Travel auction sites often offer unbelievable deals. As a parent, I’m always looking for ways to get the best bang for my buck. If you’re like me, you’re constantly on the lookout for that “golden deal” or an offer you can’t pass up. Planning for a vacation is no different.
Sometimes the best way to get a good deal on vacation travel is through travel auction sites. Make sure you read the fine print, and make sure there aren't additional fees or restrictions that make your deal, well…. not such a deal. There are many travel auction sites on the internet but I’ve put together a list of some of the best. Who knows, you may find a once in a lifetime deal!
SkyAuction
- An excellent vacation auction site, with some great deals. Note that the fees can be a little steep - they tend to be over $100. But even with that added in, the deals are usually outstanding.
Priceline - The "reverse-auction" site. You name your price, and see if a travel provider is willing to give what you want for that price. If exact time and exact location isn't important, you can save a ton of money with Priceline. This is one of the great travel auction sites.
Hotwire
- Hotwire is a "reverse-auction" site similar to Priceline, but you have a little more control. With hotels, for instance, you see the price, but don't see the hotel's name (but you can choose by quality). Hotwire is great and highly recommended for car rentals and hotels.
Overstock Auctions
- Overstock Auction consist mostly of luggage, but there are a few cruises, time-shares and other general travel deals.
Luxury Link - If you want a high end, ultra-fancy vacation, then this is the place to go. The deals are pretty good - you can generally save about 50% off the normal package rates. Warm weather auctions are starting at 65% off right now!
eBay
- The oldest of the auction sites, you can buy everything at eBay. They sometimes sport great deals on travel related items including airfare, frequent flyer miles, and luggage.
Generous Adventures
- A nice auction site, with a ton a good deals. Most of the vacations listed are very fancy, high-end types of trips. It’s the only all-travel benefit auction on the Internet, which means that the price you bid is donated to a non profit organization. A great way to get a nice deal and help someone out in the process!
UBid
- Another auction site, with only a few travel deals. Some of the deals are quite good, though. It's worth checking out.
Yahoo! Vacation Auctions
- They have a ton of vacation auctions, similar to eBay. Unfortunately, the quality of their auctions is a little lower than eBay, too. Still, it’s worth checking out because good values can be found.
Florida Vacation Auction
- If you’re planning a trip to Florida, check out these travel auctions online. You can bid and save up to 80% or buy direct from various suppliers and also get special promotions. You can save a ton of money here.
