Planning a vacation can be a fun but stressful event. Booking a complete travel package can not only reduce your stress, but also save you a lot of money. Here are some useful tips as you consider whether booking a vacation package is your best option for your next getaway.

1. Plan early. Plan and book your vacation as soon as possible to avoid any sudden bookings of groups and other travelers at the same time and to ensure that your travel preferences are still available.

2. Customize your travel package. Most travel packages have plenty of options and are customizable. So see which features are attractive to you and try get the best deal for your buck.

3. Select your travel agent wisely. Not all travel agents are the same. And some can package better than others due to enhanced computers and software, more experience, more creativity, company expense budgets, etc. So shop around and compare rates and package features. Get references from friends and family members.

4. Confirm availabilty. Be certain your package dates and locations are available before running off with the beautiful brochure to show everyone. Because before you buy your new travel clothes, the trip may have already been cancelled. So check first. Plan later.

5. Reserve direct flights when possible. Look for non-stop flights and alternate land-travel route. Plus and carry along maps and extra travel goodies (snacks, change of clothes, medications, batteries, extra funds…) for unexpected layovers and detours.

6. Evaluate other options. Check for possible combinations like staying an extra day, traveling with a rental car for half the time only, ditching it when you reach your hotel, etc.

7. Look for ways to save money. (Vacations always cost more than you expect.) Always, always, always ask for discounts. See if there are coupon books, travel guides with possible coupons, two-for-one deals…anything and everything.

8. Share the costs. If you find a great package that’s a bit costly for you, see if you can find a couple of relatives or friends who may want to go along, too, and split the costs. Or ask your travel agent to help you locate travelers to share the package with, splitting the costs. You may be able to place a classified ad or post of forums, too. Check into your options.

9. Find your niche. Some travel companies specialize in packages targeted at certain niche groups like seniors, women, singles, etc. And you get extra goodies like a travel pack with samples, snacks, coupons, gaming tokens and more. So check around and get on their mailing lists for upcoming specials.

10. And of course, have fun and go with the flow! Vacations don't always go as planned, but if there is a mix-up, do your best to enjoy it anyway. Remember, a bad day on vacation is ALWAYS better than a good day at work!