(Family Features) If you've been dreaming of sun, sand, and sparkling pools, maybe it's time to start looking forward to your next getaway. Start building excitement for the upcoming trip by starting preparations early, which offers many benefits, including better rates and more time to research your options.
Start exploring ideas for a fun trip with these tips from the travel experts at Funjet, which specializes in offering travelers vacation packages to hundreds of destinations around the world:
Plan ahead
Booking your vacation well in advance allows you to take advantage of the best deals on
the most popular hotels and the hottest travel dates. Additionally, by being flexible on travel dates,
families can save hundreds of dollars. Shifting travel dates by a day or two can result in significant savings, often even greater than the discounts you can get on last-minute trips.
Search for dream destinations
Deciding where you want to go is the first step, but with a literal world of possibilities, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices. You can find inspiration by exploring top travel destinations chosen by others. For example, the top 10 travel destinations booked with Funjet in 2023 include many international destinations. Las Vegas is the only American city to make the top 10. Mexico is particularly popular, with Cancun, Cozumel, Puerto Vallarta and San Jose Del Cabo. Others include Belize City, Belize; Liberia, Costa Rica; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Panama City, Panama; and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
Consider all-inclusive options
Whether you prefer adults-only or family-friendly, luxury or budget, you have a diverse range of all-inclusive resorts to choose from. All-inclusive packages are known for their convenience and value. They offer hassle-free experiences with meals, drinks and often activities included. Although many resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean islands offer all-inclusive packages, be aware that smaller islands like Antigua may offer European-style hotels, where meals and drinks are not included.
An all-inclusive package typically includes a variety of activities and amenities designed to provide an enjoyable and cost-effective vacation. As part of these packages, guests often have the opportunity to access amenities such as swimming pools, participate in sporting activities, participate in fitness classes and other fun experiences.
Pack like a pro
Gathering everything you need for a vacation, especially with kids, can be stressful. To make the process easier, organize your luggage based on factors like the length of your trip, airline policies, and your family's activities. Essential items like an umbrella shouldn't be neglected, especially if the weather in your destination can be unpredictable. Maximize space in your luggage by packing travel-size toiletries, and place electronic essentials like your mobile device, charger, and headphones in your carry-on bag.
Anticipate additional expenses
Although all-inclusive resorts make tropical getaways stress-free and budget-friendly, it is customary to express appreciation for exceptional service with tipping. Resorts generally do not require tipping, but guests usually tip as a gesture of gratitude. When deciding to tip, families should consider modest amounts, such as $1 to $5 per meal per person, and be aware of varying levels of service as well as the convenience of using local currency. Having cash on hand makes it easier to tip as needed and ensures you have extra for souvenirs and other purchases.
Unplug and relax
Although most travelers find it essential to stay connected, it's a good idea to limit screen time to make the most of your vacation. Schedule a specific time, preferably in the morning, to respond to emails and online tasks, then enjoy a worry-free rest of the day. While phones are often used to take photos and videos or look up information about nearby attractions, putting away the screens means you can enjoy the scenery, connect with loved ones and have a truly rejuvenating experience.
Protect your group travel
When you're traveling in a group, there's a greater chance that something will happen that changes plans between the time you book your trip and the time you leave. That's why it might be a good idea to take a “travel with confidence” approach and consider including a travel protection plan in your reservations. This insurance allows travelers to cancel their trip for any reason, if necessary. When traveling in a group, opt for non-stop flights when possible, as you are more likely to stay together, which can mean a more cost-effective trip.
Enjoy the experiences
While spending leisure time by the resort pool with afternoon cocktails can be a relaxing reward, you can make the most of your vacation by planning a visit as well. Many destinations offer services that can help travelers book various adventures, from catamaran cruises to hiking and almost everything in between.
Find more tips and plan your next adventure at Funjet.com or call your local travel advisor.
Where to stay
Start planning your dream getaway by checking out these traveler-favorite destination properties, based on bookings through Funjet:
Top 10 All-Inclusive Resorts
- Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)
- Dreams Bahia Mita Surf & Spa Resort (Nayarit, Mexico)
- Riu Caribe (Cancun, Mexico)
- Riu Guanacaste (Costa Rica)
- Riu Negril (Jamaica)
- Iberostar Grand Paraiso (Riviera Maya, Mexico)
- Riu Cancun (Mexico)
- Royalton Riviera Cancun, an autograph collection (Mexico)
- Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun (Quintana Roo, Mexico)
- Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa (Oaxaca, Mexico)
Highly rated hotels for groups
- Royalton Riviera Cancun, an autograph collection (Mexico)
- Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort (Quintana Roo, Mexico)
- Dreams Flora Resort & Spa (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)
- Palm Oasis (Cancun, Mexico)
- Hyatt Place Waikiki Beach (Honolulu, Hawaii)
- Marival Emotions Resort & Suites (Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico)
- Royalton Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection (Dominican Republic)
- Manchebo Beach Resort & Spa (Oranjestad, Aruba)
- Bahia Principe Grand La Romana (Dominican Republic)
- Dreams Macao (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic)
- Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres (Mexico)
- Zoetry Agua Punta Cana (Dominican Republic)
SOURCE:
Funjet
