Alaska - Alaska Coupon books?

I have found two:
Great Alaskan Toursaverr http://www.toursaver.com/
The Northern Lights Coupon Books http://www.alaska-discounts.com/Tours.html

My family is going up (4 adults and 2 kids) in June. We are staying with my brother in ANC, so we don't need any lodging. Which book might be better? Can they be bought locally in Alaska?

Duke

Never heard of the Northern Lights one, but you should be able to buy the Great Alaskan Toursaver online.

I haven't seen the Toursaver book yet, but I do like the Northern Lights book. It has coupons for tours/cruises/other tourist type stuff, but also has lots of coupons for restaurants and other things locals might find more useful. So your brother can probably make use of anything you don't use.

One thing though, the coupons for the tours/activites often are good for certain times of year (non-peak.) So if you are arriving at the end of June, it might not have as many coupons that are valid. You can buy it locally, and I'm pretty sure I've seen the Great Alaskan Tour Saver for sale in a gas station or Fred Myers.

I have found two:
Great Alaskan Toursaverr http://www.toursaver.com/
The Northern Lights Coupon Books http://www.alaska-discounts.com/Tours.html

My family is going up (4 adults and 2 kids) in June. We are staying with my brother in ANC, so we don't need any lodging. Which book might be better? Can they be bought locally in Alaska?

Duke

I've had both before.

And each is good. Northern Lights seems more geared to locals, however, with coupons for oil changes, fast food, and much more local interest. I do note, however, that it does have numerous coupons that Toursaver does not have.

You have a large group, and the savings from using the books can be quite significant. My recommendation is that you order of each, and review them. As most of the coupons are buy one get one free type of coupons, you will need three copies of your preferred book. After reviewing one of each, make additional purchases, and upon your departure from AK, leave them all with your brother. He may very well have use for the coupons you do not use.

I too have used both in the past. It really depends on what coupons are of more value to you. For example, last year Northern Lights worked better for me. This year, Toursaver will. Toursaver has a 2-for-1 flightseeing coupon form Talkeetna that Northern Lights doesn't have. That alone will save me $250.

Look at all the offers from each book and see which is best for you.

Also note that with toursaver, you must present the entire book when at each vendor. That is not true with northern lights.

Also note that if you are going later in the summer, you might be able to pick up a used one on EBay. In fact, if you are going after July 1st I would be willing to sell my toursaver at a discount depending on which coupons you might need.

John

Anyone can shed some light on what fare classses are availble for discount - Anc - Fai using Toursaver book?

Anyone can shed some light on what fare classses are availble for discount - Anc - Fai using Toursaver book?

I think it's just a straight 2-for-1 deal. I don't think you have to pick a particular fare class. Era's fare structure isn't what I would call complex.

I too have used both in the past. It really depends on what coupons are of more value to you. For example, last year Northern Lights worked better for me. This year, Toursaver will. Toursaver has a 2-for-1 flightseeing coupon form Talkeetna that Northern Lights doesn't have. That alone will save me $250.

Look at all the offers from each book and see which is best for you.

Also note that with toursaver, you must present the entire book when at each vendor. That is not true with northern lights.

Also note that if you are going later in the summer, you might be able to pick up a used one on EBay. In fact, if you are going after July 1st I would be willing to sell my toursaver at a discount depending on which coupons you might need.

John

John, I would definitely be interested in buying your coupon book if it has coupons for the Major Marine 1/2 day tours (out of Seward). Other than that we'll be spending all our time in Homer so would be interested in any coupons for that area. Please [contact me and i'll share additional contact info] We're going on July 22, 2009

John, I would definitely be interested in buying your coupon book if it has coupons for the Major Marine 1/2 day tours (out of Seward). Other than that we'll be spending all our time in Homer so would be interested in any coupons for that area. Please [contact me and i'll share additional contact info] We're going on July 22, 2009

Sharon, If the price is right and there are coupons left for Sitka, Juneau or Ketchikan, I would be interested in buying it from you. We are going the last week of the season (Sept.)so I won't be able to resell it. Contact me if you get it from John. There's more then one way to recycle. ;)
joe-debbie-fox@juno.com

If anyone has a book in their possession that they'd be willing to rent/sell to me during the 6/24-29 time frame, please contact me. Otherwise, I'll probably buy one myself and put into play here.

I　ｊｕｓｔ　ｂｏｕｇｈｔ　ａ　Ｎｏｒｔｈｅｒｎ　Ｌｉｇｈｔ　ｂｏｏｋ(a single car rental coupon was enough to justify the purchase price). I was really impressed by their customer service (they have one guy in their office who loves helping people use the coupons). Anyway, I'll be back from Alaska on June 29, after which I won't have any use for the coupon book, so anyone who's interested in it should PM/email me.

Am also in the market for coupon book. Spending five days in the Anchorage area, then a southbound cruise. Particularly interested in Talkeetna Helicopter tour of Denali, Kenai Fjords, Mendenhall Glacier and possible glacier landing in Juneau. Thanks.

Am also in the market for coupon book. Spending five days in the Anchorage area, then a southbound cruise. Particularly interested in Talkeetna Helicopter tour of Denali, Kenai Fjords, Mendenhall Glacier and possible glacier landing in Juneau. Thanks.

I would be interested in anyone wanting to split the cost of a book. I live in Anchorage, so could meet (or mail) any coupons.

I　ｊｕｓｔ　ｂｏｕｇｈｔ　ａ　Ｎｏｒｔｈｅｒｎ　Ｌｉｇｈｔ　ｂｏｏｋ(a single car rental coupon was enough to justify the purchase price). I was really impressed by their customer service (they have one guy in their office who loves helping people use the coupons). Anyway, I'll be back from Alaska on June 29, after which I won't have any use for the coupon book, so anyone who's interested in it should PM/email me.

Agree with moondog about customer service of Northern Lghts! Got the book via Priority USPS 2 days after order. One coupon for an excursion more than paid for the book.

Used several other copouns and decided that at the end of our trip we'd give it to someone who provided us excellent service. That person turned out to be a hotel front desk person. When I asked if she'd be interested in book - she said she was planning on buying one to give to visting family.

So it worked out for all!

I have the Northern Lights, only used 3 coupons [Avis, Kanai Fjords tour and a restaurant]. I am leaving anchoarge tomorrow ... would be willing to split the cost if anyone is interested, PM me.

I have the Northern Lights, only used 3 coupons [Avis, Kanai Fjords tour and a restaurant]. I am leaving anchoarge tomorrow ... would be willing to split the cost if anyone is interested, PM me.

I'm also interested in unloading my Northern Lights book. By the way, while I definitely think it is/was a good value, it's worth noting that many merchants I spoke with during my research phase played silly price games with me after I told them I had coupon(s). And one B&B owner went so far as to tell me that the coupon would have no effect on his final price.

ETA: Thrifty Car Rental was also especially annoying; they jacked up my daily rate and then claimed that it had a $65 value cap (since I no longer have the coupon in my possession, I can't verify whether or not they pulled a fast one on me; I didn't have time to argue when I picked up the car).

ETA: Thrifty Car Rental was also especially annoying; they jacked up my daily rate and then claimed that it had a $65 value cap (since I no longer have the coupon in my possession, I can't verify whether or not they pulled a fast one on me; I didn't have time to argue when I picked up the car).

As to your latter point, yes, the $65 cap is printed right on the front of the coupon, and the coupon does explicitly state that the discount is only available on "standard rates," which are only bookable by calling the local office directly (the phone number is right on the coupon as well). It's not available on Internet rates or other discounted rates.

As to your latter point, yes, the $65 cap is printed right on the front of the coupon, and the coupon does explicitly state that the discount is only available on "standard rates," which are only bookable by calling the local office directly (the phone number is right on the coupon as well). It's not available on Internet rates or other discounted rates.

Thanks for that bit info.

Thanks for that bit info.

Just to further clarify, the coupon is meant to be used in the off-season, when the $65 cap is impossible to hit (large SUVs are barely going for $65 per day then). The coupon's validity extends shortly into June until the big summer rush hits, at which point it is no longer valid. You sort of hit the state right when things were ramping up, and the "standard rate" goes from in the $30s per day to in the $80s per day. Good thing you didn't come a week later: the cheapest car in the entire city (all companies) vacillated between $110 per day and $299 per day... :eek:

The Avis coupon [Free day] is better ... booked ahead with a great rate for Anchorage downtown plus got a day taken off the rate when I picked up the car ... total cost $165 for 5 days (Mid June) ...

Good thing you didn't come a week later: the cheapest car in the entire city (all companies) vacillated between $110 per day and $299 per day... :eek:

Depends on when you book. I just returned from two weeks in AK. Booked my economy class rental car last August and paid $95/week plus taxes/fees = $125/week from Enterprise "off airport" on E. International Airport Rd. Only a $15 tip included taxi ride from the airport. If I had booked it even 2-3 months later, I would have paid at least twice as much.

I have gotten this rate the past three summers now, each time booking 10-11 months in advance.

John

The Avis coupon [Free day] is better ... booked ahead with a great rate for Anchorage downtown plus got a day taken off the rate when I picked up the car ... total cost $165 for 5 days (Mid June) ...

I made reservations with Avis and Thrifty over the internet, then called both local offices to advise them that I'd be using NL coupons, asked them to compute my post-coupon rates. (I didn't have the ability to study the coupon book ahead of time because I had it shipped straight to my hotel in Anchorage.) Thrifty came in with a lower total (by about $30), BUT I ended up paying $30 more than the Avis rate in the end. I'm willing to chalk this episode up as a learning experience.

Another car rental anecdote: I bumped into a couple of guys during my travels who rented a U-Haul for $60 per day (flat rate, unlimited mileage) and were using it as an RV.... seemed like a smart idea to me.

I just returned from Alaska and I'm interested in unloading my Northern Lights book too.

A Northern Lights coupon book for Alaska, with coupons (mostly "buy one get one free" coupons) for day cruises, kayaking trips, restaurants, fishing expeditions, etc. I used only 5 coupons(see the following) out of the book during my trip, so the vast majority of coupons are still in the book and valid through October 14, 2009 (http://www.alaska-discounts.com).

Kenai fjord northerwestern tour 2-for-1
Portage glacier cruise 2-for-1
Sealife center 2-for-1 admission
Anchorage native heritage center 2-for-1 admission (The book comes with two coupons, the other one is still in the book)
Pratt museum 2-for-1 admission (The book comes with two coupons, the other one is still in the book)

If anyone who's interested in it, feel free PM or email me.

I just returned from Alaska and I'm interested in unloading my Northern Lights book too.

A Northern Lights coupon book for Alaska, with coupons (mostly "buy one get one free" coupons) for day cruises, kayaking trips, restaurants, fishing expeditions, etc. I used only 5 coupons(see the following) out of the book during my trip, so the vast majority of coupons are still in the book and valid through October 14, 2009 (http://www.alaska-discounts.com).

Kenai fjord northerwestern tour 2-for-1
Portage glacier cruise 2-for-1
Sealife center 2-for-1 admission
Anchorage native heritage center 2-for-1 admission (The book comes with two coupons, the other one is still in the book)
Pratt museum 2-for-1 admission (The book comes with two coupons, the other one is still in the book)

If anyone who's interested in it, feel free PM or email me.

Welcome to FT. You would be best off posting this on EBay or Craigslist. You would get a MUCH broader audience.

Warning to all considering buying coupons. Some coupon books require that you have the ENTIRE book in your hand when you show up at the venders location.

The coupons alone are sometimes worth zero.

Does anyone have a used Alaska Tour Saver 2009 book they would consider unloading, trading, please PM me.
I only need the Renown tour/Kenai National Park Cruise coupon and then I could send the book back.
Thank you!

Does anyone have a used Alaska Tour Saver 2009 book they would consider unloading, trading, please PM me.
I only need the Renown tour/Kenai National Park Cruise coupon and then I could send the book back.
Thank you!

As I said to you on TA, you will probably do much better by looking on EBay. Anyone with a book would not want to part with it before their trip, anyone already finished with the book won't want it back but will want to sell it. There are no less than 13 toursaver books listed on EBay right now, one of whose auctions closes in less than 1/2 hour.

As was noted, you need the entire book, not just the coupon.

Bought one on Ebay. Thanks!

Oh wow. that is a good suggestion! My friend and her husband bought the discount book last summer, and used very few of the coupons. ]

I think the best deal is the River Cruise in Fairbanks. That is a fabulous event and definitely worth it!

I am looking for a northern lights coupon book. I have already searched eBay and didn't find any may be because the real season hasn't started yet. I am specifically looking for coupons for 26 glacier tour from Philips Cruises & Tours. We plan to take this tour in may end.

If anyone is looking to offload or share the cost of their book or just have these coupons to spare then email me at SeattleMariner56@yahoo.com

Thanks,

I am looking for a tourbook or other coupon book as well.

Quick question though - when you get the coupon book, can you still make reservations in advance? Or can you only use the coupon if you book it that day with that vendor?

Please email me if you have a book or know where I can get one:
mrnik2007@gmail.com

THank you.!!

I am looking for a tourbook or other coupon book as well.

Quick question though - when you get the coupon book, can you still make reservations in advance? Or can you only use the coupon if you book it that day with that vendor?

Please email me if you have a book or know where I can get one:
mrnik2007@gmail.com

THank you.!!

You can usually make reservations without having the book in hand (some vendors require the book number from the Toursaver book). The Northern Lights book has no book number.

I have not obtained my Toursaver book yet but I made a tour reservation last November for this coming July.

You don't "need" to book in advance, but it is strongly recommended. Most vendors limit the number of coupons they take per day or per season. And when that limit is reached, tough.

As was mentioned on the other posts, looking on EBay or Craigslist will be MUCH better than the relatively limited viewing here on FT.

I am looking for a northern lights coupon book. I have already searched eBay and didn't find any may be because the real season hasn't started yet. I am specifically looking for coupons for 26 glacier tour from Philips Cruises & Tours. We plan to take this tour in may end.

If anyone is looking to offload or share the cost of their book or just have these coupons to spare then email me at SeattleMariner56@yahoo.com

Thanks,

Not sure when you are going and I might have a Toursaver book that has that coupon or a similar one (haven't checked yet). But with Toursaver you need the entire book.

Hello,

I am going go alaska mid june, 2010 and need the coupons for Talkeetna AirTaxi and Denali Bluffs.

Let me know if anybody doesn't require those coupons and willing to sell the book at a discounted price. If somebody wants the book for other than these coupons, I can sell the book after I used it at a discounted rates.

Thanks,

Hello,

I am going go alaska mid june, 2010 and need the coupons for Talkeetna AirTaxi and Denali Bluffs.

Let me know if anybody doesn't require those coupons and willing to sell the book at a discounted price. If somebody wants the book for other than these coupons, I can sell the book after I used it at a discounted rates.

Thanks,

Welcome to FT.

If you are talking about Toursaver, you do indeed need the entire book. Since you are going relatively early in the season, chances are you would be better off buying the book and reselling it after you return than trying to buy a used one. You would need someone to be traveling in the next 2 weeks in order to have time to send it to you after they return.

Hello,

I am going go alaska mid june, 2010 and need the coupons for Talkeetna AirTaxi and Denali Bluffs.

Let me know if anybody doesn't require those coupons and willing to sell the book at a discounted price. If somebody wants the book for other than these coupons, I can sell the book after I used it at a discounted rates.

Thanks,

-------------------

When are you leaving and where are you? Maybe I can sell the book to you after my tripwhich ends on june 11. Let me know.

Hi,

I have Alaska Tour saver book and I will be using only couple of coupons. I will return by June 12th and if anyone interested we can make a deal.. Thanks!

Thanks for the reply.

I will be departing on Jun 12th and coming back on Jun 20 from PHL. So I guess, this won't work.

I have Northern Lights Coupon Book already. So this deal would be ideal for anybody travelling in July.

Regards,

Thanks for the reply.

I will be departing on Jun 12th and coming back on Jun 20 from PHL. So I guess, this won't work.

I have Northern Lights Coupon Book already. So this deal would be ideal for anybody travelling in July.

Regards,

I've used the toursaver books for several years - when I go in August, I pick up a used one on eBay. When I have gone as early as you, I've bitten the bullet, and bought new, selling later.

I am going through ANC July 4-10. I will be travelling alone this time. Any good coupons for a Seward tour (not buy 1 get one free) or car rental?

I am going through ANC July 4-10. I will be travelling alone this time. Any good coupons for a Seward tour (not buy 1 get one free) or car rental?

You can check out the coupons here:

Toursaver:
www.toursaver.com

Northern Lights book:
http://www.alaska-discounts.com/

Almost all the coupons are 2-for-1. Avis has a coupon for 1 free day but my understanding is that it is extremely difficult to use. I would not base my car rental decision solely on that coupon.

ok, I have bought both Tour Saver and Northern Lights coupon books. I am going to Alaska from Jun 12 - Jun 20.

Let me know if anyone is interested in these coupon books. I can sell it to you at discounted price for the people travelling after my vacation.

Thanks,

Not sure when you are going and I might have a Toursaver book that has that coupon or a similar one (haven't checked yet). But with Toursaver you need the entire book.

Thanks for your reply! I decided to buy a new Northern lights coupon book. I would be back from my trip on June 2nd and may be would post what all coupons I ended up using and if I want to sell the book.

Wish you all a safe and wonderful trip to AK!

Thanks,

Husband I will be in ANC next week for 1.5 days, and really only want to do one of those 1/2 day cruises... anyone have a left over or deeply discounted coupon they will not be using? I will pay your priority mail shipping :D

PM is best so I don't forget I posted this, LOL!!!

thanks!

I looked at both coupon book. Unfortunately, it doesn't have much for a single visitor (mostly buy-1-get-1-free).

Since others are soliciting selling/buying coupon books, would it be appropriate to as if someone want to "share a coupon" with me? (I don't have such a coupon yet, but I guess I can buy it off someone here)

I'm looking at taking the Kenai Fjord 8.5 or 9.5hr tour on July 6 at Seward... The cost per person is $143 or $169!

PM me if interested!

I am in Anchorage now and have been here for 5 days. I recommend the Northern Lights coupon book. It cost about $50 which is one half the cost of its competitor. I used the following coupons:

Talkeetna flight seeing tour of Denali @ 25% off for party of four. It was just my wife and I so I waited for another couple to show up and offered them to share the discount. It was about $50 per person discount.

I used a coupon for Salmonberry Tours for 2 for 1, saving $195.

Then used an Avis coupon for a free day in downtown Anchorage from the Avis manager Mr. Chris.

Then used a 2 for 1 in the Aurora show at the Performing arts ceter for a savings of $11.

So a good deal all around!

If anyone is looking to get rid of their book, I'll be in Anchorage pretty much the entire month of June. Would save on shipping costs at least.

I am in Anchorage now and have been here for 5 days. I recommend the Northern Lights coupon book. It cost about $50 which is one half the cost of its competitor.

Thanks for your input. However, the cost of the book is not as relevant as how much money you end up saving.

I am using the Toursaver this summer. I will save $230 on the Misty Fjords flightseeing, which is not in Northern Lights. So even though I pay $100 for Toursaver, just on that coupon alone I am saving a net of $130. I will be using other coupons as well.

In years past, sometimes I bought Northern Lights, sometimes Toursaver and one year I bought both.

The best advice for people is to look at the savings you will have with either book and buy the one that saves you the most money.

Just back from 11 days in Alaska---better than we imagined! I only used the following coupons from my TourSaver book:

Portage Glacier
SeaLife Center in Seward
Miller Landing Kayak in Seward
Talkeetna Air Taxi

As early as we went, using the coupons was not a problem. If you are going later in the season, I'd recommend reserving ahead so you are definitely able to use the coupon...usually they limit the number they take each day. The Kenai Fjords coupon is still in the book---I would highly recommend this tour--we were able to get two for one pricing through the military resort, so didn't use it. That coupon alone is worth $139.

I would be happy to sell the book for $50 + shipping.

Hi!
I may be interested in your Northern Lights Book. Thanks

Hi, My husband and I will be spending 10 days in Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula in July. We would be very interested in purchasing a used Alaska TourSaver book with the Kenai and Anchorage area coupons intact.

Thanks for your time!:p

My book is on its way to a new owner who contacted me privately. Thanks for your interest...maybe someone else will post one. If not, you can probably save enough money with the book to justify paying full price.

Back from Alaska last week. What a wonderful place, really!

We only used Kenai Fjords Tour coupon from our Northern Lights coupon book. All the others are still in the book. I am willing to sell this book for $30 + shipping obo.

We were not able to use the Glacier Landing coupon because of the size of our group, but I would highly recommend doing a Denali Glacier Landing.

Hello

I am interested in purchasing coupons (or entire book) from northern lights or alaska tour. At minimum I need 2 sets of coupons for the Kenai Fjords 2-for-1 6-hour boat trips.

We are a family of 4 so we may need 2 coupons and we are travelling end-June.

If you have 1 or 2 sets of Kenai Fjord valid coupons (or if you have 1 or 2 sets of partially used books) please let me know waht you have and how much you want. If it works I will be be happy to pay cash and pick them up. I live in the Seattle are (on the eastside).

Thx

I'm heading to Alaska the middle of July. I'm interested in buying any used book (or coupons) that someone's got left over.

Specifically looking for the Miller's Landing (Seward) 2 for 1 Bridal Veil Falls kayak tour, Miller's Landing 2 for 1 Full Day Paddle to Caine's Head State Park kayak tour, and the 2 for 1 Nenana Raft Adventures (Denali) 2 for 1 Denali Deluxe Excursion.

I'm heading to Alaska the middle of July. I'm interested in buying any used book (or coupons) that someone's got left over.

Specifically looking for the Miller's Landing (Seward) 2 for 1 Bridal Veil Falls kayak tour, Miller's Landing 2 for 1 Full Day Paddle to Caine's Head State Park kayak tour, and the 2 for 1 Nenana Raft Adventures (Denali) 2 for 1 Denali Deluxe Excursion.

Maybe you and I should buy a new book and split the coupons? i only need 1 ---kenai fjords trip 2 for 1.

Maybe you and I should buy a new book and split the coupons? i only need 1 ---kenai fjords trip 2 for 1.

If your travel dates don't overlap, splitting a book is a great idea. Toursaver has great discounts, but the purchase price is annoying. Most people only use a couple of coupons.

You can sometimes get a partly used book on ebay, but demand will outstrip supply until August, so the savings are likely to be modest. In other words, you're probably better off just each ponying up the $55 or so.

If your travel dates don't overlap, splitting a book is a great idea. Toursaver has great discounts, but the purchase price is annoying. Most people only use a couple of coupons.

You can sometimes get a partly used book on ebay, but demand will outstrip supply until August, so the savings are likely to be modest. In other words, you're probably better off just each ponying up the $55 or so.

How is the purchase price "annoying"? The company needs to contact a lot of vendors to see if they will participate, follow up, produce and market the book, etc, etc.

I find that the cost of both the Toursaver and Northern Lights books is reasonable, even at full retail prices. Toursaver generally has coupons that offer much greater savings than Northern Lights, so from a consumer perspective, it can be a better "deal." Denali flightseeing can save two people $250 or more. Misty Fjords flightseeing can save two people $230. Neither of these offers are in the Northern Lights book (Northern Lights has a Denali flightseeing coupon but it is for a party of 4 and only offers I think 25% off).

I ended up buying a used Toursaver and used Northern Lights for $75 total including shipping. My main coupons needed were Misty Fjords flightseeing in Toursaver, LeConte Glacier tour in Wrangell in Northern Lights and then a Kenai Fjords tour (in both books). Those three coupons will save us $540.

I am sure we will use a few other coupons (Avis <though I heard they are not receptive to accepting the coupon>, Sealife Center, a museum or two, maybe a food coupon or two in Northern Lights).

How is the purchase price "annoying"? The company needs to contact a lot of vendors to see if they will participate, follow up, produce and market the book, etc, etc.


I have never seen a "coupon book" priced above $50.

It would be interesting to see if this is actually the profit maximizing price. Many people say "$108, no way." Others, of course, share. I have no doubt that the author would sell MANY more books at a lower price. Whether these extra sales would lead to more total income, I have no idea.

I have never seen a "coupon book" priced above $50.

It would be interesting to see if this is actually the profit maximizing price. Many people say "$108, no way." Others, of course, share. I have no doubt that the author would sell MANY more books at a lower price. Whether these extra sales would lead to more total income, I have no idea.

Not sure how many years you have bought this book but I have bought one or the other or both coupon books every year for the past 5 years.

Actually, I think the number of books being sold is about maxed out. In fact, I would venture to say that if the publisher sold too many more books, customers would complain. I already heard of some of these complaints, but it is not too loud.

It is already to the point where if you don't book some tours or hotels months in advance, the vendors say, "Sorry, we have reached our limit of coupons for the (day/tour/season/etc)." Sure these are mostly the higher-end flightseeing tours and hotels. But those coupons make the book an especially good value.

I know I book my flightseeing tours months in advance (I booked Misty Fjords in November 2009, even before the book was published). I booked Denali flightseeing last year 6 months in advance as well since they only take one coupon per day. And when I went to Seward two years ago and checked into the hotel in late May (Hotel Seward), they said that they had already reached the maximum number of coupons that they would take for the entire season (again I booked months in advance).

So perhaps one reason the price is what it is - just what you said: if the price were much lower, too many books would be in circulation.

The downside of my planning so far in advance is that I can't take advantage of things that come up relatively "last minute." Like the Cabbage DO the end of August. I already had my plane tickets reserved last October for this coming August. I am flying to Kodiak the day that DO begins. But it just is not possible to make changes to award tickets with Delta with any ease. But the upside is that I get to travel to Alaska 2-4 times a year for $10/ticket round trip.

Many people say "$108, no way."

Well, honestly, people who say that are blooming idiots. If I *knew* I could pay $1,000 and save $5,000, I would be a fool to NOT do that. Same with the coupon book. If you knew you could pay $108 and save $500 (or save even $150), only a fool would say "no way." Their loss, my gain :D Everyone needs to do a cost-benefit analysis. If someone doesn't save at least $108, then sure it is not for them.

fti --

Yes, you are definitely correct that some of the merchants have pretty tight control over the promos (like, as you said, limiting redemption to one a day).

And you are wise to "plan ahead." I called one raft trip operator about 2 months ahead of a planned excursion and they said they were already full up for that time period at the discounted rate.

Perhaps the best long term solution is a lower priced book with a lower discount (not 2 for 1) that both merchants and consumers would be comfortable with.

In the meantime, it's definitely wise to plan ahead and -- share a book!

BTW, I've heard rumors that the author is thinking of changing his system and issuing an "ID card" with the book that would have to match your name. This would eliminate sharing, and the resale market.

I just got back from Alaska - great trip! I have a used NL book. It would be cheaper for postage if I just sent the coupons you need instead of the whole book. Please send me private message to let me know what you need. We can work out payment through Pay Pal.
The coupons I used are:
Alyeska Tram
Major Marine Prince William Sound
Alaska Railroad Anchorage to Seward
Matanuska whitewater rafting
Seward Sea Life Center (but there is still a bogo for admission plus behind the scenes ($35) and for the encounters).

Hi,

I am just back from Alaska after a week of Vacation.

I have both Northern Lights and Tour Saver coupon books. Tour Saver is ONLY used for "ElDorado Gold Mine Tour" in Fairbanks. So I can say it's unused. We used northen lights for couple of Hotels and trips. Some of them have multiple coupons so you can still use them.

Please let me know if anybody is interested in those books. I can send you both for reasonable price.

Thanks,
Yarleey.

Hi,

I am just back from Alaska after a week of Vacation.

I have both Northern Lights and Tour Saver coupon books. Tour Saver is ONLY used for "ElDorado Gold Mine Tour" in Fairbanks. So I can say it's unused.

You can say that again. I took the El Dorado Gold Mine tour last year and I would never go again...even if it were free. A 2 hour "tour", one hour of which is spent trapped in their gift shop. We tried to walk back to the entrance (50 yards max) and were shooed back by one of their employees. Never again. This place screams TOURIST TRAP.

I would have been interested in your books but I just got my used ones in the mail today and got them for less than half price, shipping included.

It would be cheaper for postage if I just sent the coupons you need instead of the whole book.

The problem with that is often I pass through a town and say, "I wonder if there is a food coupon for a place here." Or something like that. So personally I like to have the entire book. But I already have mine, so I would not be interested in yours!

BTW, I've heard rumors that the author is thinking of changing his system and issuing an "ID card" with the book that would have to match your name. This would eliminate sharing, and the resale market.

Where did you hear this? From one of the vendors in the book?

It would depend on whether the vendors would check the ID card or not, but hard to know ahead of time so most people would not chance it.

I can send the whole book too if that's what people prefer, just let me know

I can send the whole book too if that's what people prefer, just let me know

You might want to post an ad on Ebay as well if you want to reach to a larger audience. I did the same and my book was gone in no time.

Hi All-
Am Going to Anchorage and Seward area in August. Didn't have a book last time I was there and would love to buy a used one for this trip. Please let me know if anyone has one available. Anne from Pa.

Annelis and anyone else interested:

I have a Northern Lights book that is good through 10/14/2010 that still has a lot of life left. I wound up not using any of the Alaska Railroad coupons I planned to, or any of the car rental coupons. I used a few of the hotel coupons and some dining coupons, but on the whole there are a ton of restaurant ones for the Anchorage/Wasilla region and lots of museum/attraction and tour boats ones like Major Marine and Prince William Sound.

I would recommend a rafting trip on the Kenai, and the Resurrection Bay only vs. full Kenai Fjords tour if you're also doing Prince William Sound.

Email me on Yahoo to Jimstacy68 if you're interested.

Hi,

I am just back from Alaska after a week of Vacation.

I have both Northern Lights and Tour Saver coupon books. Tour Saver is ONLY used for "ElDorado Gold Mine Tour" in Fairbanks. So I can say it's unused. We used northen lights for couple of Hotels and trips. Some of them have multiple coupons so you can still use them.

Please let me know if anybody is interested in those books. I can send you both for reasonable price.

Thanks,
Yarleey.
Yarlee, do you still have the books? would like to buy them from you if you do.

I am planning a trip for a couple of friends , in early Sept. to ANC , Seward and Denali...very interested in a coupon book that has 2 for 1 on Kenai boat tours , Denali tours , Mahay's boat , car rental , or other discounts. Please connect if you have one for sale . Thanks,

I am planning a trip for a couple of friends , in early Sept. to ANC , Seward and Denali...very interested in a coupon book that has 2 for 1 on Kenai boat tours , Denali tours , Mahay's boat , car rental , or other discounts. Please connect if you have one for sale . Thanks,
Please see my post at
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/alaska/1108444-great-alaskan-tour-saver-book-2010-a.html.

If you are still interested please pm me

I am going to Alaska in early September and need a Kenai Fjord Tours 2for1 coupon. Let me know if anyone still has the book. THanks

I am planning on selling my Toursaver and Northern Lights books on EBay. I will be returning on Aug 31. Both books have some coupons missing. Retail value of both books is $150 plus shipping. I am willing to let them go for $75 total including shipping.

I have a Northern Lights discount coupon book for this year. PM me with what you're interested.

Coupons we are for sure using later this month:

Kenai Fjords 6hr boat tour (11:30a)
Knik Glacier Tours 4hr jet boat
Mahay's Riverboat Service - three rivers tour
Palmer Musk Ox Farm (both coupons are or will be used)
The Reindeer Farm (same comment)
AFishunt Charter Halibut + camping/RV park coupons
RW's Fishing Silver Salmon charter + camping/RV park coupons
Alaska Sealife Center (only the 2:1 basic admission is being used)
Alaska Railroad Anchorage--> Whittier was given away already

Major Marine Tours - one of the coupons was also given away, but I'm not sure what it was for. There is still one in the book for the 1/2 day Kenai Fjords Wildlife cruise ($69 value) and the 3 hr "Bear Glacier Tour" ($59 value).

I also have a brand new, unused 2010 Milepost if there's any interest in that.

Please feel free to PM me through FT.

Von

Hi, I saw that some people posted regarding the Toursaver book. I only need one coupon from it (that I know of). Do you still have it? Do you have the coupon for the Mt Roberts Tramway in Juneau page 123? Thanks!

Any suggestions on what highlights there are for me to check out in Alaska (Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway)?

p.s. if you have a Seattle Tourbook, please let me know. Again, I only need 1 coupon out of that one too. Thanks! :-)

Hi, I saw that some people posted regarding the Toursaver book. I only need one coupon from it (that I know of). Do you still have it? Do you have the coupon for the Mt Roberts Tramway in Juneau page 123? Thanks!

Any suggestions on what highlights there are for me to check out in Alaska (Juneau, Ketchikan and Skagway)?

p.s. if you have a Seattle Tourbook, please let me know. Again, I only need 1 coupon out of that one too. Thanks! :-)

Since the savings on Mt. Roberts Tram is <$30, I am not sure it is worth it to use the Toursaver unless you get the book basically for free. You must have the entire book with you when obtaining the discount.

Waiting for my TourSaver book to arrive for our trip next week! Can't wait - well worth the $100. Already booked Talkeetna Air Taxi, Major Marine Kenai Fjords 6 hr Tour, and Ninilchik COMBO Fishing (they let me pay difference in price from just the all day Halibut trip!) Upsetting though that some of the vendors had already reached their max for the coupons - like Kenai Fjords/Prince William Sound boat tours....but...just an FYI for future reference...Major Marine WILL honor the full day tour coupons that Kenai/PWS will not!

Waiting for my TourSaver book to arrive for our trip next week! Can't wait - well worth the $100. Already booked Talkeetna Air Taxi, Major Marine Kenai Fjords 6 hr Tour, and Ninilchik COMBO Fishing (they let me pay difference in price from just the all day Halibut trip!) Upsetting though that some of the vendors had already reached their max for the coupons - like Kenai Fjords/Prince William Sound boat tours....but...just an FYI for future reference...Major Marine WILL honor the full day tour coupons that Kenai/PWS will not!

Welcome to FT.

Most vendors can not afford to accept unlimited numbers of Toursaver coupons, which is understandable. Actually 3 years ago, a hotel in Seward told me when I checked in during my visit in May that they had already accepted all the 2-for-1 coupons for the season that they could.

Note too that if a vendor says "no" when you try to pre-book, you can always try again the day of a tour. If the tour is not full, it is very possible that they will accept the coupon after all since getting one paid fare is better than getting none.

OK,, I am new at posting on this site, so please bare with me as I ask my questions.

The wife and I are going to Alaska the first of Sept. for a cruise. We are going to be there in Anchorage on our own for the first couple of days. I have been looking for extra excurision to do there in alaska, but I have no idea at what I am looking at or for. I would like to ride the rail trains and maybe go on a mini (3hr) cruise tour. Is there anyone who has some good suggestion on what we should do while we are there. :D

OK,, I am new at posting on this site, so please bare with me as I ask my questions.

The wife and I are going to Alaska the first of Sept. for a cruise. We are going to be there in Anchorage on our own for the first couple of days. I have been looking for extra excurision to do there in alaska, but I have no idea at what I am looking at or for. I would like to ride the rail trains and maybe go on a mini (3hr) cruise tour. Is there anyone who has some good suggestion on what we should do while we are there. :D

Where does your cruise start - Seward or Whittier? When do you arrive into Anchorage (date and time?) and what date does the cruise depart? That will give us a better idea in how to help you.

Also, what are you interested in? Hiking? Fishing? Museums? Glaciers? Shopping? Culture?

Where does your cruise start - Seward or Whittier? When do you arrive into Anchorage (date and time?) and what date does the cruise depart? That will give us a better idea in how to help you.

Also, what are you interested in? Hiking? Fishing? Museums? Glaciers? Shopping? Culture?

We are leaving out of Whittier on the 11th of sept. , although we are going up to anchorage on the 6th for some extra time on our own. We are looking more at Glaciers, Shopping, flightseeing, ect... we are not hikers or fisherman type. Thanks for your help :)

We are leaving out of Whittier on the 11th of sept. , although we are going up to anchorage on the 6th for some extra time on our own. We are looking more at Glaciers, Shopping, flightseeing, ect... we are not hikers or fisherman type. Thanks for your help :)

I am not sure if Denali NP interests you but the colors should be phenomenal at that time of year. And the moose rut might be something you could see there.

Do you already have a car reserved? Do you want to walk on a glacier?

When on Sep 6 do you arrive? Maybe something like this:

Sep 6 arrive Anchorage, overnight
Sep 7 drive to Denali, stopping inTalkeetna for lunch (stop in Anchorage or Wasilla for supplies - you need to take all your own food, drink and water into Denali NP on the shuttle bus the next day)
Sep 8 take shuttle bus (NOT tour) to Eielson or Wonder Lake. My preference is to book a shuttle to Wonder Lake. You can always get off at Eielson if it is cloudy, you are tired/bored/etc. This shuttle MUST be booked in advance.
Sep 9 drive toward Palmer and the Matsu Valley. Lots to do/see including Wasilla (Iditarod HQ), Independence Mine, Muskox Farm in Palmer.
Sep 10 glacier hike with Mica or Nova guides, drive to Anchorage, return car
Sep 11 take early enough transportation (train I think?, or a shuttle service) to Whittier, take Prince William Sound glacier tour before boarding your cruise. This will get you a lot closer to glaciers than anything on your cruise

Another option is to head to Seward instead or as well. If you did it as well, it would mean either an expensive one-way car rental with Avis or a pricey taxi from Seward to Whittier ($200+). On Sep 9 drive back to Anchorage and return the car, Sep 10 early train to Seward, 11.30am Kenai Fjords NP boat tour (6 hours). Sep 11 you can see Exit Glacier or Sealife Center before taking the transportation to Whittier (contact PJ's Taxi). If you leave Seward early enough, you will also be able to take the PWS tour in Whittier.

If you drove, then Sep 9 for sure drive to Girdwood (a shorter drive on Sep 10). Sep 10 continue to Seward, 11.30am Kenai Fjords tour, Sep 11 you can see Sealife Center or Exit Glacier on your own in the morning, leave Seward early enough to get to Whittier for the PWS tour. Note that the ONLY option to rent a car in Anchorage and drop in Whittier is Avis.

A quick check showed:
Avis pick up Anchorage Sep 6, drop off Whittier Sep 11 costs $735 (!)

Alamo pick up Anchorage Sep 6, drop off Anchorage Sep 9 costs $136 then a two-day car rental with Avis pick up Anchorage Sep 9, return to Whittier Sep 11 costs $350, for a total of $486.

I think $350 for the 2-day car rental is a great use of your time even though it sounds expensive. If you took the train to Seward, that is $75/person one way then you still need to get from Seward to Whittier. With the car, you can get BOTH the Kenai Fjords tour AND the Prince William Sound tour. Kenai Fjords emphasizes marine wildlife though they stop at a glacier for about 1/2 hour. Prince William Sound emphasizes glaciers. Both have 2-for-1 coupons in Toursaver and/or Northern Lights books, but you want to check with the operators before you buy a book to see if they still have availability for using the coupons. Most operators limit the number of coupons they accept in any season or on any day.

The only thing I do not recommend is driving from Anchorage to Seward in one day. Too many variables could make this trip a very long one - road construction, accidents, mudslides, slow RV's, etc, etc.

If you want to see the interior I would take a train to Denali and skip the rental car. Royal Celebrity Tours has a 2 for 1 offer that will bring you close to Denali. It included the train and lodging for 1-3 nights. All the trains are domed and have food service on the 1st level, also they are not that full since they caters mostly to cruise traffic. My Dad took the trip when he visited and then I did it when my sister visited. If you take the trip to Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge it's near Talkeetna and you could then do a flight seeing tour.

The trip to Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge brings you closer to Denali

Here's the link http://www.princesslodges.com/alaska_rail_tours.cfm

Also if you haven't booked your tickets or if you can change them, fly into Fairbanks spend the day and then take one of the trips to Anchorage. Spend a day in Anchorage and on the day to Whittier I would do the glacier tour FTI recommended.

I would hate to be at Denali without a car for several reasons.

1. lodging near the park entrance is more expensive than lodging in Healy or near Carlo Creek and few lodging places offer transportation if they are not in "Glitter Gulch" which is the area just outside Denali NP where all the cruise passengers monopolize

2. You can take earlier shuttle buses into the park by having your own transportation.

3. You can drive the first 15 miles of the park road later in the evening if you have your own car. Very common to see moose in this stretch, though I have also seen other animals including a coyote and caribou. There have been reports of wolf and lynx sightings in this area as well.

4. I have never found the train to be cheaper than rental car + gas but then again I book my rental cars months & months in advance when the rates are very low (I already have my rental car for June 2011 booked at $120/week including all mandatory fees).

But many people survive Denali without a car. Just not the type of un-flexibility that I want when going there.

Hey,, Thanks for all the reply on flyertalk. Wow, I didnt expect all of this good advice. fti, you have gone out of your way to help, not only me but all others on this site. My hats off to you ^. To tell you what I have planned is getting to anchorage on the 6th. The plane lands at 7 p.m.. I have a car reserved with alamo for 4 days at a cost of $164 w/tax. Hotel reserved in anchorage for 4 nights (6,7,8,9). Then we will move into the hotel provided by the cruise line. There we will spend Fri. night before boarding the motor coach the will take us up to MCKINLEY PRINCESS LODGE where we will stay the night. The next day they take us to DENALI, where we will stay for the night. On the final day of the tour we will board the DENALI EXPRESS TO WHITTIER. There we will board the ship.

I have purchase a Toursaver with only 4 coupons missing off E-bay for a price of $30, which I felt was a fair price. The missing coupons are the ones that I have no interest in. So hopefully I can get at least $30 worth of saving out of the book. I thinking of driving to Seward for the Kenai Fjiords cruise (which is the only one left at that time, being that we are not going to be there on a weekend), then stopping at Alaska Sealife Center on the way back to anchorage.

I already my reservation made at the hotel in anchorage, and got a very fair price on it. So I dont want to have to go hotel hopping, I am not one who likes packing and unpacking every day. I am thinking of going on a alaska railroad tour on one of our days in anchorage. But without having the book in my hands at this time (its being shipped today), I dont want to "count my chickens before the hatch". In other words making plans only to find out that the coupons needed for the event will be expired. But I am sure I will find lots to do in the book.

Next I need to work on our days spent in Vancouver. When we get off the ship in Canada, we will be staying there a couple of days before going home.

fti, again I want to thank you for your help. :)

Thanks for the update. To each his own, but I really do think you are missing out on a lot of Alaska by basing yourself in Anchorage for 4 nights. There is just not enough a days' drive from Anchorage to keep you busy for that long unless you love cities, museums, traffic, and shopping. Or you will end up with long travel days to somewhere and back the same day. It is a common mistake for first-timers to Alaska unfortunately.

And I travel around Southcentral Alaska a lot and rarely pack and unpack, and certainly not every day. I leave my suitcase in the car and I just pull out the few things I will need for the night and put them in my daypack. The only time my suitcase comes into the hotel is for major repacking or when I do laundry.

Thanks for the update. To each his own, but I really do think you are missing out on a lot of Alaska by basing yourself in Anchorage for 4 nights. There is just not enough a days' drive from Anchorage to keep you busy for that long unless you love cities, museums, traffic, and shopping. Or you will end up with long travel days to somewhere and back the same day. It is a common mistake for first-timers to Alaska unfortunately.

And I travel around Southcentral Alaska a lot and rarely pack and unpack, and certainly not every day. I leave my suitcase in the car and I just pull out the few things I will need for the night and put them in my daypack. The only time my suitcase comes into the hotel is for major repacking or when I do laundry.

I have to echo FTI's advice on this one, understanding that it is your trip and your travel plans. Also keep in mind that Alaska is pretty fast and if you stay planted in Anchorage, you will potentially have a lot of windshield time getting to the places you may be so inclined to take in.

Our first trip to Alaska back in 2006 we made that choice as well, and ran ourselved ragged on the three or four days we had available to see and to things. We did a wildlife/whale tour out of Whittier, a "day trip" to Seward and Kenai Fjords NP (Exit Glacier) and a fishing charter out of Soldotna. LORD, knowing what I know now about travel in Alaska and my more recent trip planning, I'm tired just typing that.

Perhaps you will plan to do more localized stuff in and around Anchorage, so it won't be a big deal to you.

I have to echo FTI's advice on this one, understanding that it is your trip and your travel plans. Also keep in mind that Alaska is pretty fast and if you stay planted in Anchorage, you will potentially have a lot of windshield time getting to the places you may be so inclined to take in.

Our first trip to Alaska back in 2006 we made that choice as well, and ran ourselved ragged on the three or four days we had available to see and to things. We did a wildlife/whale tour out of Whittier, a "day trip" to Seward and Kenai Fjords NP (Exit Glacier) and a fishing charter out of Soldotna. LORD, knowing what I know now about travel in Alaska and my more recent trip planning, I'm tired just typing that.

Perhaps you will plan to do more localized stuff in and around Anchorage, so it won't be a big deal to you.

OK, I have changed my plans. I am now only going to stay 2 nights in anchorage w/ tours and then go to Seward for two nights w/tours berfore coming back into anchorage for the tour & cruise. Thanks for all the advice in helping my trip go as smooth as a baby's bottom.

Welcome to FT.

Most vendors can not afford to accept unlimited numbers of Toursaver coupons, which is understandable. Actually 3 years ago, a hotel in Seward told me when I checked in during my visit in May that they had already accepted all the 2-for-1 coupons for the season that they could.

Note too that if a vendor says "no" when you try to pre-book, you can always try again the day of a tour. If the tour is not full, it is very possible that they will accept the coupon after all since getting one paid fare is better than getting none.

Thanks for letting me know about this Alaska tour saver coupon book. I got on off e-bay for $30 and saved OVER $1500 on all of our tours.... Well Worth the Money....

Does anyone have the 2011 book yet? I haven't bought one yet but will probably get one later this summer since our trip is not until September. But, in the meantime I was wondering if anyone could tell me what the coupon code is for the Denali Princess Lodge. There is still availability to use the coupon now, but if I wait until I get a used book later, there might not be.

Anyone able to share this information for 2011?

Thanks

Does anyone have the 2011 book yet? I haven't bought one yet but will probably get one later this summer since our trip is not until September. But, in the meantime I was wondering if anyone could tell me what the coupon code is for the Denali Princess Lodge. There is still availability to use the coupon now, but if I wait until I get a used book later, there might not be.

Anyone able to share this information for 2011?

Thanks

Which book? There are two - Northern Lights (alaska-discounts.com) and Toursaver (toursaver.com). All offers from both are clearly stated online. Most companies don't require the book number of the Toursaver book in order to make a reservation (though a few do). So most likely you could make the reservation without having the book in hand. And there is a code for each book, but not for each coupon. And since each book has a unique code/book number, having someone share their book number won't help you unless you show up with their book in hand when you arrive.

Which book? There are two - Northern Lights (alaska-discounts.com) and Toursaver (toursaver.com). All offers from both are clearly stated online. Most companies don't require the book number of the Toursaver book in order to make a reservation (though a few do). So most likely you could make the reservation without having the book in hand. And there is a code for each book, but not for each coupon. And since each book has a unique code/book number, having someone share their book number won't help you unless you show up with their book in hand when you arrive.

Having never seen one of these books, not sure what number the reservation will need. I'm leaning towards Northern Lights. Since the entire book is not needed when using the coupon, just the coupon, I'm surmising that each coupon must have something like an offer code on the coupon. The Princess reservation desk told me that I need the code when I make the reservation in order to take advantage of the offer.

So, if anyone is able to assist with providing this number from the Northern Lights book, I would definitely appreciate it. Thanks.

So, if anyone is able to assist with providing this number from the Northern Lights book, I would definitely appreciate it. Thanks.

You got the same answer on Trip Advisor. You should know, being on FT, that if you get the wrong answer, hang up and call again.

I'm surmising that each coupon must have something like an offer code on the coupon.

Can't speak to Princess, but the company I work for has a coupon in the Northern Lights book that doesn't have a particular code.

Of course, we're a smaller company, so when someone calls and asks about "the Northern Lights coupon," it's pretty obvious what they're referring to.

Agree with fti--call Princess back and try again.

Folks,

We've deleted several posts from this thread from people offering to buy and sell coupon books from/to each other. The rules you agreed to when you registered here state that FlyerTalk is not a marketplace and that this type of posting is not allowed. Further posts of this nature will result in your accounts being suspended.

Thank you for your cooperation.

l'etoile
sr. moderator

You got the same answer on Trip Advisor. You should know, being on FT, that if you get the wrong answer, hang up and call again.

Best advice on FT!

Just got back from Alaska using the Northern Lights discount book. I bought two books for a 4-person trip. Only a few pages were used. On one of the book, I used only two - major marine tours. But, the book paid for itself already. To me, basically, the book is useful for the museums, tour companies especially day cruises.

Does anyone have the '12 books? From postings in this thread years ago, is it still necessary to have the entire Toursaver book at the merchant?
I'm only looking for one coupon out of each book and would hate to have to lug the whole thing around.

Does anyone have the '12 books? From postings in this thread years ago, is it still necessary to have the entire Toursaver book at the merchant?
I'm only looking for one coupon out of each book and would hate to have to lug the whole thing around.

You need to carry the entire Toursaver book.

Which coupon do you need from Northern Lights? PM me with your andwer.