Five Ways to get Discounts on Tours

September 19, 6:57 AMBest Value Travel ExaminerDT Regula

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It's easy to find deals that operators want you to take - they'll be pushing them right and left. But what if you want to go on a tour that isn't discounted?

1. Decide the price you'd love to pay for this particular tour. It will help you if you have an actual figure in mind. You can always raise what you're willing to pay.
2. Contact the tour operator. Ask if there are any existing discounts. Remember, some tour operators may have an arrangement with one of your credit card companies or frequent-flyer clubs. Other organizations and companies which may get you a discount purely by being a member are AAA and AARP. Even just possessing a Costco card is enough to get you a discount at some car-rental agencies. Ask about senior citizen discounts - some may start as low as age 50. If you're a professional, in the military, or in almost any group at all, it never hurts to ask if there could be a discount for you. The trick here is to convey that you are very interested in taking the tour, but the price point is going to be a big consideration for you.
3. Be pleasant. The person on the phone usually has strict guidelines on what they can offer. If they truly are not budging on price, ask if there is a discount for paying with a check, money order, or wire transfer. Since most credit card companies take a 2-3% commission, you may be able to at least shear that much off the total price.
4. Ask if it is likely if this particular trip will be on any last-minute discount programs, and when those are likely to be available.
5. No luck? Let the representative know how much you appreciate their help, how you understand that they may not be authorized to offer a discount, and ask who in the company would have that authorization.  If the phone operator doesn't know, check the company website for the staff roster and contact them directly.

Bonus Tip: Find a roughly similar trip listed elsewhere for less. Mention it by name.

Absolutely can't get a discount? See if you can qualify for a free upgrade, a better room, a welcome package or a free tour. Sometimes these amenities can give you a much better experience - so even if you're paying the "full" price, you're still qualifying as a savvy budget traveler.