Before I book
WHAT IS AND ISN'T INCLUDED IN THE PRICE SHOWN ONLINE FOR MY TRIP?
The price you see on the Costsaver website is per person based on two guests sharing a room. Solo pricing can be found in the first step of the booking process, once you have selected your departure.
What's included in this price:
- All hotels
- Many meals as described in the trip itinerary
- Restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Sightseeing and activities as described in your itinerary
Airport transfers depend on your destination.
What isn't included in this price:
- Flights. These can be added during the booking process.
- Extra hotel nights for before and after your trip. These can be added during the booking process.
- Choice Experiences. These can be booked and paid for during your trip.
ARE FLIGHTS INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE?
No. Flights are not included in the trip cost shown on our website but you can add flights to your booking during the booking process (subject to availability). Simply select your desired departure and click Continue to start building your trip package.
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS AS A SOLO TRAVELER?
As a solo traveler you can choose between two room options.
Solo room share: You will be matched with another guest of the same gender in a twin room. This option does not incur any solo supplement. This option is not available on trips in Asia, Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Solo room: If you prefer more space, you can opt for a solo room. This option will incur a solo supplement. Solo rooms depend on availability.
CAN I BOOK A GROUP TRIP?
We offer enticing discounts when you travel with Costsaver in a group. Secure between 9-48 places on a set departure and enjoy great benefits.
Before I go
WHY DO I NEED TO PRE-REGISTER FOR MY TRIP ON THE MYCOSTSAVER PORTAL?
We require all our guests to register before they travel. Every travel moment counts so we do this to ensure that your trip runs seamlessly, and it also means we can contact you in the unlikely event of an emergency. Registration only takes a few minutes and you will be asked to enter your contact details such as an email address, a mobile phone number and the contact details of a nominated person we can call in the event of an emergency. We also invite you to share details of any specific dietary requirements and travel preferences, special celebrations etc.
Europe, North & South America, Australia & New Zealand trips: Once registered, you will find all your itinerary details, be able to download your e-Documents and meet your Travel Director online.
Africa & Asia trips: Unfortunately, our Africa and Asia Travel Directors do not have the same level of access to passenger details as on other destination tours, so you will not be able to connect with them prior to the trip or online. Rest assured, the quality of your on-trip experience will still be impeccable and they are looking forward to meeting you on trip.
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE CAN I BRING?
European tours: Traveling with Costsaver entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with the dimensions of 76cm x 46cm x 25cm (30” x 18” x 10”). Carry-on/hand luggage is restricted to one piece per person, not exceeding 12”x11”x6” (30x28x14 cm) to fit under your coach seat or in the small overhead compartment.We strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.
North & South America, Australia & New Zealand tours: You can bring one suitcase per person with the dimensions of 76cm x 46cm x 25cm (30” x 18” x 10”) and weight not exceeding 23 kg (50 lbs) due to the limited space on the coach. You can also bring one piece of hand luggage, provided it is small enough to take on the coach and does not have telescopic handles.
Africa & Asia tours: East Africa safari vehicles cannot accommodate the regular luggage dimensions and weights listed above. We kindly ask our guests to travel with a soft-sided bag or medium-sized suitcase. For internal flights within Costsaver Asia tours, there is generally a 20kg luggage allowance.
DO I NEED TRAVEL INSURANCE?
We highly recommend guests purchase travel insurance prior to your trip.
Please ensure you add the details of your insurance to the MyCostsaver Travel Portal. Your insurance should cover trip interruption, personal injury, medical expenses, and evacuation and repatriation cover including during pandemic events.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your Travel Agent and the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Costsaver is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visa requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips: Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday. Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time. Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country when transiting through
UK & Ireland: Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl. transiting travelers
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. It costs £16 and is valid for 2 years.
For all other entry requirements please check with your nearest consulate.
USA trips incl. transiting travelers: US law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
Rest of the World trips: Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult your Travel Agent and the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
On the road
WHAT FACILITIES CAN I EXPECT ON A COSTSAVER COACH?
Regardless of where in the world your tour visits, we do our best to ensure your coach is as comfortable as it can be. However, there can be differences depending on where in the world you're visiting:
Europe, North & South America, Australia & New Zealand tours: We take great pride in having the finest fleet of fuel-efficient, fully air-conditioned coaches – all with reclining seats and on-board restrooms. The coach windows have a high vantage point perfect to take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a grand rural landscape or an urban city centre. We also have onboard Wi-Fi.Please note, the coach WiFi uses the 3G mobile network, which means the connection can be slower than standard broadband.
Africa & Asia tours: We're proud to offer luxury air-conditioned coaches with Wi-Fi in most countries. Africa and Asia tour vehicles do not have Wi-Fi on board. On Asia tours, there are no onboard restrooms.
HOW MANY PEOPLE WILL BE ON MY TRIP?
The number of guests on tour with you can vary depending on where your tour is going:
Europe trips: An average of 40 to 45 guests
United States and Canada trips: A maximum of 52 guests
Australia and New Zealand trips: A maximum of 50 guests
Asia trips: A maximum of 40 guests
Africa trips: A maximum of 40 guests
Latin America trips: A maximum of 40 to 45 guests
The beauty of taking a guided tour is that you'll get to know people from all over the globe as part of your group.
WILL I HAVE FREE TIME?
Yes. At Costsaver we take care of the essentials and you tailor the rest. Each trip includes the must-see sights plus plenty of free time to fill with whatever you choose. With over 550 Choice Optional Experiences across our tours, there's something for everyone.If you would like to exclude yourself from an included experience please ensure you speak with your Travel Director, so they are aware of your plans. They will make sure you are aware of any necessary times or meeting points. Please note we cannot provide any compensation or refunds, if you decide to not take part in an included activity or meal.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM A COSTSAVER HOTEL?
Costsaver hotels are handpicked to ensure they meet our high standards.
WHAT IS A TRAVEL DIRECTOR?
Our Travel Directors come from a variety of backgrounds but they all share a passion for travel and their home countries. These experienced professionals show you what the guidebooks can’t – a true insider’s perspective of each destination. Each Travel Director has been through a bespoke training program and many have at least five years’ experience under their belt.
Europe, North & South America, Australia & New Zealand tours:Here at Costsaver, we know the human touch is what differentiates unforgettable travel experiences from those that are just ‘good’. Our beloved Travel Directors come from a variety of backgrounds, but they all share a passion for travel and their home countries. These experienced travel professionals have the skills and experience to show you what the guidebooks can’t – a real insider’s perspective of each destination you visit.
Each Travel Director has taken a bespoke training programme, and many of them have at least five years of experience under their belt. They will also be there to offer support should any problems or issues arise.
Our Travel Directors have plenty of stories to tell and are just as interested in hearing yours so that they can anticipate your needs and give personal touches as part of your Costsaver tour.
Africa & Asia tours: On our East Africa and Namibia tours, you will be accompanied by the Costsaver Driver Guide, who is both a driver and a destination expert.
WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MEALS AND BEVERAGES ON MY TRIP?
Food and drink is at the heart of every destination. Your trip itinerary contains information on included meals and your Travel Director will provide recommendations for places to eat in each new place.
Specific Dietary Requirements
We encourage guests to advise us of any specific dietary requirements during registration on the MyCostsaver portal. Please also advise your Travel Director of your needs. Hotels and restaurants will be told in advance and suppliers will do their utmost to provide alternative options, although this cannot be guaranteed.
Drinking Water
We care about the planet. With that in mind, we recommend you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip to reduce your plastic waste. The majority of countries in Europe have safe drinking water. In Eastern Europe, you may find alternative water options are recommended in some areas. Your Travel Director will advise when the use of bottled water is recommended. There will be multiple rest stops throughout the day where you can refill your bottle with water or purchase a drink. We recommend the app Tap - Find Water Anywhere on your phone, which shows you the nearest refill station.
HOW MUCH WALKING IS INVOLVED IN YOUR TRIPS?
Our itineraries are a well-balanced mix of walking and enjoying sites from the comfort of your coach. The activity level and amount of walking can vary, so it is important that you bring adequate footwear to ensure your comfort and safety. When walking there can be some uneven terrain or times when more walking is required than others.
HOW DOES COSTSAVER PROMOTE SUSTAINABLE TOURISM?
Costsaver is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organization established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world. Find out more about how we MAKE TRAVEL MATTER.
