Feature: Top Ten Travel Tips

1.

Always use a fully licensed supplier who is ABTA, ATOL and IATA registered. This will give the client and consumer full protection and peace of mind.

2.

Consider using Fixed Fee. This will give promoters and agencies the opportunity to offer bigger and better promotions to consumer and trade customers while also giving them total reassurance by removing the uncertainty of redemption levels.

3.

Introduce and use inspirational incentive travel products that will engage your audience and consider tailor-made products and travel incentives. Know your target audience and offer a holiday that will exceed their expectations. If you have a big promotional budget and are aiming at consumers with a large disposable income then offer a luxury holiday to match.

4.

Expectations need to be fully managed. There is no such thing as a free lunch and what the consumer has to do or spend to participate in the promotional offer, competition etc has to be weighed against what is on offer.

5.

Put a communication plan in place that is prepared in conjunction with the supplier. The winner’s experience should begin from the first point of contact and that means having one main person that will look after the winner from start to finish. Confirm all details, however small they are.

6.

Appoint a supplier who has the capacity to handle all the administration and will look after winners for you carefully and thoroughly throughout the trip until they return. Booking and finalising travel arrangements can be very time consuming. People may request changes be made to the original booking and these all need to be factored in.

7.

Be aware of seasonal variances when considering long haul destinations. Ensure that the travel period is for a reasonable amount of time and offer as much flexibility as possibility. A short trip to a distant country may result in too much time travelling and not enough time spent at the actual destination.

8.

Don't forget to include extra ‘add-on’ items such as insurance and spending money. There is little point in giving away a prize if the winner can’t afford to go away or enjoy himself or her fully once there because of the extra money needed. Cover all reasonable costs where possible.

9.

Don’t rule out the UK. There are some tremendous hotels and destinations in the UK to visit and they shouldn’t be forgotten!

10.

Don't underestimate the "chat factor" and the longevity that travel gives. Countless and lasting memories will be created from a trip abroad and consumers will talk about this endlessly with family and friends. This is especially true when compared with winning a merchandise gift such as a DVD player or an ipod.