We all love finding a holiday bargain.
You see a holiday advertised online at a price that looks almost too good to be true, and it’s tempting to click “Book Now” before somebody else gets the deal.
But there is one thing I always check before booking a holiday: what am I actually getting for the price I’m paying?
And that doesn’t just mean the hotel and flights.
It means looking at the whole holiday, including baggage, transfers and the support you’ll have if something goes wrong.
That Cheap Holiday Might Not Be So Cheap
Online holiday sites can sometimes advertise very attractive headline prices.
But the initial price may not include essentials such as checked baggage and airport transfers.
If you’re going away for a week or two, you’re probably going to need a suitcase. And unless you plan on arranging your own transport from the airport, you’ll probably need a transfer too.
Once you’ve added those costs, the holiday can be considerably more expensive than the original price suggested.
That’s why I always recommend comparing the final price, rather than simply comparing the headline price.
Always Ask What’s Included
Before booking, check:
- ✈️ Are flights included?
- 🧳 Is checked baggage included?
- 🚕 Are airport transfers included?
- 🏨 What board basis are you getting?
- 🛏️ What room type are you booking?
- 💳 Are there additional charges?
- 🛡️ What financial protection applies?
- 📞 Who do you contact if something goes wrong?
That final question is one that can easily be overlooked.
What Happens When Things Don’t Go To Plan?
Hopefully, nothing goes wrong with your holiday.
But sometimes things happen that are completely outside your control.
Your flight could be cancelled or delayed. Your transfer might not turn up. There could be an issue with your accommodation. You might need help changing part of your booking.
When you’re dealing with a large online booking site, getting help can sometimes mean trying to navigate online help, chat services or email support.
And when you’re already dealing with a problem while you’re away, waiting for an email response isn’t necessarily what you want.
That’s Where Personal Service Matters
When you book through an independent travel consultant like Tom & Maria Travel, you’re not simply buying a holiday.
You’re also getting someone you can contact.
We work with trusted travel suppliers and, should something go wrong, we can help you understand who needs to be contacted and what needs to happen next.
Instead of having to work everything out yourself, you have someone who knows your booking and can help point you in the right direction.
Sometimes, simply being able to speak to a real person when you’re stressed or stuck can make a huge difference.
We’re Here Before, During and After Your Holiday
Our job doesn’t finish the moment you receive your booking confirmation.
We want to be there to help throughout the booking process and, where appropriate, help you navigate any issues that arise with your travel arrangements.
That’s one of the reasons people choose to use an independent travel consultant.
You’re not just getting a price.
You’re getting personal service, advice and support.
So, Is Booking Online Really Cheaper?
Sometimes it can be.
But you shouldn’t assume that the lowest advertised price is automatically the best value.
Once you add baggage and transfers, the difference can become much smaller — and in some cases, an online booking can actually work out more expensive.
Then there’s the value of having someone you can contact if something doesn’t go according to plan.
The Real Question Isn’t:
“Can I find this holiday cheaper online?”
It’s:
“What am I actually getting for the price I’m paying?”
Found a Holiday Online?
Before you book it, send it to us.
We’ll take a look at what you’ve found and compare the overall holiday cost.
You may find the online deal really is the best option.
Or you may discover that once baggage, transfers and everything else you need are included, we can offer a comparable or better overall package.
And you’ll have the reassurance of booking through an independent travel consultant who is there to help.
Don’t just compare the price. Compare the whole experience.
📲 Found a holiday online? Send it to Tom & Maria Travel before you book.
💬 WhatsApp Call or Message
+44 7356 013977
✉️ E-Mail
hello@tomandmariatravel.co.uk
or
tom.clark@independenttravelconsultant.co.uk
