Flying For Less

You can get some great deals on airfare these days, but you definitely need to do your homework! These days comparing flights is easier than ever, with sites like Expedia, Orbitz, Farecast, and my favorite - Kayak. However, most websites charge some type of service fee, so you have to do your research and see if the end price is really saving you money.

With the arrival of no-frills airlines like Southwest and JetBlue, you can often be guaranteed a lower rate than traditional airlines, if you're willing to skip the 'frills' (like having your seat assignment ahead of time....if that can be considered a frill!). Just make sure to check in online early so that you don't get stuck in the last seating group and end up in the middle seat!

If the cold weather's got you down, and you need an escape, we've found a few great deals (through InternationalLiving.com) that can get you to warmer weather without breaking the bank (and have also listed flights to avoid). Even if you don't live in one of these cities, it may be worth it to catch a connecting flight, or take a bus to get these great deals!


1. New York JFK to Puerto Vallarta

Best deal: Mexicana Airlines through kayak.com--$421 roundtrip, connecting through Juarez International, flying out March 31, returning April 2.

One to avoid: Delta--$1,064 for same dates and connection. Yikes

2. LAX to Rio de Janeiro to Salvador to Recife to Fortaleza to Rio

Best deal: Delta for the international flight (LAX to Rio)--$754 roundtrip, connecting through Atlanta, flying out May 24, returning June 4. TAM's Brazil Airpass for the four internal flights--$599. Total cost: $1,353.

One to avoid: Northwest for the international portion--$1,053 for same dates and connection. To get the internal flights without the Airpass, even booking the cheapest individual flights, would cost $915. Total cost: $1,968.

3. New York to Paris direct

Best Deal: American Airlines 7.5-hour flight--$522 roundtrip, flying out April 12, returning April 19.

One to avoid: Air France--$682, plus an extra four hours as you connect through Dulles International.

And for those of you flying domestically, here's a flight we wouldn't mind taking...
4. Detroit to Tampa Bay, 1 Layover each way

Best Deal: Southwest Airlines -- $212 if you book on their site.

One to avoid: Anything Northwest this day - you'll be paying upwards of $350, most with layovers.