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February 13, 2017

How to Book a Luxury Vacation for Less

Savvy travelers know the best vacation packages can be found online for less. Whether you’re booking your honeymoon, a long weekend getaway or a group trip, you can save big on luxury travel if you know where to look. When you search through Ebates, you’ll get even bigger savings with a special promo code and Cash Back.

Hilton Hotels and Resorts

Hilton Hotels offers luxurious rooms and accommodations for all your vacation, business and bridal needs.

Savings Tips:
• Shop the Offers section to earn bonus points and get 20 percent off an early booking. If you’re an AAA or AARP member, you can get 5 percent off.
• Take advantage of Hilton’s free Hilton HHonors membership and earn loyalty points and perks such as late checkout and free breakfast.

Orbitz

From discount flights and hotels to car rentals and full vacation packages, Orbitz knows how to travel on a budget.

Savings Tips:
• Head to the Deals section for money-saving promo codes and unbeatable prices on hotels.
• Join Orbitz Rewards to earn up to 5 percent on your hotel stay and 1 percent on flights.
• Check out the Orbitz travel guide for the insider scoop on the best times to find travel packages to some of the world’s best tropical resorts.

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Hotwire

Hotwire offers deals on hotels, car rentals and flights all around the world.

Savings Tips:
• Save a bundle when you book at the last minute. Check out Hotwire’s Cheap Travel and Last Minute Deals sections to save on your spontaneous getaway.
• Find even more deals when you download Hotwire’s mobile app. It’s the easiest way to book and save.
• Use the TripStarter feature to choose your destination and departure airports and find out when flights and hotel rates historically have been the cheapest.

Expedia

Known for its travel bargains, Expedia offers a Best Price Guarantee so you’ll get the lowest price possible on your trip.

Savings Tips:
• Use Expedia’s free app to get a special promo code for $25 off your first hotel booking.
• Unlock special member pricing and save an extra 10 percent or more when you book with select hotels.

Atlantis

Atlantis vacation packages include meals, entertainment, drinks, local transportation and entrance to water parks at the Bahamian resort.

Savings Tips:
• Get the lowest rates and exclusive benefits when you book specialty offers. Select your location to see the offers for that hotel.

Booking.com

Booking.com is the place to go when you want to book a smaller, independent hotel with a more personal feel.

Savings Tips:
• Subscribe to the Booking.com email list and gain access to exclusive secret deals of up to 50 percent off!

Priceline

Priceline allows you to be an expert auction bidder for the ultimate savings on your luxury vacation.

Savings Tips:
• The trick is to search Priceline’s Express Deals for the lowest price being offered, subtract 5 percent to 20 percent and then use that number to make a Name Your Own Price bid.

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Travelocity

From Europe to Hawaii, Travelocity offers the best deals in travel all over the world.

Savings Tips:
• The exclusive Bargain Hunter ticket feature allows you to see the final cost of your booking without having to guess how any associated fees might add up.
• Check Travelocity’s promotions to see how you can save more with current coupons and an exclusive promo code.

BookIt

BookIt offers vacation packages, flights and hotels to popular destinations worldwide.

Savings Tips:
• Sign up for the BookIt newsletter and get a $50 credit instantly.
• Become a member at BookIt and gain access to the Rest Assured special feature, which guarantees your hotel rate is the lowest possible.

CheapTickets

There’s no beating around the bush here: CheapTickets offers discounted vacation packages and accommodations so you can travel on the cheap.

Savings Tips:
• Download the CheapTickets app for exclusive savings and deals.

October 25, 2016

Everything You Need to Know for Last Minute Travel Planning

Sometimes you just have to scratch when you have the itch. So if the travel bug has been biting lately, allow us to offer some tips. If your opportunity to get away from it all is quickly approaching, you don’t have to spend a small fortune to enjoy yourself. Last minute travel doesn’t mean spending all of your savings for a family outing. With savings from top notch stores and Cash Back on your purchases at Ebates, you’ll find great deals to get out the door and on the road! Here are our top tips on how to make the most of last minute travel plans.

Turn to Social Media

It turns out your bad habit might do you some good. Use your social media savvy to your benefit and find great deals on Twitter. Follow travel blogs and travel-related companies to get the latest deals delivered right to your feed. But these deals are often limited so don’t delay or you might miss out.

Escape Dry Land With Last Minute Cruises

Your off-the-cuff adventure doesn’t mean you have to be landlocked. Fulfill your love of the open sea with a simple and luxurious last minute cruise getaway. CruiseDirect has plenty of last minute offers from ports all over that will allow you to visit several destinations in one trip. Enjoy your time on the boat or escape to a new place when the boat docks for a unique experience.

Get First Dibs

Companies often spill the beans to newsletter subscribers first. Sign up for emails from your favorite travel sites to get the details on last minute vacation deals before they’re released to the general public. Travelocity and similar sites will alert you to money-saving promo codes and special offers so your morning email ritual could get you some early bird savings.

Off Season Means Big Savings

It’s no surprise that peak vacation times are going to cost more. If your last minute travel goes against the grain, you’re going to lock in some solid savings. That means an escape to Aspen is ideal in spring when the slopes aren’t exactly a hot spot. Your favorite destination may have plenty to offer when peak tourism traffic is down.

Look For Package Deals

Bundling your travel and accommodations not only make life easier, it can also spell out some decent savings. Hotels and airlines often partner and feature package deals designed to make your adventure stress free.

Do Your Own Sleuthing

Getting the best deals means cutting out the middleman. Nix the travel agent and go straight to the source for all-inclusive package savings. Empty rooms make all inclusive resorts exactly no money so many places will offer a steep discount for last minute vacation deals. Research the resorts in the area and give them a call to find out what deals they have available for your quick getaway.

Have Fun Wherever You Go

You don’t have to plan ahead to have fun at your destination. Groupon offers a great selection of activities for families and adults alike in cities all over the world. Catch a local sports event or take that whale watching trip you’ve been dreaming of all year. Whether you would like to try a new place to eat or you’re looking for a great spot for couples massages, you’ll find plenty to do in any city you’re visiting.

Scope Out Holiday Offers

You’re not the only one that wants to get out of dodge for the upcoming holiday weekend so look out for Memorial Day deals. Plenty of hotels are hoping you’ll pick them for your big escape so they’re likely offering something a bit extra. Whether they’re offering tickets to a local event, discounts at local restaurants or even multi-night stay savings, be on the lookout to make sure you’re saving on your last minute travel at Hotels.com. Business-friendly hotels are often harder to fill when corporations go on break, so you may find better hotel deals where there are empty meeting rooms.

Pack Accordingly

Last minute travel usually calls for a quick getaway. Grab a versatile weekender bag from Nordstrom and bring the essentials. Include pieces that can be dressed down or played up for a night out. Wear bulkier items on the plane and don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat for all of your outdoor excursions.

Keep it Local

If you’re on a tight budget, you don’t have to escape far. Last minute travel could mean a quick flight to a nearby city. Don’t overlook the idea of a simple jaunt to a neighboring city with your friends or family. You can even use a promo code for a hotel in your own city and hit up all of the tourist spots you’ve been meaning to visit. The proximity will keep travel expenses down while allowing you to still escape the routine and have a wonderful adventure.

July 1, 2016

Sandals Summer Vacation Giveaway

Ebates wants to help you get away to the destination of your wildest dreams. We’ve partnered with Sandals to give one lucky Ebates member the chance to win a 4-day, 3-night stay for two adults at the Sandals destination of their choice*, worth approximately $1,450!

All included. All unlimited. All the time!

As an award-winning hospitality company, Sandals makes it easy to book your dream vacation anywhere in the world. Prepare for your next adventure with Cash Back at Ebates on all-inclusive Caribbean resorts and vacation packages fit for an intimate getaway or a fun-filled family vacation.

Which destination would you choose?

Every Sandals location sits directly on a stunning beach, on six of the most gorgeous islands in a region famous for its endless white sand expanses, exquisite turquoise waters and romantic sunsets. Discover Jamaica’s warm reggae pulse, the Bahamas’ sophisticated beat, St. Lucia’s volcanic majesty, or Antigua’s exotic allure. Sandals has everything you need to make your escape.

How to Enter the Sandals Vacation Giveaway:

1. If you’re not already an Ebates member, join over 8 million other savvy shoppers who earn up to 40% Cash Back on almost everything they buy. Join Ebates and receive a $10 Welcome Bonus when you join for free today at www.ebates.com. *You must be an Ebates member to be eligible to win.

2. After you enter your Ebates email, you can earn extra entries for each type of entry. Comment, tweet, pin, follow us, like us, circle us — the more you do, the more entries you get! This sweepstakes ends on Sunday, July 31, 2016 at 11:59 PM PST. The winner will be randomly picked through Gleam, and will be posted on Facebook and this blog. Please be aware of the Giveaway Rules.

Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox, as the winner will have 24 hours to accept the prize before we will choose another winner.

Sandals Summer Vacation Giveaway

March 5, 2016

Top 10 Luxury Hotels in the US

U.S. News & World Report has released its annual Best Hotels in the USA rankings, putting all the information you need to plan your next fantastic getaway in one place. The U.S. News & World Report ranking methodology is the most comprehensive in the business. It ranks only the best of the best in luxury hotels, and bases its determinations on three important elements: hotel class ratings, guest ratings and industry awards and recognition. The U.S. News hotel awards are given out based not only on the highest industry accolades, but also on direct feedback from real people — so you can be confident the top 10 are the peak in both luxury and customer experience.

This list is not only a great resource for finding the luxury hotel of your dreams, but also for booking luxury travel on a budget. With Ebates, you can find special offers and a promo code for bigger savings, and get Cash Back on your booking. Luxury travel is within your reach at the best hotels in America!

1. The Langham, Chicago

Since opening in 2013, the Langham Chicago has rocketed to the top of many industry lists, earning five diamonds from AAA and five stars from Forbes Travel. This towering hotel on the banks of the Chicago River wows guests with its exceptional dining, accommodating staff and convenient location. Find your room today through Booking.com.

2. Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Hawaii

The beauty, culture and cuisine of Hawaii are perfectly showcased at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, which is the Big Island’s only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Travel Five-Star hotel. The exclusive Oceanfront Concierge Service and organic, farm-to-table restaurant keep guests coming back. Book today through Expedia!

3. The Jefferson, Washington, D.C.

The Jefferson, a member of the Preferred Hotels and Resorts portfolio, also appears on best-of lists from Conde Nast Traveler, Frommer’s City Guide and Travel + Leisure. Located just blocks from the White House and historic D.C. landmarks, the Jefferson is a small hotel with just 95 rooms. Standout features include award-winning dining at the three in-house venues, elegant décor and a rich sense of history. Find a great rate at Hotels.com.

4. Montage Kapalua Bay, Maui, Hawaii

The residences at Montage Kapalua Bay include all the amenities of a family beach house along with the sophistication of a modern luxury hotel. But that’s only part of the reason it was rated the best hotel in Hawaii by Travel + Leisure readers and is among U.S. News & World Report’s top five hotels in the United States. Sunset views are available from nearly every residence, and you can partake in adventures such as helicopter rides and luxuries such as a seaweed cocoon at the world-class on-site spa. Book through Expedia!

5. The Lodge at Sea Island, St. Simons Island, Georgia

Set in the resort town of Sea Island, Georgia, the Lodge has received a Conde Nast Traveler Gold award and a Travel + Leisure World’s Best award. The resort complex features three golf courses, five miles of private beach, a yacht club and more. Guests love the family-friendly atmosphere, spacious rooms and excellent hospitality. Find rooms through Booking.com.

6. Acqualina Resort & Spa on the Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Florida

Welcoming, personalized service defines the experience at this hotel, located about 11 miles north of Miami Beach. With ocean and bay views, four pools and 98 spacious and modern rooms, Acqualina is a distinct hotel in a popular travel destination. Travelers can’t get enough of this hotel, which explains why it was also included on the Conde Nast Readers’ Choice List and TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards in 2016. Get a great deal on a room through Expedia.

7. The Hay-Adams, Washington, D.C.

Take in views of the National Mall and the White House from this historic hotel, named for two of its former residents, journalist Henry Adams and Secretary of State John Hay. The Hay-Adams is known for its early American decor, dark wood accents, elegant guestrooms and a general air that’s steeped in history. Book through Hotels.com for a great deal.

8. Montage Deer Valley, Park City, Utah

As the only ski resort on the list, Montage Deer Valley holds its own in snowy Park City, where visitors can enjoy its ski-in, ski-out location and countless winter activities. The cozy rooms, featuring plenty of space and warming fireplaces, make this the perfect escape for winter lovers. But with kayaking adventures, access to hundreds of miles of hiking and a large outdoor pool, Montage Deer Valley is far from a seasonal stay.

9. Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa, Rancho Santa Fe, California

Situated about 30 minutes north of San Diego, Rancho Valencia has the element of seclusion that impresses and relaxes guests at the same time. The resort made it onto the 2016 Conde Nast Readers’ Choice List and Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards for good reason. Gorgeously appointed guest rooms, public spaces and a tequila bar give off a Mexican-hacienda vibe that charms guests throughout their stay. For a deal, try booking through Travelocity.

10. Primland, Meadows of Dan, Virginia

Primland is set on 12,000 rolling acres amid the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. And its accommodations are just as vast, with a choice among cottages, houses or rooms. But it’s days spent exploring the resort’s outdoor wonderland and evenings stargazing at the hotel’s observatory that are most appealing to all those ready to lose themselves in the meadows of southern Virginia.

March 3, 2016

19 Spring Break Survival Must-Haves

We know spring break couldn’t come any sooner and you’ve been dreaming about fun-filled days in the sun. But before you hit the road, set sail, or take flight to your spring break destinations, make sure you are prepared with this complete checklist of items to ensure a successful, stress-free trip. From hair care essentials to electronic accessories, you can find it all with Cash Back at Ebates and maybe even cut costs with a promo code or two.

Dry shampoo – A MUST when you get too busy site-seeing and partying to shower everyday
Sunblock
Lip balm with SPF – Because sun-burned lips are no bueno
Sleep mask – Especially good for camping when you don’t feel like waking up with the sun
Face cleansing wipes
Ear plugs – For spring breakers headed to concerts. Also, your crew may rise earlier or pass out later than you, so pack a pair to keep you in dreamland.
Folding water bottle – Easily conserves room in your bag for light packing
Water shoes – Beach hikes get treacherous.
Mobile charger
Fanny pack – For hands-free partying
Electronic key finder – Because things get misplaced in the middle of shenanigans
Ibuprofen
Sun hat
Mini flashlight – Outdoor evening concerts only become a situation when it’s time to use the port-o-potty.
2 swim suits – Because there’s nothing worse than having to slip into a damp suit. Brrr!
Cheap sunglasses – You are going to lose them. Just make peace with it now.
Snacks
Magazines/books – Kick it old school with paper and save the juice on your phone.
Small card games – They take up little space and are great for those one or two chill evenings you may need to recoup.

Editors’ Party-Rocking Picks

January 27, 2016

6 Can’t-Fail Valentine’s Day Trips

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! Have you figured out how to wow your sweetheart yet? If you’re fresh out of Valentine’s Day ideas, consider how awesome it would be to take a quick vacation. With all the remarkable deals on flights available right now, a romantic getaway has never been so incredibly affordable and is sure to impress. Grab your airline tickets on the cheap and head to one of these fabulous destinations.

Montreal, Canada

With US currency holding strong against the Canadian dollar, heading north for a getaway can mean big savings right now. Grab a flight into Montreal’s pleasantly small airport and get ready for a world-class weekend. With the ever-present French influence on the city’s culture, language and architecture, Montreal has a lot of the same charm as its European counterparts. Take a romantic stroll through the old part of the city or visit the world-class botanical garden and bio dome for a blast of warm air and a really gorgeous dose of nature. Treat your love to a romantic French language-speaking getaway without the cost of a transatlantic flight!

Las Vegas, Nevada

Want to go a little wild? With airline tickets often subsidized to bring visitors into Las Vegas, the time is always right to catch a flight to this super fun destination. Vegas.com always has incredible deals on shows, spas and 5-star restaurants to guarantee that this will be a dazzling escape. Whether you both want to try your luck in the casinos or you are headed straight for the chapel to elope, there’s always something unforgettable going on throughout the city. Although what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas, this will be the getaway weekend that you both remember for years to come.

New Orleans, Louisiana

With Mardi Gras already over by Valentine’s Day, the giant crowds and mayhem will have cleared out of The Big Easy and the city will have returned to its normal rhythm and jazz. New Orleans is perfect this time of year for a quick weekend getaway whether you’re looking for a foodie or a historical destination. Book a quiet B&B away from Bourbon Street and you’ll be amazed at the laid back and charming side of New Orleans. With year-round outdoor cafes, stone streets, horse drawn carriages and food so good you’ll think you’ve died and gone to heaven, New Orleans is filled with splendid surprises that will surely delight. Incredibly affordable and fun, head to New Orleans and you’ll be strolling around with a daiquiri in hand in no time.

Burlington, Vermont

Looking for somewhere to curl up in front of a fireplace with your favorite person? Tuck yourselves into a rustic getaway in snowy Vermont. With numerous daily flights to beautiful Burlington, you can easily get to one of Vermont’s wonderful attractions via a quick and very scenic drive. You can also check out gorgeous spots like Stowe and Woodstock if you’re in the mood for bustling little communities that know how to do small town relaxation right. Vermont’s mountains may be no match to the size of the peaks out west, but you’ll find that you can have just as much fun at a fraction of the cost. With lots of affordable lodging near the ski resorts in Vermont, you won’t have to go far to have a great time.

Todos Santos, Mexico

This quiet little town on the Baja California Peninsula is perfect for a special and affordable seaside getaway. Away from the early Spring Breakers and ruckus of Cabo, Todos Santos has become an artists’ enclave. Take a stroll around this quaint and historic little town. Plan a day trip and head up into the nearby mountains to check out the local pottery works or wait on the beach for the fishermen to bring in fresh fish for your dinner. Whether you are sitting in one of the many cafes listening to live music or head down to the nearby beaches to watch the release of baby sea turtles after the sun sets, you won’t forget Todos Santos long after you’ve left.

Savings-Friendly Staycation

Sometimes all you really need to reignite the romance in your relationship is a night out in your own town. Surprise your sweetheart with a staycation and get a fun, fresh perspective as a tourist in a new part of your city. With no airfare or long distance drive to pay for, you can splurge on booking an upscale room through Hotels.com and save bit on a fancy dinner with gift card deals from Restaurant.com. to appropriately pamper your love. Finally, check out that museum that you’ve been talking about for ages or visit Ticketmaster and book those concert tickets you know your sweetheart desperately wants. No matter where you go, the best part of your trip will be the wonderful quality time spent with someone you love.

Flowers and chocolate are holiday staples, but these Valentine’s Day ideas will make your celebrations sweeter than candy and the memories will last much longer than a bouquet. So go ahead, explore the world with your sweetheart and plan unique Valentine’s Day trips that won’t break the bank. Happy Valentine’s Day!

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

January 25, 2016

7 Girlfriend Getaways Your Besties Will Love

It may still be cold and stormy, but now is the perfect time to get a jump start on making spring travel arrangements. And if it’s been a while since you and your crew of besties have gotten together, consider a girls’ weekend getaway as the perfect way to catch up and make new memories! Groupon Getaways has amazing girlfriend getaways your entire wolf-ette pack will love at unbelievable prices with Cash Back at Ebates. We’ve picked seven charming lodgings to give you some girls’ getaway ideas and priced them per person based on a group of four fabulous BFFs.

Seascape Resort Condos – Galveston, TX

Price: $28.75 per night

Seascape Resort Condos occupy a quiet stretch of Galveston Island’s western shores. They’re surrounded by palm trees, rolling sand dunes, and the Gulf of Mexico. Popular pursuits here include kayaking, golfing, parasailing, shopping, and taking wildlife-viewing tours.

Siesta Key Bungalows – Siesta Key, FL

Price: $54.75 per night

A barrier island west of Sarasota, Siesta Key is sandwiched between Little Sarasota Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. Siesta Key Bungalows sit along the banks of Heron Lagoon, a narrow waterway in the middle of the mangrove-lined island. It’s a secluded spot where you can fish for snook and redfish from a private dock. Tucked away as it is, the property is still just a short drive from the popular Siesta Beach.

The Cabins at Healing Springs – Ashe County, NC

Price: $41.50 per night

In North Carolina in the late 1880s, if you had an ailment you were looking to cure, you might have wound up at Thompson’s Bromine and Arsenic Springs. The natural mineral springs, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, were thought to cure an array of conditions from poison ivy to indigestion. Since 1887, a hotel has stood on the property to cater to visitors—today, The Cabins at Healing Springs carries on the tradition.

Luxury Villas – Palm Springs, CA

Price: $57.42 per night

With this Getaway, you’ll stay in an upscale villa in Palm Springs. Perfect for a weekend of shopping, spa treatments, and enjoying the culinary mastery of nearby upscale restaurants and bistros. Two-bedroom units accommodate 4–8 guests and feature a sunlit, outdoor pool with views of Mount San Jacinto.

Daven Haven Lodge – Grand Lake, CO

Price: $32.63 per night

Outdoor adventure awaits! Just two blocks from the town of Grand Lake, Daven Haven Lodge’s cabins are convenient to hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in Rocky Mountain National Park. Each of the cabins has a unique layout, but all feature fully stocked kitchens, clean linens, and furnished patios.

Guadalupe River Houses – New Braunfels, TX

Price: $18.50 per night

The Guadalupe River flows just outside the naturalistic lodgings of Guadalupe River Houses, a cluster of private homes, log-cabin-style tree houses, and stylish suites near some of New Braunfels’ most popular attractions. You can spend your days fishing for bass and sunfish on Lake Dunlap, dining on authentic German cuisine in downtown New Braunfels, or exploring nearby Texas Hill Country.

English Inn – Victoria, BC

Price: $19.10 per night

Built in 1906, the recently renovated English Inn sits on 1.5 acres of well-tended lawns and gardens. Though you’ll be just a short stroll from the beach and near a path that leads to downtown, the estate is set in a quiet residential area that has a cozy, tucked-away-in-the-country feel–perfect for the low-key group who loves to watch movies and play board games after a long day of sightseeing.

Which one of these destinations would suit your #squadgoals this spring? Let us know in the comments below!

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Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

November 10, 2015

Enter to Win Booking.com’s $1K Hotel Credit Giveaway

Trust us. After the holiday, a little recharge will be in order. Let Booking.com and Ebates help you find your dream destination and take some of the sting off expenses with a $1,000 hotel credit giveaway! Here’s the rundown on everything your experience with Booking.com has to offer.

Daily Deals – With new specials posted daily, you can find last-minute hotel deals for any budget with no booking fees.
800,000+ Properties Worldwide – From the best hotels in Vegas to vacation rentals abroad, Booking.com has digs for every adventure across 20+ accommodation types in over 80,000 destinations in 220 countries.
Trusted Hotel Reviews – At Booking.com, there are no reviews over 12 months old which means you get only the most current hotel reviews from trusted users.
24/7 Customer Service – Booking.com knows that when you need help, you want it now. That’s why you can talk to a live agent in 42 languages around the clock to help resolve your matter quickly.

Choosing your vacation locale just got a little bit easier with Booking.com’s Destination Finder. Search by specific travel interests including shopping, hiking, sight-seeing and more. You’ll get results based on exactly how you want to spend your time away. Explore popular destinations and see what other travelers have to say about what the surroundings have to offer. You can rest assured that you will make an educated decision when booking your stay.

Culinary buffs, we’ve got your covered, too! Check out Booking.com’s Foodie’s Guide to the Globe to see the top destinations for those in pursuit of the perfect dish.

Enter Booking.com’s $1K hotel credit giveaway below!

How to Enter the Booking.com Giveaway:

1. If you’re not already an Ebates member, join over 8 million other savvy shoppers who earn up to 40% Cash Back on almost everything they buy. Joining Ebates is free and you’ll receive a $10 Welcome Bonus when you join today at www.ebates.com.

2. After you enter your Ebates email, you can earn extra entries for each type of entry. Comment, tweet, pin, follow us, like us, circle us — the more you do, the more entries you get! This sweepstakes ends on Tuesday, November 24, 2015 at 11:59 PM PST. The winner will be randomly picked through Gleam, and will be posted on Facebook and this blog. Please be aware of the Giveaway Rules.

Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox, as the winner will have 24 hours to accept the prize before we will choose another winner.

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Booking.com $1k Hotel Credit Giveaway

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

July 16, 2015

Top 20 Travel Apps for Your 2015 Trips

Got a mean case of the wanderlust? There’s no better time to indulge in adventure than Getaway Week at Ebates with Extra Cash Back on flights, hotels, even luggage!

But we know there’s more to planning your trip than saving money. It’s also important to find ways to make your getaways as convenient as they are memorable with some of the best travel apps at your fingertips. Whether you are a master planner or live to wing it, these top 20 travel apps will get you started on your journey, your way. From booking a last-minute room to finding the best dog parks around your destination, you can do it all with these top trip-planning travel guide apps.

1. TripIt – Forward all your confirmation emails for your flight, hotel, rental car and more to TripIt and it will create one seemless itinerary, which you can access from anywhere.

2. Postagram – Take a picture on your phone and Postagram will print it into a personalized postcard and even send it for you! No more tracking down stamps or mailboxes in unfamiliar places.

3. Wi-Fi Finder – Easily find free Wi-Fi where ever the road takes you so you can plug in your laptop and take care of a little business or check your email without going over your data limit.

4. Google Translate – Language will no longer be a barrier as you trot the globe with an expert translator in your pocket. Use your voice, camera, keyboard or handwriting to translate between 90 languages.

5. Gas Buddy – Never run out of gas and interrupt your epic road adventure. Gas Buddy finds nearest and cheapest gas stations so you can fill up and rev up in a flash.

6. OANDA Currency Converter – Save yourself the headache of looking up currency rates and converting in your head or with a calculator and use this handy app.

7. Hotel Tonight – Get the best last-minute hotel deals in major metropolitan areas with Hotel Tonight. You can book a room any time between right this minute to seven days ahead.

8. Gate Guru – Take over your terminal with Gate Guru. Frequent travelers love this app which gives them airport security wait times and airport amenities like food, shops and services.

9. Hipmunk – Browse flights, hotels, even Amtrak and Airbnb options and compare prices easily! You can also use “heatmaps” to find lodgings close to attractions like shopping, nightlife and more.

10. Seat Guru – Picky flyers, rejoice. Seat Guru offers seat-choosing advice and seat maps for your flight so you can get the best seat and the biggest bang for your buck.

11. PackPoint – Tell the app where you’re going, when, for how long and a little about yourself. You’ll get a detailed list of what to pack including types and quantities of clothing, gadgets and anything else you’ll possibly need.

12. OpenTable – A big part of travel is sampling local cuisine and OpenTable is perhaps the easiest way to do it. Search by location, see reviews and make reservations in a snap.

13. TripAdvisor – Find your dream destination based on trusted reviews and user pictures all while finding great airfares and hotel deals with comparison shopping. Helpful user forums will also answer your burning questions.

14. AroundMe – A simple, streamlined alternative to Yelp, AroundMe lets you find everything from banks to bars within walking or driving distance on an easy-to-use GPS map.

15. iExit – Another one for the road warriors out there, iExit tells you what’s ahead on the interstate including gas stations, restaurants and rest stops. It will also find you hotel deals if you need an extended rest.

16. BringFido – For those who take their furry best friends along for the trip, this app finds pooch-friendly hotels, the best dogs parks around your lodgings, even restaurants that will welcome four-legged patrons.

17. Cruise Finder – Easily compare cruises and explore ship maps to find the perfect stateroom for your needs. Cruise Finder gives you access to 12,000+ itineraries to over 25 destinations.

18. Green Globe – Travel consciously with peace of mind that you are doing your best to reduce your carbon footprint. Search a wide selection of sustainable resorts, hotels, conference centers, attractions and tour experiences.

19. Localeur – This super hip app is completely community fueled with local insiders weighing in on their favorite restaurants, bars, stores and more. Take tips from city experts, not just tourists passing through.

20. YPlan – Why plan when you have a personal event planner in your pocket? YPlan helps you discover the best events daily in San Francisco, New York and London with plans to expand.

Stay in the loop to hear about great deals and tips!

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

July 14, 2015

4 USA Destinations for a Perfect Summer Getaway

As we head into the summer months, friends, couples and families everywhere are wondering where to head for a summer getaway. Luckily for you, we’ve put together a list of four beautiful American destinations perfect for any travel group. And don’t forget to browse Ebates travel coupons and deals for more savings and Cash Back on all your travel needs!

Chicago

Chicago has a horrible (and accurate) reputation for its unbearable seven-month-long winters, however, few cities are as majestic as summertime Chicago. Stroll the river walk amidst the impressive skyline and renowned architecture or take a water taxi to save your walking legs. Explore heralded museums such as the Museum of Science and Industry, The Field Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago and the Shedd Aquarium.

Don’t leave without experiencing classic Chicago deep dish pizza, or taking in a ballgame at the historic Wrigley Field. If you want to balance trekking around the city with some R&R, take in one of Chicago’s many beaches and stare off into Lake Michigan with a cold drink in hand.

Portland

Portland, and the Pacific Northwest in general, experience more than their fair share of blustery gray days and rain but June to September (particularly July and August) brings the warmest temperatures and lowest amounts of precipitation. Portland is revered (and sometimes mocked) for its uniqueness, which means there’s no shortage of culturally stimulating activities to partake in.

Portland has dozens of karaoke bars and a serious focus on live music in general. But it wouldn’t be the Pacific Northwest without some coffee and a good read. Powell’s City of Books in Portland is the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world. If you’re not feeling as cerebral, take a hike in the Columbia River Gorge or check out one of the 58 active breweries within the city limits.

Asheville

If you’re looking for a quaint mountain adventure, few places in North America can offer the combination of culture, outdoors and quaint feel like Asheville, North Carolina.

The small-town layout lends well to the diverse ways one can spend a day. Get up early to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway and be back in time to eat lunch at one of the many excellent microbreweries. Walk off the food and brews by grazing the 8,000-acre backyard of America’s largest home, the Biltmore, and as many of its 250 rooms you can make it through. Those looking for a mild summer climate destination are well served heading to Asheville, with average summer temperatures barely exceeding 70 degrees.

Biloxi

For those looking for a more laid-back vacation complete with white sand, great fishing and higher temperatures, look no further than one of the country’s first settled communities (1699) in Biloxi, Mississippi.

Though Biloxi suffered extensive damage from Hurricane Katrina, its colonial, southern charm lives on with landmark sites like Jefferson Davis’ Beauvoir, the post-war home of the former President of the Confederate States of America. Many resorts and casinos have also been fully restored and when paired with the assortment of great golf course options in the area, Biloxi holds all the elements for a relaxed trip of play and leisure.

No matter where you decide to head this summer, be smart with your money and browse Ebates Travel & Vacations coupons to get the most out of your money.

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