The organized trip: This is suited mainly for families with young children or those tied to the work desk where they have to give notice of their main annual leave one year in advance. It may sound a little unfair but as we have what are called the 'peak' periods, it means that if there were no rules set down, many workplaces would be without staff, particularly during July and August. The downside to pre-booked peak period vacations of course, is that you're not likely benefit from a late holiday deal.



The unorganized trip: Perfect for youths, single folks, and those who can get away from work at a moments notice. When I was living the selfish life of a bachelor, I managed to experience some of the best and most memorable vacations of my life. The buzz from not knowing quite where you might end up, or when, or for how long, is both exciting and adventurous.

Other benefits for unorganized traveling means that your are available for grabbing that late holiday deal, plus the choice to keep away from peak holiday periods where all the popular places are packed beyond belief and overcharge for everything. So, the late holiday deal does not only gives you great discounts at the drop of a hat, but if you time it right, it's cheaper once you get there too, so the potential savings are huge depending where you go and for how long.

Most folks though, begin to plan their summer holidays in the midst of winter, and their winter vacations mid summer. If you really want to secure a particular place at a specific time, then panning ahead is a necessary evil. In 1997, I took the same holiday package as my sister to Thailand and it cost me half as much. I got to go during the Thai winter too (December/January) which guaranteed cloudless skies, warm sunshine, and almost zero humidity.

But late holiday deals can still be had by many taking the mini breaks which are perhaps not as regimented as their main summer vacation. As most of you are aware, many airlines offer cheaper tickets the earlier you book, but if you're traveling off season, you can gamble and find much reduced fares just days before you are due to depart. Another late holiday deal trick, is to do as much of the arranging yourself as possible. Now, many folks don't need the hassle, but if you're looking to save a few bucks it really is worth the extra effort. I always call a couple of hotels direct and ask if they have any promotions going on. I've been real lucky with this simple tactic.

Actually, you might think it's a little cheeky or underhanded but I will get a brochure from a travel agency, and pick out a trip which interests me. I'll then break it down into transportation to and from airports, flights, accommodation, and insurance. I don't worry about excursions because they can be had for a song on arrival should I want them. I then do a little online pricing to see what savings can be had. Sometimes, the package deals are very well put together by the agents, and therefore hard to beat, but quite often, you can make your own late holiday deal at a great saving.

But don't rule out the travel agents altogether. There are a few in my town that have my personal contact details, and we have an arrangement where they call me whenever there is a late holiday deal available due to a last minute cancellation, or special promotion. There's no obligation and it's nice to be informed.

The best place to get practice with arranging your own late holiday deals is on the internet. Save a few of your favored airlines, hotels, and destinations to your favorite's folders and have yourself a little check list handy so that you can tot up as you go along. It's quite good fun as an exercise even if you have to immediate plans to go anywhere. Bon voyage!