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The Great Deal! Or Is It?

Some incredible travel deals are out there. Most of us are budget-conscious nowadays and try to shave those extra few dollars off our vacation costs wherever we can.

Before you say yes to that all-inclusive package on Cheap Flight airlines with 7 nights at a "wonderful" hotel, do your homework. Does the airline offer several flights to Hawaii in case you miss a connection? Is this hotel, condo, or vacation rental what you are looking for?

You are responsible for the decisions you make regarding your vacation.

This Could Happen To You

I booked Cheap Flight airfare for myself and mother from the West Coast to Hawaii a few years ago. Cheap Flight apparently did not have a permanent gate. When we went to look for our departure gate at LAX, we went back to the same gate area, and we missed our flight!

It was bad enough we missed the flight. I take full blame for that. However, Cheap Flight Airlines put us on a wait list with 20 other standbys for that ONE flight to Hawaii the next morning.

The next morning came and we did not get on. Frustrated and exhausted, we learned the hard way by purchasing two full-fare, one-way tickets just to get back home. Thanks to me and Cheap Flight it cost a lot more than I actually saved going super cheap.

Where Should You Stay?

Please do your homework on accommodations. There is no guarantee that you will find the dream location you are looking for, but at least you will have a better idea.

Keep in mind that most tours and activities originate from the Waikoloa Resort and Kailua-Kona areas.

Should You Rent A Car?

YES! Please rent a car. I know it seems like a lot of money, but you will thank me. This is a BIG ISLAND. Public transportation is minimal, and taxis and shuttles will add up to the cost of a rental car.

Unless you plan to hitchhike, you won't see or participate in the many things this island has to offer. I have seen this happen over and over.

Cruise Ships

Cruise ships are a neat way to travel; however, keep the following in mind: Most ships arrive in the morning and begin shuttling people in at about 8 a.m. I've been told that those who have booked activities with the cruise ship in advance have first priority to disembark. This may make it nearly impossible to get to the tour you set up on your own.

In other words, you will probably need to set up your tours with the cruise ship, at cruise ship rates. Transportation is generally arranged to get you there and back. Some of the really cool activities are at least 20 minutes from the pier. Not necessarily a bad thing but a real bummer if you had other plans.

Keahole Kona Or Hilo Airport?

Here is a simple guideline: there are airports in both Kailua-Kona and Hilo. If you are staying in Waikoloa or Kailua-Kona, fly into Keahole Kona Airport. If you are staying in the Hilo or Volcano Village area, fly into Hilo Airport.

If you plan to stay at several locations on the island, it may be a good idea to book your flights in and out based on where you are staying. You may have to deal with a rental car drop fee, but you will certainly avoid a lot of wasted travel time.

What To Expect When You Arrive

Keahole Kona Airport is located in the midst of a lava flow. Arrival there has been described as "landing on the moon." This area is so barren and desolate-looking you may wonder what you've gotten yourselves into.

Never fear! Just 15 minutes south will place you in Kailua-Kona. Fifteen minutes north will place you in the Waikoloa area. Waikoloa is still in the midst of lava flows, but the resorts make it feel as if you are in a tropical oasis(which you are).

Hilo Airport is located near the ocean in the sleepy city of Hilo. Don't be surprised if it is raining. Hilo receives 200 inches of rain every year. As I will mention a few more times, a day without rain in Hilo is truly beautiful.