Families, friends, reunions and group vacations.

How to Save on Group Travel

Many families and friends are starting to think about reunions and group vacations. But as anyone who has tried to organize a large group of travelers knows, the process can be daunting and can carry a big price tag. Luckily, there are ways to make group vacations more affordable and the planning process more streamlined. Here are a few tips…

Cruises are perhaps the easiest gang trip, simply because once you’re on the ship, everything is right there. Cruise companies; generally define a group as at least eight staterooms or 16 adults that actually sail; so you should book more than 8 staterooms to be safe. Most Cruise Lines will often reward such groups with amenities, discounts or perks. For example, on some Cruise Lines, groups occupying eight rooms or more can get $25 to $50 per person off the total fare, along with a certain number of amenities. An amenity used for a group perk could be a party or divided up for individual cabin perks like a $50 onboard credit for such things as… used towards  tips, drinks, spa treatments, chocolates, etc; as with most cruise lines, the selection varies with the sailing and when you book.

You should try and plan to reserve nine months to a year in advance since group availability can be limited; however call a travel consultant and check on availability, you may get lucky.  The Norwegian Cruise Line, for instance, group discounts disappear 120 days before sailing. Also ask about special rates: Carnival has an Early Saver fare of up to 20 percent off (available up to three months ahead of time for cruises of five days or less, and up to five months ahead for longer ones). And if you contact a Snyder Travel consultant, sometimes we have access to special deals and promotions; for instance, our agency sometimes can offer American Express cardholders $100 back for a trip over $3,000.

This is why you use a travel agent; we know of the programs available on all lines, and can assist in finding the best value for you and your group. Even if your group is smaller than the eight staterooms or 16 adults mentioned above, we can work to find you the best value.