Unveiling the True Value of Travelocity's "Gigantinormous" Discount Offer

The "Gigantinormous" Savings Breakdown

Travelocity's promotion offers a two-tiered discount approach:

• Instant Savings: Book a Flight+Hotel TotalTrip package or a Last Minute Deals package for two or more people, with a minimum three-night stay, and receive an instant $100 off by using the promo code GIANTSALE. This booking must be made by November 16, 2006, for travel before January 7, 2007.
• Future Travel Discount: After the initial booking, Travelocity sends another promo code for $200 off the next qualifying Flight+Hotel TotalTrip package for two or more people, with a minimum five-night stay. This second booking must be made by March 31, 2007, with travel completed by July 31, 2007.

Case Study: A Family Christmas Trip from Chicago to Philadelphia

To assess the value of Travelocity's deal, let's simulate a family of four's travel plans:

Travelocity's Offer

• Flight: American Airlines, direct flights between Chicago O'Hare and Philadelphia International.
• Hotel: Best Western in Center City, one room with two double beds.
• Total Cost: $1568.01 after the Gigantinormous discount, including flight, hotel, taxes, and fees.

Competitor Comparisons

Expedia's Offer

• Flight: Similar direct flights with American Airlines.
• Hotel: Club Quarters in Center City, as Best Western was unavailable.
• Total Cost: $1,760.58, which is nearly $200 more than Travelocity.

Hotwire's Offer

• Flight: Comparable direct flights with American Airlines.
• Hotel: Doubletree Inn in Center City, as Best Western was unavailable.
• Total Cost: $1864.00, which is roughly $300 more than Travelocity.

Priceline's Offer

• Flight: Undisclosed details with possible transfers.
• Hotel: Comparable three-star hotel in Center City.
• Total Cost: $1,659, still more expensive than Travelocity.

The Verdict

Travelocity emerges as the clear winner, offering a "Gigantinormous" $200-$400 savings compared to its competitors.

Additional Savings and Offers

The potential for further savings with the additional $200 discount on a subsequent trip could amplify Travelocity's value. However, it's crucial for travelers to continue comparing prices, as other travel websites may introduce competitive sales.

US Airways' Promotion: A Modest Alternative

US Airways extends a different kind of offer to its frequent flyers, with special fares to warmer destinations and a $25 gift card per seat booked for future flights. This deal is exclusive to frequent flyer program members and requires a minimum three-night stay.

In Conclusion

The travel market is rife with deals that promise immediate and future savings. For those with multiple trips on the horizon, these offers are worth exploring. Travelocity's "Gigantinormous" sale, in particular, presents a compelling case for upfront savings, but the true value can only be determined through diligent comparison shopping.

For the latest travel statistics and trends, the U.S. Travel Association provides valuable insights here. Additionally, for up-to-date travel deals and comparisons, platforms like Kayak and Skyscanner offer comprehensive tools to help travelers make informed decisions.