But just like anything else you're searching for online, you'll want to do plenty of research. Not all vacation planning sites are created equal. So we've done some of the legwork for you. Each of the web properties listed below has a solid reputation for providing expert recommendations. And you might even find a few bargains when you're doing your search. But you won't know until you start looking. So scroll down and find a great place to start putting together your next trip on the best travel websites.

Some travelers might lament the decrease in personal service from a local travel agency. But many of the same services can be found online with a simple search. But just like choosing the right agent, the process starts with picking the best site.

We've searched for some of the best reviewed options available. And then we graded them on ease of use, helpful features and other details you'll probably deem important. The bottom line is that each of these best travel websites can give great assistance in planning your next trip. You'll just need to pick the one that works best for you.

There are a few sites and apps that aim to take care of your trip from start to finish. But most of them are just chasing the industry leading example of Kayak. We think this should be a resource for almost any vacation or getaway you're planning. The main reason is that it really works to help make things easier -- and more affordable. 

For starters, this powerful tool will help you find the best prices on all your travel needs. From airfare to accommodations, you can count on getting some great discounts. But it also works for accessories like rental cars. But it's even more proactive than that.

In fact, you can sign up for some really innovative alerts to let you know of new deals. Get the suggestions right there in your email inbox. You'll also have access to predictive prices as Kayak's algorithm attempts to forecast the future. And it's highly accurate, so you can buy with the security that you won't overspend. If you have some flexibility in your travel schedule, you can potentially get even bigger discounts. Check a range of dates and choose the prices or times that suit you best.

You've probably heard of one of the hottest new travel apps. Maybe you've even used Airbnb to rent space in someone else's home. It was a radical idea that upended the hotel industry. But it also served to create one of the best travel websites by completely circumventing big chains. 

Instead, you can choose from places to stay in more than 34,000 cities around the globe. So wherever you're traveling, in 190 countries, you'll find access to a wide range of homes. And there are more than 1.5 million different options available at any given time. There might be some trepidation about sharing someone else's home while they're away. But you can take comfort in lots of safeguards and really helpful reviews of each property.

It's also offered homeowners a way to make a little extra cash out of their homes. So we think it works on many levels. And we're obviously not alone. More and more travelers are warming up to this option. At this point, you can find every kind of place to lay your head. Just need a bed for a quick night's stay? Want to reserve a mansion or even a castle? You'll find all these options and much more on Airbnb.

There are lots of sites that claim to give you the best prices on airline travel. And several of the best travel websites do just that. But most of them accomplish the goal in roughly the same way. They'll check prices online, compare and suggest the best flights for your travel plans. But Skiplagged takes a different approach. 

Basically, the app finds connecting flights in which the layover is actually where you're headed. So instead of staying on the entire flight, you'll bail midway and you're right where you want to be. Often, if your destination is a major hub or large metropolis, it could be more expensive to land there. But if you pick an arbitrary city with your actual destination as a layover spot, you could save real money.

It might seem overly complex to figure all of this out just to get a cheaper rate. But with Skiplagged doing all of the research, all you have to do is book your flight. And the savings really might surprise you. If you've been flying into big cities for a while, give it a shot. It might be the source of some real value. And you'll also give someone in the connecting flight a little more room -- because you won't be there.

Need a little more luxury in your life? That doesn't mean that you can't get some help from the best travel websites. In fact, Jetsetter caters to exactly this type of traveler. As you might imagine, choosing the most opulent vacations requires a personal touch. And there is a staff ready to make sure everything on your trip exceeds expectations. 

For starters, you'll only be able to access properties that meet certain requirements. There are lots of details Jetsetter will check and double check before recommending a property. You can count on a great bed, strong internet signals, proper water pressure and many other details. Plus, there are other amenities that will give you a great snapshot of the properties you're considering.

From the drinks at the bar to the reception of staff at the front desk, you'll have plenty of usable information. And since it's in the form of a site, there's still the opportunity to save money on your trip. In fact, members and subscribers to the service can get special deals sent directly to their inbox. If one of the flash sales seems intriguing, you can jump on it and get a bargain basement vacation. But one this is certain no matter what you choose: Luxury is the name of the game.

You probably already know Google as the biggest search tool online. But you might not know it also leads the way in choosing the best flights. We put this one on our list of the best travel websites because of its overwhelming power. And the same smart searches you use the search engine for is available on Google Flights.

We recommend this tool for those who have been burned by less reputable travel savings sites. You won't have to worry about that if you rely on this site. There's an obvious difference between a cheap flight and a good value. And Google can distinguish between them. That way, you might not get the absolute cheapest airfare to your destination. But you will get a flight that won't make you want to scream.

You can put in a few key details and Google's algorithm will help find just the right booking for you. So no red eye flights out of a substandard airport. No overly cramped seating arrangements without any meal service. Basically, whatever you're looking for to remain comfortable in the sky is available here. But best of all, the site takes into account some of the hidden costs in flying. For that reason, you might come out ahead of the game after taking into account baggage and other fees. Plus, if you're are flexible in your arrangements, you might end up with a real gem of a flight. Tell the site when and where you're thinking about going and let it do all the work.

We'll end with a service that can seriously benefit those with a loose schedule. Maybe you're retired or just want the option to travel at the drop of a hat. Wherever you're thinking about traveling, Airfare Watchdog is keeping an eye on it. For starters, it's more than just a clever algorithm. There are real people behind the site who are able to really consider what makes the most sense.

That comes in handy considering what this service aims to do. It will help you take advantage of cancellations, airline errors and other things that can mean real savings. But since you'll have all the leverage, you won't have to suffer with an uncomfortable flight. You'll have access to great jets and airlines that would ordinarily cost much more. It's all about jumping on these deals when they become available. And Airfare Watchdog is great at helping you do that. 

Once you put in your travel information, the site starts its work in the background. You'll get deals sent directly to you, so you'll decide what looks like the best plan. And since there are actual humans working on the other side, you can cast a much wider net. Maybe you're interested in a smaller carrier, which other sites tend to ignore. Get access to these airlines and many more with a truly clever and innovative online service.

But first of all, you've got to weed out all of the less than reputable options. And what you're left with is a range of sites and apps that will truly aid you in your next vacation.

We hope our guide has helped clear through the clutter. We think each of the options above offers a unique and unmatched benefit to travelers. If you agree, share this article with the frequent flyers in your life. And leave us a comment below if you have any final thoughts or questions.

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