Package tours are simply a way to buy the airfare, accommodations, and other elements of your trip (such as car rentals, airport transfers, and sometimes even activities) at the same time and often at discounted prices. Before you invest in a package deal, be sure to ask about the cancellation policy and any hidden expenses.
One good source of package deals is the airlines themselves. Most major airlines offer air/land packages, including American Airlines Vacations (tel. 800/321-2121; www.aavacations.com), Continental Airlines Vacations (tel. 800/301-3800; www.covacations.com), Delta Vacations (tel. 800/654-6559; www.deltavacations.com), and United Vacations (tel. 888/854-3899; www.unitedvacations.com). Several big online travel agencies -- Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, Site59, and Lastminute.com -- also do a brisk business in packages.
Some packagers specialize in Hawaiian vacations. Pleasant Holidays (tel. 800/2-HAWAII or 800/242-9244; www.pleasantholidays.com) is by far the biggest and most comprehensive packager to Hawaii; it offers an extensive, high-quality collection of 50 condos and hotels in every price range. Travelzoo (www.travelzoo.com) often has package deals to Hawaii as well.
Hawaii's top hotel chains offer package deals and special rates as well. Packages may be available for families, seniors, honeymooners, and golfers, and some offer discounts on rental cars or multinight stays. Check with Ohana Hotels & Resorts (tel. 800/462-6262; www.ohanahotels.com) and its more upscale sibling, Outrigger Hotels & Resorts (tel. 800/OUTRIGGER; www.outrigger.com); ResortQuest (tel. 800/GO-RELAX; www.resortquest.com); Marc Resorts Hawaii (tel. 800/535-0085; www.marcresorts.com); and Castle Resorts & Hotels (tel. 800/367-5004; www.castleresorts.com).
Travel packages are also listed in the travel section of your local Sunday newspaper. Or check ads in national travel magazines such as Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel, Travel + Leisure, National Geographic Traveler, and Condé Nast Traveler.
For more information on package tours and for tips on booking your trip, see frommers.com.
