost savings. This is especially beneficial for families or groups of friends traveling together as they can enjoy discounted rates that may not be available for individual bookings.
Seasonal deals: Travel agencies regularly offer seasonal promotions and package holiday deals. Prices tend to be more competitive during the off-season or slower travel periods. By booking a package holiday during these times, travelers can take advantage of lower prices for a cost-effective vacation.
Extras: Package vacations often include free extras or value-added benefits. These range from free breakfast or spa treatments to free upgrades or special discounts on activities. These extras improve value for money and help save overall costs during travel.

It’s important to note that while package holidays can often save money, it’s still advisable to compare prices and options to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Factors such as destination, travel dates and personal preferences can affect the overall cost-effectiveness of a package holiday.

Group and Family-friendly

One of the distinct advantages of package holidays is their appeal to groups and families, as they are specifically designed to suit their unique needs and preferences. Here’s an expanded perspective on why package holidays are a great option for groups and families:

Accommodation for larger groups: Package holidays often offer larger accommodation options such as villas, apartments or suites that can comfortably accommodate families or groups of friends. These accommodations offer more space, multiple bedrooms and communal areas, ensuring everyone has their own privacy while enjoying the shared space. This eliminates the hassle of searching for multiple hotel rooms or coordinating separate accommodations, making traveling as a companion easier and more convenient.
Tailor-made activities and entertainment: package holidays understand that groups and families have different interests and different age groups. As such, they often include a variety of activities and entertainment options for different ages and preferences. Whether it’s kids’ clubs, water parks, sports facilities or cultural excursions, package holidays ensure everyone in the group has fun during their stay. This makes it easier to plan and organize events that cater to the interests of the entire group, resulting in a more inclusive and memorable travel experience.
Simplify logistics: Planning a trip for a group or family can be complex and time-consuming. Package holidays simplify logistics by handling arrangements such as transportation, transfers, and itinerary planning. The tour operator handles the details, making sure everyone is transported seamlessly from one place to another, and that the itinerary includes activities and attractions tailored to the group’s preferences and needs. This eases the burden of coordination and planning, allowing group members to relax and enjoy their time together.
Reduced Stress

The stress reduction associated with package vacations is a significant advantage that can greatly enhance the overall vacation experience. Here is a more detailed expansion on how package holidays can reduce stress and provide a more enjoyable and hassle-free travel experience:

Simplify the planning process: Planning a vacation involves many tasks, such as researching destinations, comparing prices, booking accommodation, arranging transportation, and creating itineraries. This can be time-consuming and laborious, especially for individuals with limited experience or knowledge of a particular destination. With package holidays, all of these tasks are simplified and simplified. Travelers can choose from a range of pre-designed packages that fit their preferences, budget and desired activities. This eliminates the need for extensive research and decision-making, saving valuable time and reducing the stress associated with planning every detail.
Expert Guidance: Package holidays are planned by travel agents with in-depth knowledge and expertise in the destinations they offer. They have a thorough knowledge of the best accommodations, attractions and activities, as well as local customs and regulations. This expertise provides invaluable guidance and advice, allowing travelers to make informed decisions without extensive research. A travel agent’s knowledge and experience help ensure travelers have a well-rounded and enjoyable experience, further reducing stress and uncertainty.
Contingency planning: Package holidays often include contingency planning in case of unforeseen circumstances. For example, if a flight is canceled or a hotel is overbooked, the travel agency will be responsible for finding suitable alternatives and managing them. This proactive approach to handling the unexpected helps reduce stress and ensures travelers are well looked after throughout their journey.

Disadvantages of package holidays:

Lack of flexibility:

Lack of flexibility is indeed a significant disadvantage of package holidays, as they usually adhere to a pre-determined itinerary and timetable.

Limited choice of destinations: Package holidays usually focus on popular tourist destinations and well-known attractions. While this may suit many travelers, it limits exploration of lesser-known or less-visited locations. Travelers with special interests or a desire to explore unique destinations may find package holidays limited in the options available to them.
Fixed departure dates: Package holidays are usually offered on specific dates and durations. This may be limited for individuals with limited availability or who prefer to travel during off-season. A lack of flexibility in choosing a departure date can lead to higher prices or crowded destinations during peak travel periods.
Fixed meal times and menus: Some package holidays include meals as part of the package, often with fixed meal times and limited menu options. While this can provide convenience, it may not be suitable for those with specific dietary requirements or those who prefer to independently explore local cuisine. Inflexibility in meal options and meal times can limit the gastronomic experience for travelers who make gastronomic exploration an integral part of their journey.
Inability to pace travel: Package holidays are designed to accommodate a wide range of travelers with varying preferences. However, this means the pace of travel may not be for everyone. Some may prefer a slower and more relaxed travel experience, while others may want to immerse themselves in a variety of activities. The fixed itinerary of a package holiday may not allow for adjustments in travel pacing, which can lead to a feeling of being rushed or missed opportunities to fully enjoy and appreciate the destination.

While package vacations lack flexibility, they do offer convenience and structure for travelers who prefer a more organized approach to their vacations. However, for those looking for more independence, customization, and the freedom to adjust travel plans while on the go, opting for individual booking and planning may be a more appropriate option.

Low authenticity and local immersion:

Limited interaction with locals: Interacting with locals is an integral part of truly experiencing a destination’s culture and lifestyle. However, package holidays may not provide ample opportunity to meaningfully interact with locals. The focus on pre-arranged events and tourist-oriented venues can limit opportunities to connect with locals on a more personal level and gain insight into their traditions, customs and everyday life.
Lack of authentic cultural experiences: Immersion in local culture is often a highlight of travel. However, package holidays may offer a more superficial understanding of a destination’s culture, focusing on surface experiences. Travelers may find themselves participating in staged cultural performances or visiting commercialized attractions that cater primarily to tourists. This creates a sense of falsehood and detracts from the true cultural immersion many travelers seek.
Homogeneous experience: Package holidays are inherently designed to cater to a wide range of travelers with varying preferences and interests. As such, they may offer a standardized experience that caters to the masses while sacrificing the uniqueness and variety of the destination. The focus on efficiency and convenience can sometimes lead to a homogenization of experience, where a place’s local culture and personality can be downplayed or ignored.
Less flexibility for cultural exploration: Cultural exploration often requires flexibility and spontaneity in order to fully immerse yourself in the local environment. However, package holidays often have fixed schedules and time constraints, which can limit opportunities for in-depth cultural exploration. Travelers may not have the freedom to participate in local events, visit community markets, or participate in spontaneous activities that arise during their visit.

While package holidays offer convenience and a structured travel experience, they may not provide the authenticity and local immersion some travelers seek. For those who value a deeper connection to the local culture, independent travel or a smaller, locally-focused travel agency may be a better option. These options offer greater flexibility and personalization, and the opportunity to create a more authentic and immersive travel experience.

Potential for overcrowding:

One of the big downsides of package holidays is that they can get overcrowded, especially in popular tourist destinations.

Crowded attractions: Package holidays usually focus on well-known tourist attractions and landmarks that attract large numbers of tourists. As a result, these stops can become overcrowded, especially during peak tourist season. Long lines, limited access to viewpoints, and difficulty finding a quiet spot can reduce the enjoyment and impact of a visit. The experience can feel rushed and impersonal, with limited opportunities to fully appreciate the beauty and significance of the sights.
Lack of intimacy: Overcrowding can diminish the sense of intimacy and connection that many travelers seek when exploring a destination. The presence of many other visitors can make it challenging to have quiet moments of reflection or to fully immerse yourself in your surroundings. The desire to connect with the essence of a place can be thwarted by the constant presence of other people, resulting in a less personal and meaningful experience.
Limited Serenity and Authenticity: The crowded nature of package holidays can compromise the sense of serenity and authenticity travelers crave. Overcrowding can make it difficult to capture the true essence of a destination, as the atmosphere can feel more chaotic and commercial. Tranquil spaces, off-the-beaten-track discoveries and an intimate encounter with local culture that can be overshadowed by the hustle and bustle of the crowd.
Impact on local communities: Overcrowding caused by package holidays can have negative impacts on local communities and the environment. Popular destinations may struggle to cope with the influx of tourists, straining infrastructure, increasing pollution and increasing pressure on natural and cultural resources. This can compromise the sustainability and well-being of the destination, as well as the satisfaction of local residents and tourists.

It is important to consider these potential challenges when choosing a package holiday, especially in very popular tourist destinations. Travelers who prioritize more private, serene and authentic experiences may find it beneficial to explore other travel options or consider visiting less crowded or alternative destinations.

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Travelers Insurance: Who Took It and What Does It Offer?

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Oh My Janey

Package Tours Versus Independent Travel: Which One is For You?

March 22, 2018

Over the past few years, I get a lot of questions on whether I prefer package tours over DIY traveling. It’s a difficult question to answer, because the answer is always a case to case basis.

Though most of the traveling I share on my blog are independent traveling, my first overseas travel was actually one organized by my parents when I was just 17 years old. Everything was arranged by a travel agency, and my sister and I just had to join tour groups to make sure we wouldn’t get lost in Hong Kong. It was convenient, and for a minor, it was the safest mode of touring.

Since I started organizing my own trip, booking my own flights, and making my own hotel reservations, I enjoyed planning my travels so much that I usually plan everything myself without joining any tours.

But still, I am always careful when answering this question because there are different types of travelers. There are no ideal traveler and no wrong way to travel. There’s just finding what suits your needs and wants as a tourist, or a traveler, if you’d prefer being referred to that way.

So, what really is it? What’s the better way to travel?

Consider getting a package tour

If you’re traveling with your parents and kids..

It’s hard to move around in large groups, especially if some members of your group aren’t into walking. If you’re with your parents or grandparents, joining a tour, private or not, is the best way to ensure that they will enjoy it. Kids have all the energy to explore a city, but if you don’t want any of your younger cousins missing by the end of Day 2, maybe joining a tour is necessary.

If it can make traveling more convenient for you.

It’s understandable if you want your travels to be as comfortable as possible and that can only be achieved through booking the best hotels and choosing package tours over independent travel. When visiting local areas, you’ll probably find it difficult to commute due to the numerous jeepney and tricycle transfers. It’s definitely more convenient if everything has already been laid out instead of worrying how to get from point A to point B once you get there.

Just imagine ignoring all the packages you can easily book beforehand and instead, opting to book a hotel yourself, arranging for the transportation, plotting the itinerary, and only looking for island hopping tours once you get there. You might end up spending more than necessary, not just on money but on time, too. Be it in Puerto Princesa, Coron, or El Nido, there are tons of Palawan packages to choose from , and it’s only up to you to choose one that best suits you.

If it’s cheaper to join a group tour than doing your itinerary.

There are times when the price of a group tour is overwhelming, but when you compute for your overall budget, you’ll be surprised how it can still be cheaper. Groups and agencies organizing tours often get discounts that’s why they can still offer affordable travel packages.

If you want to see more attractions at a shorter period of time.

One of the complaints about package tours is how it tries to fit in too many attractions in a day. But if you’re visiting a place for the first time without knowing when you’ll be back, it’s only understandable that you want see as many sights as you possibly can. Package tours make sure that the best spots are covered. It also follows a schedule so you can visit everything before sunset. I definitely didn’t regret joining a group tour when I went to Baler , because it allowed my friends and I to save more and see everything.

If you’re traveling solo.

I haven’t tried traveling solo, and I plan to. The thought alone is scary, but joining organized tours make it less so since I’ll be joining other travelers and the trip will be organized by experienced folks. Besides, traveling becomes less expensive if you split the bill with someone, but you won’t have anyone when you travel alone. Joining tours can help you cut down the cost.

Some would argue that package tours are not flexible. However, some travel agencies actually allow you to customize the travel package. Also, I believe most package tours allow free time, especially at night, so you can still squeeze in whatever you want to do that the package cannot cover.

Hunting down filming locations in Taipei, Taiwan

Go for independent travel

If you care more about the journey than the destination..

When DIY traveling, you’ll spend a lot of time figuring out how to get from one place to another. You’ll also need to strictly follow bus schedules and arrange for a private transportation when a public one isn’t possible wherever you’re going. There’s a chance that you’ll spend more time on the road, asking for directions and looking at the map, than on the actual destination itself. But if you do not mind getting lost and you enjoy the thrill of finding what you’re looking for, then DIY travel might really be for you.

If you don’t care for touristy places.

Most package tours focus on the most popular attractions of a place, but if you’d rather visit hole-in-the-wall restaurants or obscure galleries, then you can try creating your own itinerary. The top attractions are at the top for a reason, and I try to visit those that really peak my interest. But there are times when my priority isn’t included in the list of most recommended spots and joining a package tour would only make me miss out on what I’d rather do.

If you want to spend more time at a certain place.

Independent traveling allows you to focus your time on the places you want to visit the most. Want to spend an entire afternoon just sitting at an outdoor cafe and soaking in the culture? Want to waste an entire day just walking around with no specific place in mind and not restricted by time? Then that’s possible, too. DIY travels allow you more freedom to whatever you want, even hunting down filming locations of your favorite dramas and movies, which I often do.

If you don’t like traveling in groups.

Private travel tours can be pretty pricey, and majority of the travel packages lump you in with other tourists. You’ll be traveling in groups anywhere you go, and if this doesn’t fly with you, then it’s best to skip package tours.

If you enjoy planning everything yourself.

Organizing your own travel can be stressful and frustrating, especially when you cannot find everything you need online. However, it also has its own perks. I personally enjoy it, and I also like sharing the travel itineraries in the blog. However, I have to admit that it can be pretty challenging if you do it locally, due to the scarcity of information sometimes. But there are tons of guides you can find online, and there are also other travelers and bloggers willing to help you.

Independent traveling can be stressful, especially when you have to do everything by yourself. But it’s exciting and you have more liberty to do the things you actually want.

Final Verdict

It all depends on what you want to accomplish when you travel. Be it DIY traveling or joining group tours, traveling always has something in store for you that no itinerary can ever cover. Before traveling, weigh your options first, study your expenses, and consider the people you’re traveling with. All of these matter when you plan your travels.

I hope this post helped you decide whether to approach a travel agency or plan your trip yourself.

So, which one is your preferred mode of traveling? Sound off in the comment section below. I would love to hear your stories.

Pretending to be lost in Taejongdae, Busan

April 11, 2018 at 1:51 AM

This has always been an interesting. Personally, I prefer joining private tours when travelling in the Philippines and going DIY when it’s an international trip! Haha.

xx, Richel V. | Richel Goes Places

April 11, 2018 at 10:04 AM

Oh, same! 🙂 It’s so much easier and cheaper to join private tours locally. 😀

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Tour Packages

Daksh Farswan

May 11, 2023

Tour packages have become a popular choice for individuals and families looking to explore new destinations without the hassle of planning every detail. These packages offer a convenient and stress-free way to experience different cultures, landmarks, and attractions. However, like any travel option, tour packages come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of tour packages, helping you make an informed decision for your next vacation.

Introduction

Traveling is a delightful way to escape the routines of daily life and immerse oneself in new experiences. However, the planning process can be overwhelming, involving extensive research, booking accommodations, arranging transportation, and creating a comprehensive itinerary. This is where tour packages come into play, offering a pre-arranged travel solution that includes various services and amenities.

What are Tour Packages?

Tour packages are all-inclusive travel options that bundle together transportation, accommodations, meals, sightseeing tours, and other activities. These packages are typically offered by travel agencies or tour operators who specialize in organizing and managing group trips to specific destinations. They provide a hassle-free experience by taking care of all the logistics, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying their vacation.

Advantages of Tour Packages

Convenience and Stress-Free Experience

One of the primary advantages of tour packages is the convenience they offer. With a tour package, all the essential aspects of your trip are taken care of, from booking flights to arranging accommodations and organizing sightseeing tours. This eliminates the need for extensive research, planning, and coordination, saving you valuable time and reducing stress.

Time and Cost Savings

Tour packages often provide significant time and cost savings compared to planning a trip independently. Travel agencies and tour operators have established relationships with airlines, hotels, and local service providers, allowing them to negotiate better deals and pass on the savings to their customers. Additionally, by bundling multiple services together, tour packages can offer discounted rates and added value.

Expert Itinerary Planning

Tour operators have extensive knowledge and expertise in designing itineraries that maximize the enjoyment of the destination. They carefully select attractions, landmarks, and activities that showcase the best of the location, ensuring a well-rounded experience for the travelers. This saves you the time and effort of researching and planning an itinerary on your own, while also giving you the opportunity to discover hidden gems and local secrets.

Inclusive Services and Amenities

Tour packages often include a range of services and amenities that enhance the overall travel experience. These can include airport transfers, guided tours with knowledgeable local guides, accommodations in reputable hotels, and pre-arranged meals.

Disadvantages of Tour Packages

While tour packages offer many benefits, it’s important to consider their drawbacks as well.

Lack of Flexibility and Freedom

One of the main disadvantages of tour packages is the limited flexibility and freedom they provide. Since the itinerary is pre-planned and fixed, you may not have the ability to make spontaneous changes or explore off-the-beaten-path attractions. This can be frustrating for travelers who prefer a more personalized and independent travel experience.

Limited Customization Options

Tour packages are designed to cater to a wide range of travelers, which means they may not perfectly align with your specific preferences and interests. While most packages offer optional add-ons and excursions, you may not have complete control over the activities included in the itinerary. If you have specific places you want to visit or activities you want to engage in, a tour package may not be the ideal choice.

Group Dynamics and Compatibility

Joining a group tour means sharing your travel experience with a diverse group of people. While this can be an opportunity to meet new friends and engage in social interactions, it also means dealing with different personalities, preferences, and travel styles. Group dynamics can greatly influence the overall enjoyment of the trip, and it’s important to consider if you are comfortable traveling with others.

Potential for Overcrowding

Popular touristic destinations can attract a large number of tourists, especially during peak seasons. This can result in overcrowded attractions, long queues, and a less immersive experience. Tour packages often follow set schedules, which means you may visit popular sites during the busiest times. If you prefer a more intimate and serene experience, a tour package may not be the best option during high season.

Factors to Consider when Choosing a Tour Package

When selecting a tour package, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Destination and Itinerary

Evaluate the destination and the specific attractions and activities included in the tour package. Consider whether they align with your interests and if they cover the key highlights of the location. Research the itinerary in detail to ensure it offers a balanced mix of cultural, historical, and natural experiences.

Reputation and Reviews

Check the reputation and reviews of the tour operator or travel agency offering the package. Look for feedback from previous customers to gauge the quality of their services, the professionalism of their guides, and the overall customer satisfaction. Reliable reviews can provide valuable insights into the reliability and credibility of the tour operator.

Cost and Value for Money

Compare the cost of the tour package with the individual costs of booking each component separately. Assess the value for money by considering the inclusions, quality of accommodations, transportation, meals, and additional services provided. Evaluate whether the package offers a good balance between affordability and quality.

Group Size and Composition

Inquire about the typical group size of the tour package and consider if it aligns with your preferences. Smaller groups may allow for a more intimate experience, while larger groups can offer more social interactions. Additionally, check if there are any specific demographics or age restrictions associated with the tour to ensure compatibility with your own travel preferences.

Tour packages offer a range of advantages such as convenience, cost savings, expert itinerary planning, and inclusive services. They provide a stress-free way to explore new destinations without the need for extensive planning. However, it’s important to consider the disadvantages, including limited flexibility, potential group dynamics, and the lack of customization options.

When choosing a tour package, carefully assess factors such as the destination, itinerary, reputation of the tour operator, cost, and group size. By considering these aspects, you can make an informed decision and cure an enjoyable and fulfilling travel experience that aligns with your preferences.

In conclusion, tour packages offer a convenient and hassle-free way to explore new destinations. They provide time and cost savings, expert itinerary planning, and inclusive services that enhance the overall travel experience. However, it’s essential to consider the drawbacks, including limited flexibility, potential group dynamics, and the need to compromise on personal preferences.

When selecting a tour package, carefully evaluate factors such as the destination and itinerary, the reputation of the tour operator, the cost and value for money, and the group size and composition. By considering these aspects, you can choose a tour package that best suits your needs and ensures an enjoyable and memorable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make changes to the tour itinerary? While tour itineraries are usually pre-planned, some tour operators offer flexibility to make minor adjustments. However, significant changes may not be possible due to logistical constraints and the impact on the overall group.

Are tour packages suitable for solo travelers? Tour packages can be a great option for solo travelers as they provide an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and ensure a structured travel experience. However, it’s important to check if the package caters to solo travelers and if there are any additional charges for single occupancy.

What happens if there is a cancellation or delay? Tour operators usually have policies in place for cancellations and delays. It’s crucial to understand their refund and rescheduling policies before booking a tour package to avoid any unexpected situations.

Are meals included in tour packages? Many tour packages include meals, but the level of inclusivity can vary. Some packages may provide all meals, while others may only include breakfast or a few select meals. It’s important to clarify the meal arrangements before booking.

How can I ensure the safety and security of the tour? Prioritize safety by choosing a reputable tour operator with a strong track record of customer satisfaction. Research the safety measures taken during the tour, such as experienced guides, reliable transportation, and adherence to local regulations and guidelines.

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Package Holidays vs. Independent Travel: What You Need to Know

Thomas Cook was one of the early pioneers of a business model soon to be named in pop culture as “package holidays”. Ever since his first organised railway trip in 1841, Thomas Cook realised there is a sound business model.

From there onwards for two centuries people only booked their travel using travel agents they trusted and going on packaged tours.

However, in today’s ever connected and globalised world and with the .com bubble, it made the travel industry question whether this model is still viable. Explore with us below some of the pros and cons of each model and see which one fits best your needs.

Where to Book a Package Holiday?

What counts as a package holiday, are package holidays more expensive, how safe are package holidays, how to book independently, how safe is booking your own holiday, advantages and disadvantages of package holidays vs. independent travel.

Before we reach to any conclusions, we propose to look at both package holidays and independent travel and analyse them separately.

Package Holidays

As we mentioned earlier, Thomas Cook, was one of the early pioneers of this business model. This simple idea yet revolutionary of providing people an all inclusive (not to be confused with the type of board) experience which consisted of: travel to and from, accommodation and the tour of the attraction itself.

Sounds pretty simple but remember during those times everyone made their own travel arrangements, sometimes with dubious individuals. The concepts of a travel agency and consumer rights were still foreign.

The model then evolved throughout the 20th century with the appearance of a dedicated industry – the Travel Industry. The tour operator isn’t the only one selling tickets now.

The appearance of a dedicated sales office or how we know it as a travel agency that can be separate from the tour operator, meant tour operators could now focus on providing the experience and the travel agencies on selling the tours.

Whilst some travel agents had good contacts within the industry and were able to provide competitive rates or great holidays overall, it wasn’t till 1970 when the GDS system came online.

A Global Distribution System (GDS), is a computerized network that facilitates transactions between travel service providers and travel agents (both online travel agents like Expedia and human travel agents).

Nowadays, anyone can book a package holiday. The technological advancements which we covered above made it so that anyone can essentially book a trip anywhere on the planet without even leaving their couch.

If you’re wondering where to book a package holiday, all you have to do is a little bit of research on some of the travel agencies serving your area. You can start off by researching online, exploring the high street or even joining social media groups and asking for recommendations.

For us, we typically go with TUI as they have great customer experience and they also tend to be the tour operators. This means they control the experience end to end and can offer you something most agencies can’t.

Moreover, package holidays are for everyone, whether you are single or travelling with your family or as a couple there are plenty of places to choose from. Definitely worth considering this for your next trip.

Places such as Turkey and Bulgaria are great for families whilst places like Mexico are great for couples or singles.

Well, to put it simply, like in the days of Thomas Cook, it should be a combination of travel and accommodation. The package should be inclusive.

Modern holidaymakers have been used to all-inclusive holidays. Though you can have a package holiday without an all inclusive board, though they tend to be very popular these days.

These started being popular ever since the 1950s where Club Med started offering guests unlimited drinks and food with the idea that the guests never need to leave the estate.

Nowadays, all inclusive means much more than just the board type. It can include water sports, activities, shows and many other things.

So when booking, be sure to check the offer as in today’s ever crowded holiday market a big buffet might not be the only thing on offer. This is what we normally do when we go to places like the Dominican Republic or Mexico .

Whilst there are more people involved in booking your holiday such as the travel agent, tour operators, guides, transport etc. increased business efficiency combined with modern IT tools means that savings are passed on to the consumer making package holidays still a commercially viable option.

When we did our U.S. trip ( New York , Washington D.C. , Philadelphia and Boston), which was independently booked, we tallied up the costs and everything and compared to a similar package holiday.

The cost wasn’t that much different but we were able to plan our own trip in the order we wanted and according to the number of days we wanted to spend in each city.

Also, remember, on top of this you get in some countries a money guarantee scheme similar to the ATOL protection in the UK (mentioned below). Unlike self booked holidays this acts like a safeguard should anything happen on your trip or before.

So if you are wondering if it is it better to book a package holiday – then this consideration alone should make you consider if this might be the right option for you or not.

With the arrival of true international travel a way to protect your citizens was called for. Many governments around the world issued laws and regulations to protect travellers so whatever happens they can still return home.

In the U.K., Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) protection has been since 1973. This regulation is a financial protection scheme and it protects most air package holidays sold by travel businesses.

The scheme also applies to some flight bookings, usually those where you book flights (including UK domestic flights) but do not receive your tickets immediately. The scheme is designed to reassure consumers that their money is safe, and will provide assistance in the event of a travel business failure.

Another similar scheme is ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents), is a trade association for tour operators and travel agents in the United Kingdom. This associations aims to improve the quality of service provided by its members but also protect financially customer.

Unlike ATOL, which covers flight based holidays only, if a holidaymaker buys a land- or sea-based holiday such as coach, rail or cruise holiday from an ABTA member their money will be protected by the ABTA scheme of financial protection.

This effectively means that should your travel agent go bust whilst you are on holiday, under this scheme you can still enjoy your holiday and return on the same date home.

In other words, it’s very safe to book a package holiday.

Some governments around the world also operate similar style schemes. In the argument of package holidays vs independent travel this bit is often overlooked.

We had an experience where we truly appreciated the advantages of a package holiday. During our trip to Punta Cana , we had hurricane Irma (category 5 hurricane) come on our side of the island. TUI were very instrumental in arranging the evacuation and a like for like hotel in the capital of Santo Domingo .

Other guests were sent to the nearby school and slept on the floor throughout. Not only were we evacuated from the dangerous area, but we were also offered a 5-star hotel and excellent service. On top of this, we also got money back for the days we spent outside the resort.

This could be also something to consider on your next trip. It totally changed our perception of the benefits of a package holiday. Needless to say, we have been using TUI ever since.

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Independent Travel

Here is a photo of us, planning our next trip from the comfort of our garden 🙂

First of all, you might wonder what does independent travel mean? It means self booking your trip or holiday without needing a travel agent.

Booking independently has really taken off with the wide adoption of the internet and the .com bubble. With the creation of GDS systems which feed aggregators like Agoda , Booking.com , Skyscanner and many others; ordinary consumers all of the sudden became their own travel agents.

This, in turn, allowed for democratization of the travel booking experience. No longer did you need to leave the house or call your travel agent, all you had to do is type in the 16 digits on your card and off you go!

Whilst some individuals tend to be a bit reserved when it comes to booking it themselves, the benefits should outweigh their fears. In our article about How to Plan a Holiday we discuss some of the points that any traveller should have front of mind when booking a trip independently.

Whilst there are some benefits to booking a package holiday, self booking also comes with some perks. What we noticed is that the advantage of independently booking consists in the granularity and the choice for options at your disposal.

Want a flight Thursday at 5pm from your closest airport? Plenty of choices. How about a quirky looking boutique hotel at your destination? You’ve go it. And the list goes on.

An example here is our trip to Vienna , which we decided to combine with a trip to Bratislava . Given the proximity of these capitals and how well connected they are, we were able to plan our own trip, arrange our own travel at the times we wanted and visit two countries in one long weekend. How cool is that?

This plethora of choices gives travellers the flexibility of booking and tailoring their holiday to their liking. It’s a bit like making a pizza. For those that don’t like off the shelf products they are better off making it at home as they wish.

As we live in the UK, we mainly travel by plane. In our article on Top Tips on How to Find Cheap Flights , we even uncover some of the things you should consider when independently booking your flights.

Whilst booking a package holiday can have some benefits such as ATOL/ABTA protection, discussed above, if used wisely, credit cards can also provide a similar style protection.

Depending on your local country laws, credit card providers can offer certain benefits and protections. Some of these can also be engrained in law.

I remember reading in the news when WOW Air went bankrupt and there was this one line that made me reconsider how I book my flights. It was to do with the order of reimbursements in this particular order:

Credit cards
Protected package tours (travel agents)
Insurance (if covered)

And that’s it. If you booked with a debit card, the administrator may refund you after those above have been processed and only if there is any money left. Ouch!

Next day, we got our credit cards and since then have used them for travel. That is because in the UK, credit cards fall under the Consumer Act of 1974 which covers you of any liability when using borrowed money and when buying services or products and the vendor can’t contractually fulfil their obligations.

However, if your country doesn’t have this in law, some credit card providers offer it anyway as part of their customer service. American Express is well known for going above and beyond in these situations.

When we book our trips abroad such, we always book them on a credit card to make sure we are somewhat covered in these eventualities.

Don’t forget to get a travel insurance to cover yourself and your family. This is especially important when organising your holiday independently.

For EU citizens, health insurance is somewhat covered in other member states as long as you have an European Health Insurance card.

A similar scheme applies in the UK for healthcare cover abroad. You can get a UK Global Health Insurance Card (UK GHIC) or a UK European Health Insurance Card (UK EHIC). We both have the EHIC cards and thankfully haven’t had to use them.

Now when it comes to the conclusion, you will see it’s not a straight forward line. It mostly depends on your circumstances and specific situation.

It depends on your personal preferences, the type of holiday you are booking, the amount of time you have at hand and how confident you feel organising your own trip.

See below a summary of key things:

So the conclusion is that it really depends on your situation. You might self book when you want that extra fine granularity in your trip, otherwise a standard packaged holiday might do just fine.

As experienced travellers, we prefer to book our own trips and make our own holiday plans that work around our schedule and the time we have. If you are like us, you may find our article on how to plan a trip useful.

Remember, booking on your own also means investing more time and doesn’t always pay dividends if you are fairly novice.

Since our trip to Punta Cana , we appreciate even more the benefits of a package holiday. We tend to book package holidays for our summer all-inclusive holidays, so we can fully relax knowing everything is done for us.

Ready to book? Below are some recommendations to get your trip started:

Flights – we use flight aggregators such as Skyscanner and Google flights to find the best options. You can find more information about finding cheap flights here .
Accommodation – would recommend booking your accommodation through an aggregator such as Booking.com or Agoda to get the best rates. We also use TripAdvisor to read reviews.
Transport – consider Rentalcars.com for car renting or if you rely on public transport, you can use Omio for trains, coaches, ferries, airport transfers and even flights.
Activities – a great option is GetYourGuide , Klook or Viator for tours, excursions, experiences and tickets to many tourist attractions.
Travel money – we have Starling Bank accounts (UK residents only) with 0% fees on FX and a good Mastercard exchange rate. Revolut is another good option.
Internet abroad – with Airalo or Nomad you can access a wide range of eSIMs (digital SIM cards) available for different countries and regions.
Luggage storage – if you need to store your bags whilst exploring the destination, you can use Radical Storage to find your closest luggage storage and enjoy your journey until the very end.

As an Amazon Associate and member of various other affiliate programmes, some of the links in this article are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

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Paul Nabosnyi

Tour Packages – Pros and Cons

Have you ever debated on booking a package versus planning a tour yourself? I have done different types of tours and learned a lot about them over the years.

By ‘tour’, I am referring to traveling in a country or area where you want to move around and see a lot. If you are going to one single destination, this advice doesn’t really apply.

That’s why I decided to create a blog post about Tour Packages – Pros and Cons.

Pros of Group Tour

Cons of group tour, pros of self-guided tour, cons of self-guided tour, pros of independent tour, cons of independent tour.

I’ve had my share of group tours and really enjoyed them. I’m not a very social person when it comes to meeting new people when traveling. I’m shy and usually like to stick to myself or with my travel companion. But I found most of my group tours to be fun and stimulating!

I chose the option of a Group Tour when I went to the below places. You can click on the Destination link to see more info as well as the Tour Operator I used.

Galapagos ( Galakiwi )
Bali/Lombok ( GAdventures )
Vietnam ( Islandhopping.com )
Croatia ( Islandhopping.com )
Sri Lanka ( TourRadar )
Morocco ( Onthegotours.com )
Azores ( Net-tours.ch )
Cyprus ( Net-tours.ch )

Why did I choose a group tour for these destinations? Here are some of my main reasons:

Included multiple transportations such as boats, flights, and trains (which would be complicated to figure out and book)
Didn’t feel comfortable getting around the country or area on my own (too complex for the logistics)
Included activities like biking where they knew exactly where to go
Wanted to benefit from a knowledgeable tour guide to learn about the area

Someone else does all the planning for you
One price covers everything (and is sometimes cheaper than booking it yourself)
Opportunity to meet others and socialize (especially good for solo travelers)
Feel safe with a guide and group
No stress to get around on your own
Informative tour guide in your own language
Activities (such as biking) are included and handled by the tour operator

Most group tours have ten to twenty people. We got extremely lucky for our group tour in Morocco as we were only 3 people plus the Tour guide and the driver. It was like getting a semi-private tour for the price of a group tour!

We had a similar case when we went to Sri Lanka and the two of us were only with another family of four. It was so much easier getting around with a smaller group. It also allowed us to get to know the other participants better and develop a relationship.

Very little flexibility to do what you want, when you want
May be stuck with people in your group tour that you don’t like
Set agenda and schedule for excursions (no sleeping in late!)
Food choices are usually made for you and are usually a set menu or buffet style
May not like your Tour Guide (either not knowledgeable enough or annoying – believe me, I’ve experienced this too)

Worth noting is that usually during organized group tours, they give you ‘free days’ for you to do whatever you want. Free days are really nice in case you want to venture off to see something special or do some activities not included in the package. One example of what we did on our free day in Bali was to go white water rafting.

I went on two group tours in 2019 to Cyprus and the Azores islands (Portugal) with the same tour company. I chose this company because of the very low prices for these tours. I was very curious about how this company could offer such a great deal.

I found out how these companies can charge such low prices for their packages. Local businesses are paying the tour company to bring tourists to their factories with the hope of selling their products.

While we were in Cyprus for one week, we visited factories for carpets, jewelry, and leather. Each visit took about 2 hours. Some people would not like being forced to spend time in these places, but I found it to be a small inconvenience for the bargain tour package price. And yes, I did end up buying a leather jacket!

One more thing I would mention about organized group tours is that the best tours I’ve been on are with a local guide. The tour company may be global but they coordinate with agencies at the destination to have a local guide lead the group. Not only do they know more about their country, but the local tour guides enhance the whole experience and make it feel authentic.

I would say the only negative thing I’ve experienced with group tours is that sometimes you get put in a group with much older people. As the elderly can’t get around so easily on their own, they often use organized group tours. I’m no spring chicken but it does make me feel ‘older’ when traveling with a 70+ age group.

Self-guided Tour

This is an interesting option if you want the benefits of an organized group tour but don’t want to be part of a group. The way this kind of tour works is there is a set itinerary with transportation and accommodation booked, but you are on your own the whole time.

I did a self-guided tour in:

Canadian Rockies ( Canadian Rail )
Costa Rica ( CRS Tours )
Norway ( Norway Tours for my summer trip)

The tour company sends you an itinerary describing each day with the address of the hotel and pick up times for arranged transportation. You just need to be in the right place at the right time. When we were in Costa Rica, we shared van rides with other travelers. Sometimes the tour includes excursions and activities. If not, you can book them separately on your own.

These packages usually don’t include the flight to and from the destination. For my August Norway trip, the tour started in Oslo and included train travel to reach Bergen. From there we had an overnight boat trip to Alesund. I liked the fact that all the transportation was organized by the tour company. I think it would have been complicated to organize it myself.

The self-guided tours usually offer a choice of the hotel quality level, such as 3-star or 4-star. They select specific hotels based on your preference. I usually choose the option and pay the higher price for the 4-star hotels. I never had complaints about the places they selected.

I tend to choose these self-guided tours when I do girlfriend trips. I don’t like driving so much when I travel. It causes unnecessary stress in my opinion. These trips take care of the transportation for you.

All the logistic details are booked for you
Reduced time to plan and book it yourself
Flexibility to do what you want
The feeling of being ‘on your own’
Food choices are up to you

You have a set schedule you need to follow
Some stress to get to the departure location on time
Less opportunity to meet others
Limited choice of accommodations (can’t choose your own hotel)

Independent Tour

I call this one ‘DIY’ (Do It Yourself). This is the option I’ve chosen for most of my travels because I love to research, plan, and book my trips myself. It takes more time than booking an organized tour but you have the ultimate flexibility!

Some of the places where I planned the itinerary and booked it myself:

Italy Amalfi Coast
Italy Dolomites

Total independence to choose your flights, hotels (especially for staying in B&Bs), excursions, and food
Can often get better price deals by shopping around before booking
Flexibility to change your plans during the trip

Requires a lot of time to research and plan all the details
No one to give you guidance and knowledge during the trip
Risk of having to deal with logistic issues (such as if your car breaks down or you miss the train)

One special tip I have for planning tours on your own is to search for organized tours and then replicate it yourself. This allows you to discover the highlights in a country or area worth seeing. You can copy the itinerary and simply book the hotels and activities yourself. I used this trick for the Dolomites and Slovenia. I actually saved a lot of money as well by booking it myself.

As you can see, there are many considerations when deciding HOW to book your trip. For me, there is no clear winner. Each option has its advantages depending on where you are going and what you want to do.

Leave a comment below about what you think of my Tour Packages – Pros and Cons! Thanks!

For my Itinerary Planning service , I would consider all of these options to find the perfect fit for you. Based on my experience in the countries I’ve visited, I could definitely recommend different tour options for YOU.

If you are looking for assistance to plan your next trip, I am here for YOU! I love to plan travel itineraries for myself and others. For more details on how I provide this service, please check out my Itinerary Planning page and drop me a quick email at [email protected] to get started!

MY FAVORITE PRODUCTS… I get asked often which products I use when traveling so I created a page of all my favorite products. You can check it out here

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35 comments.

Travel and Explore BD

Hey Jan, I have found some informative pros and cons in your article. Thanks for sharing this. As a tour guide I agree with you. But planning a tour through a group or a travel agency is better in my opinion than planning a trip to a completely new place alone.

Cindy Moore

Great post! I’ve only done one tour package, with Globus for a 12 day Italy tour. I loved it and it was a great way for my grandson, daughter and me to see the country. The rest of my trips are either self tours or I plan out what I want to do and then my travel agent sets it all up for me, to my specifications. He can get better deals and prices than I usually can.

Danielle M. Ardizzone

I don’t travel abroad much, but I felt much safer (and less likely to be ripped off) when I went on a group tour. Great info!

Melissa Jones

I’ve done group international trips and planned my own. I agree, both have so many pros and cons!

I love the idea of researching a location…& the guided tour, then researching on your own to cherry pick the tour to make it your own and book it all independently including the tour hightlights in your personal plan! Very smart!

Jan, you’ve visited SO many wonderful destinations!! That sloth photo caught my eye right away, as we’re heading to Costa Rica soon. All of your photos are stunning!

Thank you for writing about the pros/cons of Tour Packages and Self-Guided Tours. The tours (excursions) are what we spend the most money on for our family of six. I’d love to trust myself to do a self-guided option (to save money) but I don’t trust that we’ll get to see everything that the area has to offer.

Thank you Erin and enjoy Costa Rica! I loved that country!

Cecile Leger

Wow, Jan. These pros and cons are super helpful. I never travel with a group before. We usually plan ourselves. But I don’t know these pros to do so seems so interesting. No worries to plan, and you get to see all the exciting places that someone could have missed otherwise.

I love all of your pros and cons. When I first started traveling I was a single mom and I took a tour vacation with my son. It was super fun. And yes, we traveled with seniors but it was perfect. As I became more experienced I book all my trips myself. However, if we ever traveled to Europe I am going back to tour vacation. Thanks for sharing this information.

Wow! This was incredibly informative to read and the pictures were great, nice job! 👍🏼 Seriously this was really good to know when traveling starts to be more open later. You definitely do have great adventures Jan and I”m really glad you decided to do a blog and share all these good tips with everyone.

Thank you 🥰

Thanks Denise, your comments are appreciated!

Alexis Farmer

Interesting read! I’m a fan of flexibility myself.

Such good information to explore all of the options! We usually only do local specialized tours, but I’ve been wanting to try a trip tour. If I can let go of the planning and researching… haha

I love to travel, but since my husband passed, it can be very lonely so I prefer small group travel! The pros outweigh the cons on my eyes! Great post!

These comparisons are super helpful – thank you! We have never done a Tour Package, as I really love planning our trips, however, there are definitely some pros to a Tour Package! We have looked at some at points, and I imagine we will try one at some point, but for now we will stick with the independent planning!

You are welcome! I agree with the fun in independent planning but in some countries, you may not want the hassles.

Wow!!! Great post! The pictures are beautiful. I had to say that first. Lol. You really put a lot of work into this article and you did a great job showing the pros and cons of each one. Great information for travelers of all levels.

Thanks so much! I’m glad it was helpful!

There are pros and cons to both. I tend to like smaller group tours vs larger ones but I’ve also met some great friends on group tours. I just miss traveling right now.

Yes indeed. I miss traveling too as I have only been doing trips in Switzerland and France this year.

Love reading about your visits!! One day I’ll be able to get out and about, but for now, I get to explore locally.

Thank you! Yes, I too hope to travel again soon…

Sabrina DeWalt

I am definitely a DIY gal. I love everything involved with the planning as well as the flexibility to be able to change things up on the fly based on discovering new things to do and our level of energy. Sometimes I am ok with missing out on something we had planned because we feel like taking a nap.

Yes, I know the feeling about being a DIY travel planner. That’s why I’ve started my itinerary planning business. I hope it will take off next year after this pandemic. 🙂

I never know whether tours are worth it or if it’s better to go solo. This is such a helpful article with fantastic information!

Hi Jen! I’m glad you liked my post! It may be good to experiment with an organized tour to see how you like it.

Cindy Mailhot

We travel in so many different ways depending on where we are going. We choose group tours frequently and opt out sometimes…

Hi Cindy, yes it all depends on where you are going and how you want to experience the destination 😉

Like!! I blog quite often and I genuinely thank you for your information. The article has truly peaked my interest.

Great! Thank you for reading my blog!

Carlena Andrion

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Guided Tours vs Independent Travel

Planning a trip can be fun, but it can also be stressful. There’s a lot to consider – what to see, how much to spend, and the amount of time to stay in one place. So do you choose to do a guided tour and have a fairly relaxed trip knowing that everything has been pre-arranged, or do you elect to plan your own travel – which can be cheaper but take more time to arrange?

Guided tours certainly have their place in the world of backpacking – if you’re short on time, guided tours mean that you can cram in plenty of adventure and culture in just a few days. Tours are also a great way to meet other solo backpackers and spend your time with them.

Independent travel on the other hand can be significantly cheaper, so if you have plenty of time but not much money this might be the better choice for you. Most long-term backpackers are advocates of independent travel but it’s important to note that many backpacker veterans actually started their trips with guided tours, to develop a good foundation in the world of backpacking.

What’s in this Guide

1. The Advantages of a Guided Tour 2. The Disadvantages of Guided Tours 3. The Advantages of Going Alone 4. The Disadvantages of Going Alone 5. What’s Best For Me? 6. How to Pick a Great Tour

1. The Advantages of a Guided Tour

Get the inside scoop.

In general, tour leaders are a knowledgeable, fun bunch who know your destination back to front and are able to help ease you in with plenty of fun facts, top tips, and amusing tales. Your tour leader will most likely have taken this tour before, so you’ll also have a lot of inside scoop on some of the best spots in town.

There is definitely safety in numbers and when it comes to traveling the world it doesn’t get much safer than arranging a guided tour with an experienced tour leader.

Instant friends

You should have a great group of like-minded backpackers to travel with. Particularly if you are backpacking alone, it can be fun to share your experiences with people who are interested in seeing and doing a lot of the same things as you.

Convenience

Having everything arranged for you means you don’t have to worry about bus schedules or which hostel to stay in.

Budgeting & payments

You typically know how much your trip will cost up-front and will pay this prior to leaving. Obviously, you will need to factor in any out-of-pocket costs like meals, souvenirs, or activities that are not included in the price of your tour.

In-country partnerships

Your tour company will have partnered with local specialists to provide the best possible adventures, which takes the headache out of choosing a rafting company at random. Many tour companies emphasize responsible tourism, choosing businesses to support the local economy.

Once-in-a-lifetime opportunities

There are some places around the world that are logistically impossible to reach without the help of a guided tour. Whether you’re interested in trekking to a remote location or somewhere with travel restrictions, some things are difficult – if not virtually impossible – to be explored independently.

2. The Disadvantages of Guided Tours

There’s no denying it, even budget guided tours are going to cost more than independent travel. Some guided tours can be extremely expensive so be sure to shop around.

Group dynamics

If you don’t like the people in your group, there’s not much you can do about it. If a large group of friends signs up together that you haven’t met before, you could feel like an outsider.

Limited flexibility

Guided tours tend to try and “pack it in,” which means you might feel like you are constantly being rushed from one attraction to the next.

Set activities

The cost of your tour will cover set activities and meals. If you’re not keen to go horse-riding up a mountainside then no problem, you don’t have to do it, but sometimes these expenses can make their way into your tour costs.

You might not leave your comfort zone

One of the best ways to get to the heart of a place is to get lost, screw up a restaurant order, and have a laugh with the locals. On a guided tour, you are less likely to have to take the initiative and may miss out on a truly wonderful self-learning experience.

3. The Advantages of Going Alone

Flexibility.

Independent travel is considerably cheaper than going on a guided tour and will enable you to stretch your budget further and travel longer. Most activities provided on a guided tour can be arranged in-country for cheaper so you won’t necessarily miss out on much by organizing everything yourself.

To make your independent travel even more convenient, find a car hire service in your location like Rental24.co.uk . This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Independent travel is the ultimate freedom. You get up when you want, you go where you want, and you do what you want. If you find somewhere or someone, you like and fancy sticking around for a few weeks then you can; you don’t need to worry about sticking to a timeline.

Pick your travel buddies

It can be relatively easy to make friends while traveling solo and you can meet more people as you make your way through your trip. You’re not stuck with the same people for a set period of time.

Independent travel is a challenge but, like any challenge, it comes with its rewards. Backpackers who hit the road by themselves and dive headfirst into the whirlwind of organizing everything on their own will quickly acquire great time management, haggling, and language skills. Independent travel can be the ultimate confidence booster.

Cultural immersion

Independent travelers have a better chance to meet with locals. Whether it’s haggling with a taxi driver, shopping at the local night markets, or discussing Buddhism with orange-robed monks, your chances of getting a feel for the local culture are greatly improved.

4. The Disadvantages of Going Alone

It can be tiring.

Organizing absolutely everything by yourself can prove exhausting. There are only so many times in one day you are going to have the mental energy to haggle for Tuk Tuks or use your bad Vietnamese to try and order a vegetarian option.

You need to be self-reliant

If you get sick while traveling and you are on your own, it can really suck. People you meet in dorms are likely to be friendly to you but nobody is going to take time out of their day to look after someone they have just met.

It’s more dangerous

Independent travel has an added element of risk – if something does go wrong you are going to have to deal with the consequences yourself.

You may get lonely

You may also find yourself being a bit lonely; sometimes a couple of days can pass where you won’t really meet anybody and if you are a little shy it can sometimes be hard to wander up to new groups of people every day.

5. What’s Best For Me?

Choosing between a guided tour and traveling alone is a very personal choice, so it is a good idea to ask yourself these questions:

Are you limited in time?
Do you like spending time alone?
Is personal space important to you?
Can you share a room with a stranger?
How about sharing a dorm with seven strangers?
Do you have a set weekly budget?
Is there something you want to see which is only possible with a guided tour?
Are you worried about arranging transport by yourself?
Is this your first trip?
How safe are the destinations you are visiting?

A balanced approach

If you’re a first-time backpacker, consider signing up for a short guided tour followed by some independent travel afterward. Being on a guided tour will give you the confidence and know-how you need to properly explore an area by yourself once the tour has ended. You could also meet people on the guided tour who are in the same situation as you and are keen to find a travel buddy for further adventures once the tour is over.

There are a huge range of tour companies out there, so it’s important to find the right one for you. Tours focus on everything from partying to birdwatching. If you’re a social butterfly, interested in having someone else be in the driver’s seat, consider signing up for a tour from a company aimed specifically at first-time backpackers.

There is no “right” approach as both independent travel and guided tours have their merits. While most seasoned backpackers end up gravitating towards solo travel as it’s ultimately cheaper and more flexible, guided tours are an excellent introduction for first-time backpackers and enable even the most well-trodden adventurers to reach destinations such as the Darien Gap or Antarctica, which would otherwise be impossible to visit.

6. How to Pick a Great Tour

To assure you don’t waste your money or time and have an awesome time on your trip, keep in mind the following details when picking an escorted tour.

Look for sustainability

When picking from the seemingly countless number of tour operators, you should pay close attention to the reputation a company has for supporting sustainable travel. What does this mean? It means the company supports the local community, offers eco-friendly options and provides you with a more realistic view of the destination. Why? This will give you the opportunity to have a more authentic, local experience, which will cut out some of the negatives mentioned above. It also means that you will be a more responsible traveler, less likely to have a negative impact on the place you are only passing through, but where people call home.

Find something that meets your personality

You should also find a company that caters to people just like you! There are options for every personality and every taste. Look around to find something that makes you say “that’s me!” There is definitely that option out there if you just take the time to look!

Look for flexibility

The way to get the best of both worlds, to have a planned trip, but also have some freedom to explore on your own, is to pick a company that does not have a strict set schedule 24 hours a day. Many companies offer a sort of flex deal, which allows you free days, or at least long hours, to explore.

Don’t be limited by geography

Group travel gives you the opportunity to safely travel to parts of the world you may be overwhelmed to go to on your own. Take advantage of this and explore all corners of the world. Look for escorted tours in places where you may feel uncomfortable going by yourself or that may be a bit difficult to get to without the help of professionals.

We recommend you check the guided tour packages that Indus Travel provides. As a reputable travel company, they offer safe and well-organized Israel tours , as well as great tours to India, Morocco, Egypt, and many more destinations that many people feel are not safe to visit on their own.

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Overseas Package Tour

Posted on March 30, 2018

Those who are planning to go on an international trip, the primary decision is whether to pick a package tour or independent tour for separate traveling. There are some advantages and disadvantages of the package tour.

Package tours may vary between fully escorted into the bare travel arrangements. Fully escorted results in travel with a group, accompanied by a guide through the entire trip.

An even far more independent form of excursion involves using the Tour operator only make all arrangements (air, hotel, transfers, day tours and local attractions, etc.). This could lead to considerable savings, and make more time for human interests.

For the traveler that attempts true liberty, the alternative is an entirely self-indulgent trip, making arrangements independently.

This is sometimes accomplished by way of a travel agent, online, or simply by managing airlines, hotels, etc.For all but the very seasoned overseas traveler, at least an employment of a traveling broker is a good idea.

To know more about overseas package tour, visit http://www.chiangmaiglobaltour.com/ and choose overseas tour program (Also known as “ เยือน http://www.chiangmaiglobaltour.com/ และเลือกโปรแกรมทัวร์ต่างประเทศ ” in the Thai language) services.

Advantages of Group tours:

A trusted Tour guide guarantees and makes all of the arrangements. If completely forgettable, the guide manages all of the daily preparation and knowledgeable insight into the area culture and history.

Language will probably soon be an issue, since the guide will offer translation needed, and so are acquainted with local traditions and civilization. Sharing the traveling experience having a set is an added reward.

The ability of bulk purchasing contributes to savings in contrast to piecing together a package by yourself.

Disadvantages of Group tours:

A group is good if everyone gets together, but disagreeable whenever there’s friction, and you’re stuck with those individuals for the full trip.

The owner ensures you just get what’s described in the excursion, however, leaves no promise you may relish it. Be certain the offering matches your own interests before signing up.

There’s not much freedom to explore by yourself, also it may possibly become bothersome being secured to a program, no matter one’s personal choosing.

For individuals who make an international trip for the very first time, an entirely escorted package tour will be a much safer choice. It provides the ability to experience various states with the help of staff and renders all of the agreements to a competent representative.

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7 Reasons Why Package Holidays Are a Great Idea

Package holidays and their close relation the All-Inclusive were pioneered by French holiday firm Club Med back in the 1950s.

Since then, the rise of expendable incomes and the development of resorts across the world have seen the package tour go from strength-to-strength.

But what are the benefits of a package holiday? And how might it be a better choice than arranging your own trip?

Here we explore some of the benefits of package holidays…

Package holidays are quick and simple to book

For busy families, couples and even solo travellers, package holidays are a simple solution to the holiday conundrum: flights, accommodation and transfers, and often some meals are bundled together, meaning when you book a package holiday you don’t have to spend time arranging separate components for a trip - nor how they fit together within your plans.

When it comes to the package holiday, scheduled flights, transfers and hotel check-ins are all choreographed to be seamless.

Less stress

Opting for a holiday package deal means you'll likely be in the same area for the entirety of your holiday - everything is on-hand, from hotel restaurants to pool access to evening entertainment.

Even add-on excursions can be booked with ease - either before or during your trip.

For many, especially those with children, this means less stress compared to a DIY holiday.

But what about the cost of a package holiday? Are package holidays cheaper?

Package holidays are often cheaper

For package holiday tour operators "economies of scale" are key to their success.

There are various ways operators can save money - from working to ensure capacities of brand-owned planes and hotels are filled, to organising efficient breakfast buffets and mass entertainment.

They also strike deals with airlines and hotels by buying seats and rooms in bulk (for a sizable discount).

According to one consumer report , package deals were cheaper than DIY trips in eight out of 10 cases.

Cheap holiday packages are now a bedrock of UK family life.

Affordable luxury

The package route also puts more luxurious options within reach.

While booking 5-star hotel rooms and flights separately can be expensive (especially if you plan to change accommodation/location several times), there are some very affordable high-end packages on offer. If a resort knows it’s getting the bulk of your holiday budget over the course of two weeks, it is more willing to offer a discount.

Legal protections

Package deals provide more holiday protection than an independently booked trip.

The vast majority of UK holiday operators are members of ABTA - the Association of British Travel Agents.

They enforce high standards so you should get the holiday experience you expect; and they provide protection in case a provider has financial problems.

Compared to a DIY break, a package deal means you'll be holidaying in the same area.

You won’t need to worry about booking extra transfers or arriving in unfamiliar places late at night - places that could introduce security worries.

Resorts have good security and tend to be bubbles of safety, often located away from town centres.

Holiday tour operators and their associated hotels will be able to solve any security worries quickly.

With DIY trips, on the other hand, there is an unknown quantity: will your next guest house be secure? Is the surrounding area safe? Will you be able to communicate any concerns easily?

With package tours, these issues are lessened.

Familiar surroundings and people

Holiday package deals are sometimes derided by DIY travellers as being less adventurous and more restricted.

But for busy families and couples, these points can be a huge advantage in booking a package holiday: knowing you're on a break with fellow English-speaking Brits (with whom it may be easier and more enjoyable to socialise), eating in restaurants that suit UK tastes, and generally not having to plan for the unexpected - are key draws.

Families with kids may find a holiday package deal is also a great way for their offspring to socialise with children their own age in a safe space - not least because the hotels lay on kids clubs and activities - (also giving adults some valuable "me time").

For those with young children, these "no fuss" holidays can be ideal, since taking care of their kids might be enough work!

Explore more on package holiday advantages and disadvantages in our blog, Package Holidays vs Independent Travel - Start Travel

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The Pros And Cons Of Package Holidays And Booking Independently

Summer 2019 is fast approaching and we can’t help but dream of sunsets and palm trees, but what type of holiday should you go on this year? To help you decide MyBaggage.com have put together our guide to the pros and cons of package holidays and booking independently.

Package holidays

Package holidays are trips which usually include flights, accommodation and transfers all in the cost. You can sometimes get packages that include food and drinks, just include breakfast or are self-catering. Package holidays are often to beach resorts and tend to be for one week or two.

What are the pros?

No need to plan

Package holidays are perfect for anyone who does not want to have to plan their holiday. Your flights, accommodation and food options can all be organised by your travel agent. They will likely have a portfolio of holidays to choose from, which will mostly be based around popular beach resorts. Once you’ve booked the trip you don’t have to worry about planning anything else other than your poolside outfits.

Family Friendly

Package holidays cater to families, with some even having kids clubs and babysitting services.

Transfers are included

This helps take the pressure off planning your transfers to and from your destination. Most package holidays will include transfer from the airport to the hotel. So once you get off the plane you won’t have to worry too much about how you’ll get to your accommodation. Everything is organised and you’ll probably even have someone to greet you in the airport.

Dining options

If you don’t fancy having to make your own meals on holiday, package holidays offer a well needed rest bite. With a variety of options you can include self-catering, half board or full board to your trip. This will mean that you may be paying a bit more for your stay at the hotel, but you won’t have to leave the hotel and find a restaurant. This is handy if you are staying in an isolated resort or are holidaying with kids.

What are the cons?

Lack of freedom

When you book a package holiday you will tend to stay in one area for your time there. You won’t often get to experience the country you are visiting outside the resort you are staying in. You are limited to what you can see and do. You are also further limited if you have gone fully inclusive and have your meals at your resort, as you then don’t have the freedom to choose an authentic restaurant down the street. A tailor made holiday avoids this problem”

Package holidays are significantly more expensive than independent holidays. You will find yourself having to pay extra for the accommodation and depending on whether you are going self catering, half board or full board. They are often in popular tourist spots or at beach resorts, which will also make prices outside your hotel more expensive. You may end up spending more money than you originally intended.

Less choice

Ultimately the big con is the lack of choice. You stay at the same hotel for the duration of your holiday and will use its conveniences. Depending on the meal plan you’ve opted for, you might eat every meal here, which isn’t ideal if you find you’re not fond of the food.

Booking Independently

When you book your holiday independently it is your job to find flights and transfers, accommodation and plan your own itinerary. Some can see this as the perfect opportunity to make a holiday that is tailor made to suit their needs, however others may not want the responsibility or the hassle of having to organise everything.

Accomodation

When you book independently you are in charge of choosing where you stay. There is also a wide variety of accommodation on offer, from traditional hotels, guesthouses, Air Bnbs or apartments. Booking this way means you have the choice and can change your accommodation throughout the holiday, say if you only want to spend the first week at the beach and the second in the city. It also means you can shop around and find a cost that suits you best. You’ll find you have a lot more choice of accommodation on offer compared to that of traditional package holidays.

Better for mini-vacations, multiple locations or backpacking trips

If you are looking for a quick weekend break or fancy getting away from it all for a few days then booking independently is a good option. It also is more suitable if you are planning a backpacking holiday or choosing to see multiple destinations.

Fewer restrictions

When you book independently you don’t have to worry about restrictions such as the dates, flights or accommodation factors. You can choose the dates that suit you based on which are the most affordable and which times suit you best.

Easier to hire a car

Package holidays often include transfers from the airport to the hotel so you don’t need to get a car. This can mean that once you are at your resort you’re stuck regarding transport options. If you book independently you are able to hire your car directly from the airport and therefore have more options for exploring your new holiday destination.

Flexibility for flights

When you book independently you will have a lot more flexibility for the flights you get to your destination. This will really help if you don’t have that much time to take off work and if you want to make the most of seeing your destination without taking extra time off. You will also be able to shop around for cheaper flights using things such comparison sites as skyscanner or kayak.

The only real downside about planning a holiday independently is that you have to plan everything solo. You will have to research the destination, plan your itinerary, navigate customs, organise car hire, transfers, accommodation and activities. For some they just want to relax and unwind for their holiday and not have to think about planning at all! Whereas others will see this as an exciting challenge and will leap at the opportunity.

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Obsessed with traveling dive in, but avoid these situations, julia porter.

Packaged tours are preferred by many tourists globally. However, these ‘planned tours’ are pre-designed for the sake of saving both time and money. Connect with a reputed travel agency Milton Keynes , highly praised by their previous customers for organizing hassle-free packaged tours to anywhere across the world. Buy a packaged tour including transportation, accommodation, local commutes, sightseeing tours and even restaurant deals to enjoy a 100% hassle-free vacation next time.

Let the online travel agency or the OTA that you connect with help you design the best Dubai holiday package or any other destination across the world so that you can enjoy the place without worrying about anything!

On the contrary, hardcore travellers by heart and soul couldn’t adjust to a planned tour as they prefer exploring the places according to their free will. If you belong to this category of travellers then you should contact the agencies for booking flight tickets only instead of asking for an itinerary or a packaged tour they sell.

Here we’re about to explore a comparative study of both the advantages and disadvantages of holiday packages. Let’s find out more—

Advantages of Holiday Packages—

Stay tension-free

For a tension-free holiday, go forward to buying a packaged tour. Nowadays, customising a vacation is possible online as most online travel agencies are AI-operated. If you’re thrilled to enjoy an island or beach vacation next time, compare a Maldives package and a Mauritius or Thailand package online. Whichever you find lucrative or matching your fondness you expect to explore during any vacation- just go for it!

Cost-effective vacation

From booking flight tickets to hotels or resorts according to your will, travel agencies mostly create a 100% customised holiday package for their clients. You can also mention about the type of class you want to fly. They can also find attractive deals on first-class or even economy-class flights you board for your vacation.

Let the experts do their job while you chill and focus on your job. According to various market studies by strategists, packaged holidays are more economical than unplanned tours.

Safer option

A packaged holiday tour is also a safer option, particularly if you travel with your family. Even solo men and women find it a lucrative a safer option when they are off to a vacation to a new country all on their own.

More convenience

A pre-arranged holiday package is more convenient for vacationers. If you buy a packaged tour, you hardly have to worry about booking the flight tickets or finding hot deals on the premium-economy or business-class flights. The same goes for finding and booking accommodation. Enjoy the facilities that the travel agency offers. When they shoulder the responsibility of designing the tour according to the itinerary, you can stay miles away from spending hours to locate a good hotel or buy a local sightseeing tour.

Variations to taste within a limited holiday

According to the time and cost you mentioned, the agency will create quite a few Turkey holiday packages to choose from with the help of AI. You can taste variations within the limited holiday package that includes city tours by walking or in a vehicle with a guide, sightseeing tours, local market tours, exploring restaurants, a good stay with expected amenities and services including spa and massage etc.

Disadvantages of Holiday Packages—

Limitations everywhere

Holiday packages are strategically designed whether manually or with AI. It is mainly created by focusing on two major things- cost and time. So, if you want to enjoy a budget-friendly and time-limited holiday then booking a packaged tour is the best option. You can also save your time and energy as the experts design the itinerary and book the flight tickets or hotels for you.

But, if you don’t agree to enjoy the vacation according to a time frame, then planned tours are not for you. Yes, it’s a fact that packaged tours have to be limited. You might miss a lot of such places or sights that you could travel on your own. This is a major disadvantage of packaged holidays.

In this case, you can pre-book your flight tickets and reach the place where you wish to travel and find a good place to stay and explore according to your plans. However, you might face trouble finding a decent stay during the rush seasons if you don’t pre-book!

White Magic Travels

Advantages and Disadvantages of Tour Packages

Recreational traveling is supposed to be a lot of fun, but this isn’t always the case, unless you are a travel addict, who will enjoy traveling even if you have to eat from a roadside stall or spend the night in a van. In case you are traveling with your spouse or family, you need a lot of planning, money, a bit of luck, and a lot of things to fall in place in order to enjoy a thoroughly pleasant trip without any hiccups.

Planning for a full-fledged trip, when you are looking to visit more than one place or destination can be quite difficult, especially when you don’t have a lot of traveling experience, or a friend or family member who has been to those places in the recent past to guide you. This is when getting in touch with a tourism company and choosing from one of their several tours or packages can be a good idea. But beware: taking up one of these tour packages have certain advantages and disadvantages. Let’s have a look.

Advantages:

A typical tour package will usually include plenty of destinations. Chances are that going to all these places on your own would cost a lot more, mainly because travel agents and tourism companies have good connections with the hotels and transportation companies, and also because they get maximum discounts for sending groups rather than individuals or single families.

One of the biggest advantages is of course the convenience. As earlier suggested, planning for a full-fledged trip and visiting various places will take quite a lot of planning and due diligence. But when you opt for a tour package, you can just sit back and relax — at least as far as planning is concerned.

You will be able to relax and enjoy your travel and the places without having to worry about the tickets, and hotel reservations in your next stop.

Tour packages can be a great option when you are looking to plan a honeymoon or travel with your family. A poorly planned trip can be quite embarrassing as well as stressful; therefore, going with a reputable travel company might be a safer option.

Safety is another big advantage of tour packages. When you are doing the planning, and choosing the destinations or activities to do, you might pick out a place or activity that might have some potential risks that you’d rather avoid. Travel companies know places inside out, and they will usually choose risk-free destinations and activities, keeping in mind the age and preferences of the participants.

Disadvantages:

The biggest disadvantage of a tour package is the lack of control. You need to follow the guidelines and a strict schedule. You cannot extend your stay in a certain place even if you love it. Similarly you cannot move to the next place if there’s nothing to be excited about, before the scheduled time.

You need to be extra careful while choosing one of these packages. The aforementioned advantages can easily turn into disadvantages if you don’t choose the right company.

You will have to be a little flexible with your dates and timings, in case you are looking to leave and arrive back on certain dates. You might find it hard to find an appropriate trip with the same time frame.

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10 benefits of a guided tour vs. independent travel

Of all the ways to get out and see the world, the best way to travel is on a group tour because you can sit back, relax, and soak in the beauty of your destination—while learning more than just a thing or two about the local culture along the way. No figuring out transportation, researching hotels, or booking flights required.

Here at EF Go Ahead Tours (the EF stands for Education First!), we know a thing or two about creating immersive, local-led tours. If you’re wondering what all the hype is around group tours, check out these benefits of guided travel, which you’ll find on all of our more than 175 trips .

1. You get the ease of an all-in-one tour package

Imagine a world where you don’t need to scour the internet for the perfect hotel, diligently monitor flight prices, or scroll through Google to figure out how to spend time in your destination. Good news: That’s one of the main benefits of traveling in groups. You can have the trip of a lifetime without having to research or book any of these travel essentials. Say hello to these advantages of guided tours, and goodbye to travel planning nightmares.

“You have the fear of going someplace and everything falling apart and I felt like from the get-go you guys gave me piece of mind,” said traveler Lydia. “I’m going out of the country and everything is taken care of. I don’t have to worry about the language. I don’t have to worry how I’m going to get from here to there. You get to go on vacation and be stress-free. Sometimes you can’t do that… but I truly, truly got to enjoy the vacation.”

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The pros and cons of tailor-made tours

Tailor-made tours are increasingly seen in the tastes of modern travelers. One could say that it is a modern trend, which is here to stay. It’s a modern trend that focuses more on personalizing a trip to offer a unique and rare experience to every traveler.

Of course, it differs greatly from the corresponding integrated travel group packages , focusing more on creating an overall experience for travel group members. After all, are tailor-made tours the perfect proposition for your travels with family and friends? Can they offer you something more than a tour group of people can not offer you? Let’s find out by analyzing the pros and cons of this new method of travel experiences:

Tailor-made tours advantages

Let’s start with the advantages of personalized tours, which are important and greatly affect a trip’s overall experience. The majority of modern travelers choose a different way of experiencing a trip, which does not follow the trampled, but instead offers them a truly unique travel experience. For example, an elderly traveler will appreciate a unique adventure trip . Tailor made trips are based mainly on the following advantages:

One of the most important factors of tailor made travel is, of course, privacy. Do not forget that your travel experience should be clearly personal, sharing and living these unique moments only with those people close to you. You are free from the “weight” of a group of strangers moving as a whole, with all the limitations that come with it.

Flexible Dates

Flexible dates is something easy to understand. They are flexible towards you and your personal needs. You don’t try to adjust your schedule and your time to them – like when you book regular group tours – but on the contrary: you have complete control over your vacation itinerary and planning. After all, the experience of travel is entirely yours, isn’t it?

Flexible difficulty levels

When I say “difficulty levels” , I mean some activities in a regular vacation package may not suit your needs and desires. You can avoid anything you may consider not worth your time, and just focus on those things that you’re truly interested in doing and discovering. Just choose them from you tailor made tour suggestions.

Custom accommodation

You have complete control over your accommodation when you book tailor made holidays. Whether this accommodation is a hotel room, a rental house, or a private villa, it’s entirely up to you.

Private tour of all historical sites

During a tailor made trip to a new destination, especially one with a rich history, you should visit its archaeological sites and learn about its rich history up close. For example, Greece is a country with an incredible past, which you have to uncover during your visit. Responding to this demand, the company Greek Travel Tellers is the ideal solution. Its specialized team of professional scientists possesses all the vast knowledge of ancient Greece. They can uniquely transfer to you all the information and knowledge you need through exclusively private tours, in all the must-see archaeological sites of Greece.

Tailor-made tours disadvantages

There are definitely some disadvantages to this form of tour guide, although it may be the ideal choice for planning our travels to various holiday destinations:

The cost of tailor-made tours is clearly higher because, as we’ve covered above, they offer more comfort and freedom of movement. And these aren’t easy or cheap for your tour guide to obtain for your custom journey.

They also lack spontaneity just as travel groups

Although private tours give you more flexibility in your movements, you are still “forced” to follow a schedule. The unexpected events are avoided and actually planned against by the operators of tailor-made tours. This choice can limit you significantly, but there are some who find comfort in the idea that nothing can go wrong. In the end, you get what you pay for: a completely carefree vacation.

In conclusion, I would say that the disadvantages of private tours are minimal. In fact, those who want a real travel experience without the burden of an entire travel group will surely find in this option the ideal solution for their vacation.

About the author

Mirela Letailleur is a Romanian travel blogger living in the South of France. She writes on The Travel Bunny travel blog about affordable travel in Europe. Creator of unique free travel guides and local travel expert. Problem solver. Wannabe coffee guru.

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Travel packages to Vietnam: The advantages and disadvantages between Self-sufficient travel

By lilystravel
Blog , Chưa phân loại , Must Read , Travel Insight

If you are still wondering whether to book a package tour or travel on your own, the following article will give you each of the advantages and disadvantages of the two ways above. Every time you plan to travel, the question “Book a package trip or self-sufficient travel?” gives you a headache, doesn’t it? it’s a package tour or a self-sufficient travel, each way has its own advantages and disadvantages, but if you know it well, it will be easier for you to choose.

Currently, travel agencies and tour operators have sprung up like mushrooms after the rain, providing a lot of package tour services to all domestic and foreign tourist destinations. With the division of customer needs, each tour package is also priced from low, medium to high-end, ensuring to satisfy all customers, including the most demanding guests.

Don’t waste time planning

You don’t need to think about scheduling, hunting for air tickets or booking hotels. The problem of moving to the tourist destination is also taken by the travel company, and the standard meals also satisfy most visitors. You just need to think about what to wear today, what to wear tomorrow, what to eat for a good snack.

Especially, if you go with a family with both adults and children, the choice of booking a tour is quite reasonable. Because travel companies always have preferential policies for children (for each age); The tour guide serving throughout the route will introduce the destinations, history or culture of each region, which is helpful, especially for the elderly, it will be very interesting.

Thoroughly consulted

If you book a tour through a travel company, you will be consulted thoroughly, legally guaranteed because they have signed a decent and clear contract, so if there is any problem, you will not worry about loss. . The sales staff of the travel company will monitor and take care of customers from the time you book the tour until you return home safely. Some travel companies also have after-sales policies, giving birthday gifts to loyal customers.

It is a fact that the tour prices that travel companies offer are mostly lower than when you travel independently. The reason is that they have signed contracts with restaurants, hotels, airlines to have preferential prices for customers with the condition that they book in large quantities and for a long time. Therefore, if you choose to book a package tour, you will save a lot of money compared to going on your own.

Read more: 7 things you should remember for Vietnam safe travel

Disadvantages

Fixed schedule.

Book tour package means that there is a fixed schedule, attractions according to the program and quite a lot of time. If you are not used to this, you may get tired of having to follow all the attractions on the tour. In addition, if you do not want to go to any attractions, you will have to inform the guide in advance so that they can prepare properly.

Besides, in case you want to stay a few more days than the number of days on the tour, you will have to pay the difference in the return date according to the airline’s regulations.

Eat and drink

You will not be free to choose meals and dishes of the day but will eat according to the group’s common menu and be negotiated when signing the contract. If you are a “snack fanatic”, you will regret your guts with the specialty snacks at the night market, or you can snack outside the main meal.

S elf-sufficient travel

You are free to choose your favorite attractions to include in your itinerary. There are famous attractions but you are afraid of crowded places full of people. If during the tour you have to “sweat” in line, when you go on your own, you can “straightly” remove this point from the schedule and go back to the hotel to rest or have a snack, go for a walk outside.

You do not need to race against time, the arbitrary tour plan can be changed freely without having to consult anyone, you can stay as many days as you want, you can go where you want to go, not Wait for the rest of the group if you choose to go on a tour, it’s comfortable, isn’t it?

There are many experiences

Self-sufficient travel requires you to find out about the destination in advance, you will be happy and excited when you arrive at the place you have seen photos of on the internet and feel the beauty of the mountains and the immense sea. The joy you bring to yourself is also very interesting.

Do your own research in advance of the schedule

This is an advantage but also a disadvantage for those who do not have free time, busy with work, so they cannot research thoroughly and book hotels and air tickets in advance for the trip. In addition, booking these services is also quite troublesome if you do not have experience, so there is a risk of putting the wrong date, wrong name … leading to a lot of costs.

Because you book individual services in the journey such as airline tickets, hotels or sightseeing tickets, taxis cost more than the prices offered by travel companies. Because as we mentioned above, they have signed contracts with service providers, so they will receive a lower price than individual orderers. Your trip is also because of that, the cost can be quite high.

If you subjectively book a hotel room by calling directly without an email or a confirmation message, if the hotel is not reputable, they will likely report out of the room when you come to check in. or have not received your deposit. You should note that you should book through reputable booking channels, with clear confirmation and preferably no deposit so that if there is a risk, the person who will lose is not you.

Similar to airline tickets, you will have to take the initiative to arrive at the airport 3 hours before the flight time. No one will call or text to remind you to arrive on time, so if you forget to be at the airport or bring your ID card, you won’t be able to check-in. Compared to going on a tour with a tour guide calling to remind you, this self-sufficient travel needs to be carefully prepared, avoiding mistakes or forgetting important papers and items.

Just now are the pros and cons of booking a package tour and traveling on your own, which Lily’s travel has helped you learn more about. Hopefully, depending on each case, you will choose one of the two suitable ways and have a happy and complete trip!

Read more: Famous tourist attractions in Vietnam: 10 Vietnam destinations will never disappoint you

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Mo, 21.08.2023

Package tours vs. individual tours: These are the advantages and disadvantages

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Deciding on the type of journey ahead is often a balancing act between convenience and freedom. Package tours and individual tours are the two main options available to travelers. While both approaches have their own pros and cons, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference, destination, and budget.

The following article is intended to provide a rough overview of the differences between the two forms of travel. At the outset, it should be pointed out that when booking so-called "linked travel services" according to the Package Travel Directive, a package tour can also formally arise. Simply put, the main difference can be identified as follows: With package tours, you buy from a tour operator from a single source. He is then responsible for the proper implementation and is liable for defects. With individual trips you put everything together yourself and in the event of a complaint you have to contact the hotel, airline and co yourself. Just because you have legal rights with package tours doesn't mean that one or the other tour operator doesn't try to talk his way out of the airline, for example.

Vacation Packages

Vacation packages offer a convenient, all-round experience for travelers who don't want to worry about the details. They often include flights, accommodation, transfers, and sometimes even meals and activities. Here are some pros and cons of package tours:

Advantages:

Convenience: Vacation packages are hassle free. All travel arrangements are handled by a tour operator, including bookings, transfers and activity planning.
Price stability: The total price of the trip is known in advance, which protects against unexpected costs.
Organized activities: Package holidays often offer organized excursions and tours that allow travelers to experience the highlights of the destination.

Disadvantages:

Limited flexibility: Package tours often have set itineraries and dates, which can limit spontaneous exploration.
Standardized experiences: Travelers might have a less authentic experience as vacation packages are often geared towards mass tourism.
Less control: Travelers have limited control over their choice of accommodation, flight times and activities.

individual tours

Individual trips offer travelers the opportunity to design their trip according to their own preferences and interests. Here are some pros and cons of individual travel:

Maximum flexibility: Travelers have the freedom to customize their route, activities and schedules as they see fit.
Authentic Experiences: Individual trips allow deeper insights into the local culture and everyday life.
Personal interests: Travelers can better pursue specific interests and hobbies.
Time consuming: Planning and organizing individual trips requires more time and effort.
Higher uncertainty: Flight and hotel bookings as well as transport have to be coordinated independently, which can lead to uncertainties.
Potential cost overrun: Unforeseen expenses can arise if not carefully planned.

Passenger rights and complaints procedures

Regardless of the type of travel, travelers have certain rights and protections. For package holidays covered by the EU Package Travel Directive, travelers have the right to:

Appropriate information: Clear information about the booked services, prices and contract conditions.
Travel price reduction or compensation: If the services provided do not correspond to the agreements.
Free return travel and accommodation: In exceptional circumstances or insolvency of the tour operator.

In the case of individual travel, the general consumer protection laws of the respective country often apply. Travelers should inform themselves about their rights and options before booking. Attention: In the case of package tours, the first point of contact is the tour operator, while in the case of individual trips it is always the service provider you booked yourself. As a result, in the event of a dispute with the hotel, for example, the law in which the hotel is located applies. But there are also special cases: For example, if the hotel was booked through a contingent of a tour operator and the tour operator acts as the contractual partner.

In the event of complaints or complaints, travelers should first contact the tour operator or service provider. If no agreement can be reached, they can turn to the national consumer protection authorities or arbitration boards, which can mediate in disputes between travelers and travel suppliers.

Overall, the choice between package tours and individual tours depends on personal preferences, goals and circumstances. Both options offer unique experiences and opportunities that travelers can take advantage of based on their needs. It is advisable to research carefully before booking and learn about the pros and cons of each in order to make the best possible travel decision.

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COMMENTS

10 Advantages And Disadvantages of Package Tours and Holidays
1. Limited freedom -. You may not have much control over the itinerary, and you may be restricted to the set times for activities. One of the biggest disadvantages of package tours is the limited freedom. You may not have as much control over the itinerary as you would if you planned the trip yourself.
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A month-long package tour across Japan can cost almost £6,000, where I spent around £1,200 over 3 months. This is one of the biggest reasons long-term backpackers avoid these tours. Find out how I travelled through Japan for 3 months for £1200 by reading in The Ultimate Travel Plan: Japan on £15 a Day.
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Five tour types are, in my opinion, the exception. I could easily take them and not experience most of the disadvantages of package tours. These include food walking tours, private organised tours, day tours, solo or single tours and all-women tours. 1. My all-time favorite is the culinary walking tour, which should come as no surprise.
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Package holidays are also a blessing when you're travelling with children: if the prospect of a holiday with the kids seems daunting at first, a package booking will take the weight off your mind and put the responsibility into someone else's hands. Then you're just in charge of remembering all the baby foodand in-flight entertainment.
The Pros and Cons of Package Holidays: An In-Depth Analysis
Package holidays have become a popular choice for travelers looking for convenience and affordability. These pre-arranged itineraries often include transportation, lodging, and sometimes even meals and activities. While package holidays have certain advantages, there are both pros and cons that must be considered before making a decision.
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Joining tours can help you cut down the cost. Some would argue that package tours are not flexible. However, some travel agencies actually allow you to customize the travel package. Also, I believe most package tours allow free time, especially at night, so you can still squeeze in whatever you want to do that the package cannot cover.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Tour Packages
Advantages of Tour Packages. Convenience and Stress-Free Experience. One of the primary advantages of tour packages is the convenience they offer. With a tour package, all the essential aspects of your trip are taken care of, from booking flights to arranging accommodations and organizing sightseeing tours. ... Disadvantages of Tour Packages ...
Package Holidays vs. Independent Travel: Which is Right for You?
In other words, it's very safe to book a package holiday. Some governments around the world also operate similar style schemes. In the argument of package holidays vs independent travel this bit is often overlooked. We had an experience where we truly appreciated the advantages of a package holiday.
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Pros of Independent Tour. Total independence to choose your flights, hotels (especially for staying in B&Bs), excursions, and food. Can often get better price deals by shopping around before booking. Flexibility to change your plans during the trip. Unique beaches in Seychelles.
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The Advantages of a Guided Tour Get the inside scoop. In general, tour leaders are a knowledgeable, fun bunch who know your destination back to front and are able to help ease you in with plenty of fun facts, top tips, and amusing tales. ... The Disadvantages of Guided Tours Cost. ... We recommend you check the guided tour packages that Indus ...
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There are some advantages and disadvantages of the package tour. Package tours may vary between fully escorted into the bare travel arrangements. Fully escorted results in travel with a group, accompanied by a guide through the entire trip. An even far more independent form of excursion involves using the Tour operator only make all ...
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Less stress. Opting for a holiday package deal means you'll likely be in the same area for the entirety of your holiday - everything is on-hand, from hotel restaurants to pool access to evening entertainment. Even add-on excursions can be booked with ease - either before or during your trip. For many, especially those with children, this means ...
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Family Friendly. Package holidays cater to families, with some even having kids clubs and babysitting services. Transfers are included. This helps take the pressure off planning your transfers to and from your destination. Most package holidays will include transfer from the airport to the hotel.
What are the Advantages & Disadvantages of Holiday Packages?
Here we're about to explore a comparative study of both the advantages and disadvantages of holiday packages. Let's find out more— Advantages of Holiday Packages— Stay tension-free . For a tension-free holiday, go forward to buying a packaged tour. Nowadays, customising a vacation is possible online as most online travel agencies are AI ...
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Disadvantages: The biggest disadvantage of a tour package is the lack of control. You need to follow the guidelines and a strict schedule. You cannot extend your stay in a certain place even if you love it. Similarly you cannot move to the next place if there's nothing to be excited about, before the scheduled time.
Tour Bus Vacation Packages vs. DIY Travel: Pros and Cons
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One of the big advantages of guided tours is that you'll sleep (and travel!) easy knowing every part of your tour with us meets these standards. 9. You have flexible payment options. Thanks to AutoPay, our interest-free monthly payment plan, you can book your tour today and pay for it over time.
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Tailor-made tours advantages Let's start with the advantages of personalized tours, which are important and greatly affect a trip's overall experience. The majority of modern travelers choose a different way of experiencing a trip, which does not follow the trampled, but instead offers them a truly unique travel experience.
Travel packages to Vietnam: The advantages and disadvantages between
it's a package tour or a self-sufficient travel, each way has its own advantages and disadvantages, but if you know it well, it will be easier for you to choose. Currently, travel agencies and tour operators have sprung up like mushrooms after the rain, providing a lot of package tour services to all domestic and foreign tourist destinations.
Package tours vs. individual travel: These are the advantages and
They often include flights, accommodation, transfers, and sometimes even meals and activities. Here are some pros and cons of package tours: Advantages: Convenience: Vacation packages are hassle free. All travel arrangements are handled by a tour operator, including bookings, transfers and activity planning.

10 Advantages And Disadvantages of Package Tours and Holidays

10 Advantages and disadvantages of Package tours and holidays

2. Convenience –

3. Variety –

4. Stress-free –

5. Connections –

Disadvantages of Package Tours and Holidays

2. Quality of accommodation –

3. Limited flexibility –

4. Limited options –

5. Unpredictable weather –

Final words

Roslin Dwivedi

Vibrant Experiences · January 31, 2024 at 9:51 am

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DISCOVERY #1 : THERE ARE DEFINITELY ADVANTAGES OF TOUR PACKAGES.

DISCOVERY #2 : THE DISADVANTAGES OF PACKAGED TOURS ARE EQUALLY OBVIOUS.

DISCOVERY #3 : THE PROS AND CONS OF PACKAGE TOURS BOIL DOWN TO ONE THING.

DISCOVERY #4: THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF TOUR PACKAGES AND THEY DON’T ALL INVOLVE A BUS.

1. My all-time favorite is the culinary walking tour, which should come as no surprise.

2. I also like the private organised tour – pricier than a package tour but far more flexible.

3. The day tour is a great alternative to mammoth group tours.

4. The solo tour or singles tour is also an alternative.

5. Finally, the all-women tours.

DISCOVERY #5: NEVER JUDGE A BOOK TOUR BY ITS COVER.

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Package Tours Versus Independent Travel: Which One is For You?

Consider getting a package tour

If it can make traveling more convenient for you.

If it’s cheaper to join a group tour than doing your itinerary.

If you want to see more attractions at a shorter period of time.

If you’re traveling solo.

Go for independent travel

If you don’t care for touristy places.

If you want to spend more time at a certain place.

If you don’t like traveling in groups.

If you enjoy planning everything yourself.

Final Verdict