January 25th, 2012 
Tushar Mathur Have you ever been flicking through the TV channels only to stumble across a travel show where images of exotic lands are flashing before your eyes? Instantly you want to be there, you feel inspired, alive and fully charged. Then those thoughts come rolling in, you know the kind of thoughts, the ones that really rain on your parade: I’ll have to apply for time off, I’ll have to save the money, I’ll have to arrange the tickets and all of the travel arrangements, and who will look after the house/pets/plants while I’m gone? Questions! Questions! Questions! Before you know it your holiday fantasy is ruined and you fob it off as a bad idea or too much effort, convincing yourself that you’ll need a holiday to recover from all of the planning involved in your holiday.
Well stop right now! I’m here to tell you that you can plan your holiday and it doesn’t have to be a painful, time consuming, or overwhelming experience. By accessing a few free and easy-to-use travel websites you’ll be able to research, plan and save your hard earned cash for that get away with the click of a mouse (and some very nifty online tools).
Wotif: This website allows you to find the cheapest accommodation rates in more than 66 countries. Wotif also has handy functions including wotmail (email notification of ‘hot’ accommodation deals), deal days, cash back offers, currency converter, guest reviews, and the ability to add your favourite places to stay to a shortlist so you don’t have to go trawling through other listings to find it. A great website if you want to save time and a bit of money.
AwardWallet: This program organises all of your travel rewards, in one place, making them more accessible and easier to manage. Frequent flyer points, credit card points, gift cards – all of them can be added and managed by AwardWallet, allowing you to keep track of any rewards you have coming your way, or alert you when your points are due to expire. This is a must-look program for anyone wanting to save and use their points for a much deserved holiday.
TripIt: I saved the best for last – this program lets you do everything! Scheduling flights, booking rental cars, hotel reservations and so on. Forward on your reservation confirmation emails and TripIt will schedule it all into an itinerary for you, complete with maps and contact details. Perfect! Not only that, but TripIt will let you access you itinerary from your Smartphone, perfect for a jetsetter on the go!
Of course there are other trip planners available online, particularly on travel companies websites. Most travel companies will be more than happy to help you with your travel plans and eliminate any unnecessary stress.
Depending on the type of holiday you want, some travel companies may be more suitable than others (think adventure holidays, for example) and as well as preparing your itinerary, will be able to prepare you for your exciting expedition.
Getaway Trekking & Adventures specialises in Kokoda Track adventures through Papua New Guinea.
