Finding affordable vacation packages can indeed be overwhelming with so many options available. Here's what I've found helpful based on personal experience and what many budget travelers recommend:
Google Flights and Momondo: These sites are great for comparing flight prices. You can monitor price trends and set up alerts for price drops.
Kayak, Expedia, and Orbitz: These platforms often offer package deals for flights and hotels. They sometimes have exclusive deals that aren't available elsewhere.
Travelocity and Priceline: Known for their "Name Your Own Price" tool and bidding options, these sites can lead to significant savings, especially if your schedule is flexible.
Cheap Caribbean and Gate 1 Travel: If you're interested in beach destinations or international travel, these sites often feature great package deals.
One tip is to book during off-peak times or shoulder seasons. Additionally, signing up for newsletters from these sites can sometimes give you access to exclusive or early-bird deals.
For customer service, I've found Expedia generally reliable, but it can vary. Always check recent reviews and consider travel insurance for added security.
Hope this helps, and happy travels!