Flights have gotten a lot more expensive in the last couple of years. Here’s some ways to save:
Dare to Compare. Vacations allows you to search several other sites, including Expedia, Kayak, Orbitz and low-cost airlines like Southwest.
Wednesday’s the Day. Flights in the middle of the week are often cheaper than weekend flights. Plan your trip to leave and return on a Wednesday.
Avoid Peak Season. If possible, avoid the peak seasons around summer and holidays. Flights to popular destinations can double or triple in price during these times.
Check the Airline’s Website. Sites like Expedia are very convenient for comparing prices. But sometimes these sites charge a fee, even if they say “no booking fees.” So always check the fare on the airline’s website before you book.
Loyalty Programs. Whenever you fly, sign up for that airline’s frequent flyer program. It’s free to join and eventually you could earn a free flight or an upgrade to 1st class.
Bag Fees. Southwest is the only major airline in the US that doesn’t charge a fee for checking bags. Checking two bags on a round trip costs as much as $100! So, pack it all into a carry-on. This site will tell you how to make it fit.