While a virtual visit may not replicate physical reality entirely, it does provide an opportunity to explore destinations you haven't visited yet or places where you'd rather not haul your suitcase. The best part: Most of these experiences are free.

While the average commission range for many big online travel agents is 15-30%, some smaller and more niche OTAs offer lower prices – sometimes as low as 4%. It's common for commission rates for properties on the same OTA to vary based on their region and property type.