Locate a computer with an internet connection. In order to find good deals on vacations, a little patience and Internet savvy is required. Determine where you want to go and begin your search.
Decide your destination. You must decide when you want to get away and where you are interested in going. Consider whether you are the least bit flexible in either one of these details. Being flexible often allows you to catch those last-minute specials that occasionally come across your computer screen. In addition, there are days that are just cheaper to travel. If you fly out on a Saturday with a Tuesday return flight, cheaper fares and great seat availability may be your reward.
Fix yourself some coffee. You have your dates, your desired locale and you've allowed for some flexibility. Grab a cup of coffee or beverage of choice, settle in front of the computer and begin your search.
Do a Google search. Make it easy and search for "best and cheapest vacations". The results are overwhelming at first, nearly 764,000 entries but (and here's where patience comes in) weeding through, you will be able to find a vacation package that appeals to your sense of adventure and is easy on your wallet.
Choose a lesser-known airline. When skimming the results, consider traveling on the lesser-known airlines. This does not mean low-cost airlines such as JetBlue or Southwest; but rather, airlines that are less known with names such as Mesa, SkyWest, Republic and Freedom Airlines. They are often disguised as United Express or the Delta Connection. These lesser-known airlines are actually regional airlines that travel from obscure places like Medford, Oregon to United Airline's hub in San Francisco, or from Little Rock to U. S. Airways' hub in Charlotte. European and Asian travel markets also have lesser-known airlines that travel to their areas, including Ryanair, Easyjet, Jetstar or Malaysia Airlines. Although you may not be able to fly direct from the United States on these airlines, they are a viable alternative for international travel.
Search discount sites such as expedia.com, orbitz.com or travelocity.com. Despite the airlines' boast to the contrary, you can get better deals without buying directly from them. Discount travel sites are one place to begin your search; however, another viable option is to contact travel agents who may have agreements with large travel companies and can negotiate lower rates. A travel agent also may be able to get you first-class seats for coach prices by booking the flights under codes such as YUPP, QUPP or Z. These codes automatically award the ticketholder upgrades to first class because they may be matching a low-cost carrier in a particular market.
Leave for your vacation from a larger city. Another tried-and-true travel savings tip is to plan to leave from a larger city to avoid paying higher prices. If you are in close proximity to a city such as Atlanta, Dallas, Boston or Los Angeles, consider driving to these airports instead of flying out of perhaps a more convenient regional airport in your home city.
