Travel More For Less

The money-losing airline industry is raising fares and adding fees as it struggles with record-high fuel prices. Many American travelers are opting for "staycations" by choosing not to travel when they have time off. But, as per the experts there are ways to escape the rising air travel costs. According to George Hobica, creator of the travel Web site airfarewatchdog.com - 'there are still many, many, many cheap tickets'. You can get a cheap plane ticket but you're going to need to be very flexible.

• Fly on the slowest days of the week

Tuesday and Wednesday are the slowest flying days of the week for business travel so demand is low, and so are the fares.

• Fly on slowest time of the year

If you really want some cheap fares, you should travel during the slowest time of year, says Hobica. That rules out holidays, as well as spring, summer and winter.

• Fly to popular places at unpopular times

Candy Harrington, editor of Emerging Horizons, suggests being completely flexible about the destination, based on the fare. "Check out the airline Web sites, and see what destinations they have on sale, then build your vacation around that destination".

• Buy tickets during cheapest times of the day

Airlines change fares three times a day and early birds snags the best deals. As per Hobica "Early morning is the time to buy." During weekends, check fares on Saturday morning and at 5p.m. when the airlines lowers prices to fill up flights.

• Why don't you buy a package

Travel packages offering cut-rate hotel stays and car rentals can save you a lot of money. "They're super bargains," he says. "Even if you don't need the rental car, you could just not pick it up, because the airfare is so cheap" - says Hobica.

Spring Travel Part II, Senior Travel to Mexico City, Kingston or Las Vegas

Welcome back to the CheapoAir Spring Airline Travel Series!

Yesterday we covered Spring Family Travel. If you missed it, check it out. We discussed the top destination for families this spring, and on a budget!

Today... Senior Travel to Mexico City, Kingston or Las Vegas. Where should you go? How can you get the most for your money? Is there a preferred destination?

Though this may come as quite a surprise, all three destinations are perfectly delightful choices. What it boils down to is what you're looking for in a vacation and who you're traveling with. Each of these wonderful destinations is absolutely within your budget!

Traveling to Mexico City or Kingston during the spring is the off-season. That means bigger savings and smaller lines into the most sought after attractions. If you're in need of the three R's (rest, relaxation and romance), Kingston will take your breath away. From all-inclusive resorts, to spa packages and a la carte travel (hotel, airfare and car rental parsed out) to suit all budgets. You can plan the perfect itinerary.

To find out more about Kingston, visit the Kingston Travel Guide. If you're traveling with a companion, but want something a little less beachy and a lot more city, visit Mexico City. This thriving metropolis nestled in the mountains offers a great sense of Mexican culture and history. This is a great destination for booking guided tours, too.

Tours are an affordable, all-inclusive half day or day trip that allows you to visit several sites for one price. For example, one company might be offering Cathedrals, Museums or Botanical Gardens. Instead of paying for each museum, you're only paying for the tour, a flat, one-time rate!

Las Vegas is a divine destination! It's also one of the top destinations year round. This is a perfect spot for friends. Believe it or not, booking cheap tickets is easy, especially on CheapoAir! Hotels are equally affordable and annual discounts abound. Las Vegas is for spending money on gambling. For me, it's slot machines.

Las Vegas also offers incredible live performances, concerts, dancers and incredible food. You can really have the time of your life in this city. Relax in a casino, sit by the pool and soak up some sun or walk around the strip and shop. Whatever you seek, you can probably find in Las Vegas.

Seniors traveling, the most important spring travel tip for you is choose your destination wisely. Think of who you're traveling with and the type of vacation you'd like this to be. Be sure to book at least 21 days in advance for maximum savings. However, there are exceptions to the rule and last minute travel on a budget is absolutely doable. Check out some of our airline ticket prices. Choose different date combinations to see what's out there and if it's within your budget.

So go out there and catch spring fever!

Don't forget to visit us tomorrow for, Spring Travel Part III, Honeymooners and Couples Traveling to the Caribbean, Punta Cana or San Juan.