Jun 5, 2008 8:15 pm US/Eastern
Turn Your Stay-Cation Into A Vacation
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
Airlines are cutting back on flights, and in some cases, dropping cities completely. They're trying desperately to stay in the air while paying soaring gas prices. Analysts say Miami and Fort Lauderdale won't see many of those cuts--but we, like everyone, will pay through the nose to fly.
"We'll likely see higher fares across the board as airlines do everything possible to cover the rising cost of fuel," said Matt Chaifez.
"That's why we brought one bag," said traveler Jamie Smith, as she waited at Ft. Lauderdale International Airport. "We didn't want to pay for the addition."
The Smith family is flying on miles this time—but they're well aware that if they don't shop around they could be grounded.
"My boyfriend and I are going to New York in August and I've been searching and searching, and all the prices are skyrocketing," said Smith.
Travel agent Toni Chiles says there are deals out there, but you have to be flexible with your travel days and hours. For example: If you fly to New York off hours, you can save a bundle.
"It's $394 as opposed to the early morning at $199," said Chiles.
Packaging your flight, hotel and rental car saves money too--and be willing to accept a little less. A week for 4 in Los Angeles can go for $3,600, but if you go on off-hours and stay a little out of the way, only a few miles, it's $2374. This saves you more than $1,200.
Here are some of the most common websites for travel that you can check out:
http://www.kayak.com/http://www.sidestep.com/http://www.orbitz.com/http://travelocity.com/But if you still feel you might not be getting the best deal, you can always check with a travel agent, as they've got many tools they can check to make sure you're getting the best deal.
Click here to submit your favorite travel deal websites.
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