Airline Credit Cards

Whether you’re traveling halfway around the world or just across state lines, travel expenses can add up quickly, especially with rising airline and gas prices. But you don’t need to break the bank to have a great time on vacation. There are many ways to get even the priciest of travel necessities at a great discount or even for free. Check out these tips and see if any can save you money on your vacation.

General Tips

These general tips can help you make your trip much easier on your budget.

1. Surf the net for promo deals. The internet is chock full of travel deals if you know where to look. Sign up for emails and updates from comparison sites like Kayak and have the best promos sent directly to your inbox.
2. Print out online coupons. There are many coupons online for hotels, dining, and attractions. Simply print them out and bring them with you when you go.
3. Sign up for free travel contests. While there is no guarantee of winning, there’s no harm in trying. Who knows, you might get lucky!
4. Go to timeshare presentations. While this isn’t for the weak-willed, time share presentations can be a way to get some pretty great stuff for free. The inexperienced can use this guide to keep from falling prey to the sales pitch.
5. Contact local tourism bureaus. A simple letter or email to the local tourism bureau of the place you’re planning to visit can garner you some free coupons and maps of the area.
6. Take advantage of discounts through work. Many businesses have corporate discount programs that can save you a lot of money on admission to a wide variety of attractions as well as hotels and transportation. Check to see if your employer has such a program; it can save you a bundle.
7. Never be afraid to ask. If you want a discount on a price, just ask, otherwise you might miss out on a potential bargain.
8. Be frugal, not cheap. While it’s good to be frugal with your vacation money, don’t skimp on important things. It may end up costing you more in the long run.
9. Try to speak the language. Do your best to speak the language, otherwise you’ll peg yourself as a tourist and possibly get charged higher prices.
10. Get cash at an ATM. Don’t exchange money before you leave home or at the airport. You will get a much better exchange rate by using your credit card at an ATM.
11. Check out the rotary club. Rotary Club International offers free travel and accommodations for businesspeople on group study exchanges. You don’t even have to be a member.
12. Make friends. Just like at home, having the right connections can go a long way towards getting hooked up with free stuff. So be nice, a smile may score you some free goodies.
13. Be flexible. You’re more likely to get discounts and freebies if you’re willing to be flexible in your plans.
14. Don’t be ashamed to drop names. Know someone who lives and works in the area you’re visiting? Mention their name; they might have friends in unexpected places that can offer you a deal.
15. Volunteer. If you’re not opposed to working on your vacation, you can get free lodging in many scenic locations all over the world in exchange for varying degrees of volunteer work.

Flights

Flying can be expensive, but luckily there are many ways to help reduce the cost. Check out these tips to help you save on airfare.

16. Extend a business trip. If your work has already paid for you to fly somewhere, why not spend a few days after your business is taken care of checking out the sights?
17. Get bumped. Airlines reward passengers who are willing to be bumped with passes for free travel. While it might be a small inconvenience, it can save you lots of money on travel expenses.
18. Cash in your credit card rewards. If you’ve got a rewards credit card, cash in the miles for free or discounted flights.
19. Be a courier. If you’re willing to pack light, you can score free travel all over the world by working as a package courier.
20. Ask friends and family who work with an airline. Often, employees of airlines can get family members and friends tickets for next to nothing.
21. Use your miles to upgrade to first class. If you don’t quite have enough miles with your frequent flyer card to get free flights, you can use the miles to upgrade instead, and enjoy your flight from the comfort of first class.
22. Bring your own snacks. Many airlines have cut out their free snack and beverage services and now charge a fee for those little bags of peanuts. Bring your own snacks and you can avoid having to buy them once you’re in the air.
23. Complain if you receive poor service. While it isn’t common, occasionally you’ll have a really poor experience with an airline. If you feel you’ve been mistreated, send a letter to the customer service department. While you probably won’t get a totally free flight, you may get free upgrades or miles you can use.
24. Check out rewards programs that give free companion tickets. Many credit card reward programs not only give you miles when you buy a ticket, but will also give you a free ticket for a friend to come along when you purchase a full-priced fare.

Accommodation

Hotels can be one of the biggest expenses on a vacation. Use these tips to sleep soundly without putting so much strain on your wallet.

25. Stay with family and friends. If you have family or friends that live near where you’re traveling, see if you can stay with them for a few days. It could save you a lot of money on hotels and you’ll get to spend time with people you care about.
26. Get motel coupons. For the frequent road-tripper, motel coupons can be an invaluable resource and the Motel Coupons website has discounts for places all over the US. You’re sure to find some for motels near your destination.
27. Swap houses. If you’re looking for totally free accommodations and have a good amount of trust in your fellow man, swapping houses can be a great option for cheap travel. There are many services that can set you up with other people who want to do a swap and may be more reliable than those you find elsewhere.
28. Become a hotel critic. For the price of a written review, you can earn a few nights in hotels all over.
29. Stay in hostels when possible. While most are not entirely free, they are usually extremely cheap, especially if you’re traveling in a group. Many will even provide free breakfast.
30. Be a house sitter. In exchange for helping someone keep their home and pets safe and sound while they’re away, you’ll get to stay cheaply in places all over the world. Check with some of the larger and more reliable organizations that can set you up with a home that needs watching.
31. Find free hotels. Sound too good to be true? It’s not. Many travel sites guarantee that they have the lowest price. If you find your hotel cheaper somewhere else, it’s on them.
32. Hotel rewards cards. Many hotels have partnered with credit card companies to create rewards cards. These cards can get to free stays at the hotel, so use them for everyday purchases and cash in the rewards when you travel.
33. Check out work to stay deals. There are many programs worldwide that offer free lodging in exchange for some help around the house or farm. While it may not be as relaxing as lounging on the beach, it can take a hefty chunk out of the cost of your vacation.
34. Become part of a guestroom program. Believe it or not, there are people all over who are willing to allow travelers to stay in their guestrooms. Check out a program like the Guest Room Network to see if you can find a free room at your destination.
35. Share hotel rooms. If you’re traveling with a friend, cut costs in half by sharing a hotel room.
36. Arrange group travel. If you’re good at planning, you can score free travel by arranging group tours for others. As a reward for bringing in a paying group, companies like GlobeTours give the organizer the same trip for free.
37. Take part in a sister city exchange. Sister Cities International is a nonprofit network that partners hundreds of U.S. cities with similar international sister cities. Many groups travel overseas to these cities and the cost is usually covered by fund raisers and the host family. Of course, be advised that you will have to host other travelers in exchange.
38. Crash on a couch. Odd as it may sound, there are international networks designed just for the traveling freeloader. You’ll find listings for couches you can sleep on all over the world. You’ll get free lodging and hopefully make some great new friends.
39. Camp out. There are few ways to sleep cheaper than camping out under the stars. In some places you may be able to camp for free, but in national parks and campgrounds, fees are usually very reasonable.
40. Learn Esperanto.While in the eyes of many Esperanto may not be the most useful of language skills, it can land you some free lodging through an exchange program. You’ll be able to reduce travel costs and get to practice speaking another language.

Dining

Dining out when you’re at home may just be a special treat, but when you’re traveling it may become a necessity. Try out some of these ideas to help reduce the cost of your meals.

41. Look for restaurants where kids eat for free. If you’re traveling with kids, you can often cut costs by eating at places that let kids eat for free. You’ll save money that you can put towards other vacation expenses.
42. Get free breakfast at your hotel. If your hotel offers free breakfast, take advantage of it. It’s one less meal you have to pay for out of pocket.
43. Bring your own coffee mug or water bottle. Buying coffee and bottled water every day can get expensive quickly. Save money by brewing coffee in your hotel room or refilling your own water bottles.
44. Purchase restaurant gift cards. Gift cards to restaurants can often be purchased on eBay or sites like Restaurant.com for less than their face value, allowing you to eat at your favorite place and still save money.
45. Get meals comped. Staying in Vegas? Use your high-roller status to get some free meals.
46. Make lunch your main meal. Dinner menus might be more extensive, but lunch prices are almost always cheaper. Fill up at lunch so you can spend less when dinnertime rolls around.
47. Make the most of freebies. If your hotel is giving out free snacks or breakfast, take a little something and save it for later.
48. Bring your own food. While it isn’t always an option, bringing your own food along on a trip can save you tons of money, especially if you’re vacationing in a place with high food prices.
49. Flirt shamelessly. There is no guarantee of a free or discounted meal if you flirt, but there is no harm in trying if you’re really hungry and low on cash.
50. Join a diners club. Members of diners clubs often get special discounts on restaurants which can add up if you will be eating out frequently.
51. Sign up for emails from your favorite places. Restaurants often send out special coupons and deals in emails, and sometimes you’ll even get gift certificates for free food when your birthday rolls around.

Transportation

Getting around in a foreign city can be hard enough without having to worry about how much it’s costing you. Try out these methods for saving money seeing the sights.

52. Find a ride. Websites like RideSeek and Ridester make it easy to find and share a ride to your destination, helping cut down on your travel costs.
53. Get a free gas card. There are many offers you can sign up for that will give you free gas cards. Some hotels even give them out as bonuses for staying with them.
54. Check out AAA discounts. If you’re a member of AAA, it’s likely that you can get a number of discounts on rentals and services by using your card.
55. Take public transportation. Most big cities have pretty good public transportation systems and often there are substantial discounts if you buy several passes at once.
56. Use your own two feet. While it isn’t always possible to walk everywhere you want to go, when you can, do it. It can save you money, give you some exercise, and allow you to spend time exploring a new place.
57. Bring your bike. One way to avoid having to pay for transportation is to bring your own. Biking is a great way to see the sights, not to mention good exercise.
58. Avoid toll roads. Tolls can add up quickly, especially near cities. Use an online mapping program to provide you with an alternate route. It might take a few minutes longer, but you’ll save money and get to take in the scenery.
59. Don’t rent a car unless you need one. If you only really need a car to get from the airport to your hotel, don’t bother renting a car. You’ll save not only on the rental fee, but gas and parking as well.
60. Research free public transport. Many big cities, in an effort to cater to tourists, have some kind of free public transport between big tourist attractions. Check out your destination city to see if you can save a walk or cab fare with a free ride.
61. Become a preferred renter. Most rental car companies have preferred renter programs that can save you big bucks when you go to rent a car. While most programs have fees, they will usually waive it if you send them a request.
62. Use good driving habits. Save yourself valuable gas by using good driving habits like accelerating slowly and always keeping your tires properly inflated. If you’re driving a long distance the savings can really add up.
63. Work from your RV. Rising gas prices have driven up the cost of an RV vacation, but you can get some of it back by becoming a workamper. There are a variety of jobs to choose from that allow you to bring in income while still enjoying the comforts of an RV vacation.
64. Take part in a driveaway. If you’re going on a road trip, there may be a way to do it for free. Many people who move don’t want to have to move their cars themselves hire companies like this one to do it for them. You can participate in these programs, and get free travel between many different locations.
65. Charge your rental car. Many credit cards that specialize in travel have free insurance included when you use them to pay for travel expenses. So even if you don’t purchase the additional insurance, you’ll still be protected.
66. Hitchhike. While it isn’t the safest option, it is free. Use extreme caution if you plan on doing it.

Entertainment and Shopping

You wouldn’t be on vacation unless you were seeking fun and relaxation, so take advantage of these ideas on how you can save money while still enjoying yourself.

67. See if second day free passes are available. Many amusement and water parks offer free or half price passes for a second day of admission which can save a lot, especially if you’re traveling with your family.
68. Ask about tickets through your hotel. Many hotels offer free or greatly discounted tickets for nearby attractions as a bonus for staying with them. Ask at the front desk to see if you can save some money.
69. Visit free attractions. You can often have a great time at places that are totally free like state and national parks and the beach.
70. Look for free entertainment. Most big cities offer free concerts, parades, and special events especially during the summer months. Before you go, check to see if any pique your interest.
71. Check out a TV show taping. Get free tickets to the taping of your favorite show with TV Tickets.com. You’ll get entertainment and a chance to get close to your favorite TV stars.
72. Find out about museum free days. Most big museums have at least one day of the week when admission is free, so take advantage of the savings by planning your visit around those times.
73. Don’t pay tax. If you’re traveling in Europe, you may not have to pay tax on the items you purchase if the store you shop at participates in the Global Refund program. Simply get a refund cheque from the store when you purchase your items, have it validated when you go through customs, and collect your cash back at their office or through the mail.
74. Check out student discounts. Many attractions popular with tourists have special prices for students as long as you have a student ID.
75. Be a trail guide. If you’re the outdoorsy type, you can enjoy a free vacation by becoming a trail guide. Show other hikers through trails at the Continental Divide or along the Pacific Northwest Trail.

Online Applications

The internet is one of the greatest resources for travelers looking for a bargain. Give these free sites a look before you take your next trip.

76. Travlang For those traveling abroad, Travlang can be a great resource for translating and helping you learn the language.
77. gas buddy.com If you’re driving to your vacation destination, check out gasbuddy to help you find the cheapest prices for gas anywhere you go.
78. points.com Chances are good that if you’re a member of several frequent flyer and rewards programs, you have trouble keeping track of all those miles. Points.com makes it easy by tracking your points from multiple programs.
79. WebFlyer WebFlyer is a great resource for frequent flyers. Keep track of your rewards miles, get special promotions and more at their website.
80. Inspector Trip Not sure you’re getting the best deal on your flight or hotel? Use Inspector Trip’s comparison tool to find out what you should be paying.
81. FreeTrip FreeTrip allows you to create a customized road itinerary and map.
82. Flightview FlightView can help keep you up to date with your flight, let you know if it will be delayed, and get you information for almost any airport in the United States.
83. Traffic.com Don’t let traffic jams ruin your trip. With Traffic.com you can keep track of where the problem areas are and figure out alternate routes.
84. ParkatMyHouse Finding a place to park when you’re away from home can be difficult but ParkatMyHouse does the work for you and finds you reasonably priced parking.
85. TripAdvisor TripAdvisor can give you advice and reviews for thousands of hotels, airlines and attractions all over the world.
86. VirtualTourist Get photos, tips, and reviews for travel destinations all over the world with VirtualTourist.
87. 3DTracking Keeping track of your family at a crowded attraction can be difficult. 3DTracking is free app that lets you know where everyone’s at.
88. TripTie Not sure what to do once you arrive at your destination? Get some ideas by looking at other people’s travel itineraries on TripTie.
89. TravelPod Make an online journal of your travel adventures with a free blog at TravelPod.

Travel Necessities

There are some things that even the most frugal traveler can’t do without. Give these suggestions a whirl to help you shave off a few dollars from your basic travel expenses.

90. Bring along free sunscreen. Whether you’re hitting the beach or the slopes, you’re going to need to bring sunscreen along. Get a free bottle from Quality Health when you fill out a survey.
91. Take advantage of online travel guides. Even big names in travel guides like Frommers have gone online. Why pay for the book when you can get the same info online for free?
92. Buy luggage at a discount or thrift store. There is no doubt that suitcases are some of the most expensive necessities for travelers. Save money by getting one at a discount online or at your local thrift store.
93. Make the most of free wi-fi. Some hotels will charge you to connect to the Internet. Of course, there’s no reason to pay for it when you can go around the corner to the local coffeshop and get it for free. Make the most of free wi-fi in the area and save some money on expensive hotel connections.
94. Score free passport photos. If you need a new passport normally you’d pay anywhere between $10-15 for the photo, but JetBlue customers can take advantage of this free photo offer.
95. Get a free luggage tag. If by some ill stroke of luck your luggage gets lost, make sure it has your name on it so it can get back to you. Sign up for this free one through Cutter and Buck.
96. Order free maps and atlases. There are numerous maps and atlases you can get send to you free of charge just by taking an simple online survey.
97. Get free vacation photo prints. If you take a lot of digital photos, you can get free and cheap prints of them by using an online printing service like Adorama or Snapfish. Some offer 50 free prints just for signing up!
98. Buy travel guides and maps on eBay. If you are in need of travel guides, don’t pay full price. Get them for cheap using eBay and when you get back, sell them!
99. Send e-cards. It’s fun to get mail from all over the world, but you can save money on stamps by sending e-cards instead of postcards. Simply scan in or upload one of your photos and send them in special emails to your family and friends.
100. Pack light. Save yourself baggage overage fees and hassle by packing light and simply doing laundry at your destination once you run out of clothes.

These days, travel is expensive, and costs are rising fast enough to make your head spin. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on your dream vacation-you just have to get smarter. Enlist the help of these tools and resources, and you’re sure to score a flight at a reasonable cost.

Tools

Put these tools to work to stay on top of fare deals, predictions and more.

1. FareChase Alert: Use this widget to stay on top of the latest deals for your favorite cities.
2. Trip Watcher: Use Hotwire’s tool to get constant consideration of travel choices.
3. ITA Trip Planner: Try this site’s planner to get great information on cheap flights.
4. Fare Aware: With this tool, you can find out average prices for your flight, so you’ll know a good deal when you see it.
5. FlightChecker: Use the FlightChecker to find out when you should fly to get the best deals.
6. Flycheapo: Find low-cost flying stats, news, great routes, and more on this cheap flight site.
7. AirDig: Get this "ultimate airfare search tool" to find flights, take notes, and save your favorites for comparison later.
8. TripSync: Use this mobile booking site to enjoy lots of features and integration.
9. Yapta: Stay on top of fare fluctuations to get credits or cash back when your fare’s price drops.
10. FlyerTalk: Check out these forums to learn how other travelers save money, especially frequent flyers.
11. Airfare Watchdog: This tool will alert you when your selected airfares are low.
12. TripStarter: This tool will tell you when to travel so that you’ll get the most out of your flight money.
13. ExpertFlyer: Check out ExpertFlyer to get real-time seat maps for more than 100 carriers, so you can find the flight with the best seat for your cash.
14. Mile Maven: Find the best limited-time deals for frequent flyer bonus miles.

Websites

These booking sites, aggregators, and other resources offer a great way to spot deals for the flight you need.

15. Kayak: On Kayak, you can search more than 140 travel sites at once, then compare them side by side.
16. SideStep: SideStep offers an easy way to search more than 200 sites, plus use helpful tools like their airport guides.
17. Farecast: Use Farecast to do a smart travel search that warns you when fares are expected to rise.
18. Tripology: Fill out Tripology’s questionnaire, and you’ll be matched with a travel agent who can find your perfect flight.
19. Mobissimo: Search airfares, find deals that other travelers have used, and get travel information on this site.
20. TravelZoo: Sign up for TravelZoo’s Top 20 Travel emails to find some impressive deals.
21. Fly Cheap Abroad: This site promises to find cheap tickets for international travel.
22. Priceline: Take advantage of Priceline’s travel search, or get even better discounts by using their "name your own price" option.
23. BootsnAll: Find cheap flights and so much more on this independent traveler network.
24. Travelocity: Book your flight with Travelocity, and you’ll be able to find last minute packages, information, and flight status.
25. Skyscanner: Check out Skyscanner’s suggestions, or just search for incredibly flexible travel times.
26. Orbitz: Check out featured deals, create a package, and more with Orbitz.
27. CheapoAir: On this site, you’ll find super-cheap flights, reviews, and more.
28. Momondo: Search more than 400 travel sites in the blink of an eye with this web 2.0 travel site.
29. Expedia: Get a great fare and earn rewards at the same time using Expedia.
30. dohop: This site makes it easy to find the cheapest, fastest route to your destination.
31. CheapTickets: Check out the CheapTickets "Cheap of the Week," organize your trips, and more on CheapTickets.
32. Hotwire: On Hotwire, you’ll find money-saving airfares and useful tools.
33. FareChase: On Yahoo!’s travel search engine, you can find great deals.

Articles

Follow the strategies outlined in these articles to get the best deal possible.

34. How to Get the Cheapest Flight Every Single Time: This article has helpful recommendations for websites and booking strategies.
35. Finding the best flight fares: Find out what Pauline Frommer has to say about finding cheap flights.
36. How to score a cheap airline ticket: Read this article to find out how you can save money on fares beyond discount airlines.
37. A Peek at Peak Travel: Get the lowdown on busy, expensive days to fly.
38. An Insider’s Guide to Cheap Airfares: This article offers a few insider guidelines that you should follow.
39. Tips for Finding Cheap Airfare: This article offers ten easy tips for scoring a cheap flight.
40. How to buy cheap airline tickets: This article offers tips and suggestions for lots of fare-finding tools.
41. Best Sites for Cheap Flights: Tips for Finding the Lowest Airfare: Check out this article for tips, website suggestions, and more.
42. SoYouWanna Find a Cheap Plane Ticket?: This guide offers a step-by-step tutorial for finding a cheap flight.
43. How to Find Cheap Airfare: Check out this fun video to get some cheap flight tips.
44. How to Buy Cheap Plane Tickets: Follow these rules to avoid overpaying for your flight.
45. How to Fly as a Courier: This article offers great tips for getting a deeply discounted fare by flying as a courier.
46. Refunds: Who’s the Best When You’re Due a Refund: Find out about airlines’ affordability when you’re in a bind.
47. Cheap Plane Tickets — Why You’re Not Finding Them: Check out these slick tricks to get the best flight for your money.
48. We Love to Fly and It Shows: Inside the World of Mileage Running: In this article from Wired, you’ll learn great strategies for accumulating frequent flyer miles.
49. How to Book a Cheap Flight: Use this article’s advice to avoid overpaying on your flight.
50. Do Cheap Flights Still Exist?: This article describes the rising cost of travel, and offers some tips for making it more affordable.

These days, pets are often given the same privileges as their human owners when it comes to grooming, play dates, pet spa treatments, gourmet meals and exercise routines. Since pets are usually considered a part of the family, why should things be different when you take the whole crew on a vacation? Unfortunately, traveling with a pet can be a bigger hassle than your typical trip to the groomer’s, but we’ve compiled this ultimate guide for a pet-friendly vacation to make sure everyone has a good time.

Traveling by Air

Air travel is often the most convenient way to get to your destination, but if you plan to take Fluffy on board, you need to be aware of the extra procedures and dangers headed your way.

1. Tips for Safe Pet Air Travel: Visit the Human Society’s website for tips on keeping your pet comfortable and safe during a planet trip.
2. Stow your pet under the seat in front of you: If your dog or cat is small enough to comfortably fit in a carrier the size of most carry-on items, you may be able to keep your pet under the seat in front of you for the entire plane trip. That way, your furry friend won’t be subjected to riding alone in the back with everyone’s heavy suitcases.
3. Put identification information everywhere: First, make sure your pet’s ID tags are securely attached to his or her collar. Go ahead and clip another ID tag or luggage tag onto the carrier door, and consider writing your contact information directly on the animal’s carrier to avoid mistakes and theft.
4. Research companies that specialize in transporting pets: Companies like Pet Air specialize in transporting pets, taking care of everything from booking flights to selling kennels and carriers.
5. TakeYourPet.com Travel Tips: This guide from TakeYourPet.com suggests trimming your animal’s nails to minimize the injury it can cause to itself, you and other animals or people.
6. Pack a toy or favorite comfort item in your pet’s carrier: To make the trip more comfortable for your pet, pack a familiar toy or blanket inside your pet’s carrier to ease their anxiety. Rawhides aren’t always a good idea, though, as they can cause upset stomachs.
7. Bring a photo of your pet: In case you have trouble finding your pet after landing, have a recent photo ready to show airport security and baggage claim attendants to prove you’re the owner and help locate your pet.
8. Pack pet meds in accordance with TSA carry-on regulations: Make sure you pack your pet’s medications in a TSA-approved system, which requires that liquids and gels 3 oz. or less be packed in a quart-sized plastic zip-top bag. If you have to dump out your pet’s medicine or take a later flight to have time to stick it in your check bags, you could be in for a disaster.
9. Pack a small bowl for water: Dogs and cats can get dehydrated easily, so bring a small bowl or collapsible container so that your pet has water as soon as you land or retrieve it from the baggage claim.
10. Be familiar with airline travel restrictions and guidelines: Before booking a flight for your pet, make sure you are prepared to deal with all travel restrictions set forth by the airline. Many airlines like Delta require pets to be at least 8 weeks old, restrict the destinations where pets can fly to, and charge a fee for in-cabin carriers.
11. Pet Air Travel: Ask-the-Vet.com publishes this guide to taking pets on an airplane, including a list of pet regulations for several major airlines.

Traveling by Car

Traveling by car can be easier on your pet than booking a flight, but check out this list to make sure you’re well-prepared for the trip.

12. ASPCA Car Travel Tips: The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) posts this list of car travel tips to make sure your pet travels safely and comfortably.
13. Bring a water dish and a bottle of water: Just in case the rest stop where you plan to take a break doesn’t have fresh water or a dish to put it in, pack a bowl and a water bottle to rehydrate your pet during the trip.
14. Try not to leave your pet alone in the car: If you’re traveling by yourself, this tip may be hard to abide by, but limiting your rest time to bathroom and stretch breaks is safest for your pet. If you can, park your car near the window of the place where you stop so that you can keep an eye on your pet. Always roll down the windows a bit to keep fresh air going in and out of your vehicle.
15. Don’t give a big meal before the trip: Stick to your pet’s regular feeding schedule as much as possible, but decrease meal portions before you get in the car; otherwise, you may have a big mess to clean up in the backseat.
16. AVMA.org: Travel By Car: The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends not letting your animals ride with their heads out the window, no matter how much fun it seems. Besides risking injury, animals can also get bugs, dirt, and other irritants in their eyes, ears or noses.
17. Keep your pet comfortably secure: Keeping your pet in a carrier is the best and safest way to travel in a car. Your pet will be less likely to be injured if you have to slam on the breaks or get into a fender bender, and you won’t have to worry about your pet jumping into your lap while you barrel down the highway.
18. How to Choose the Best Travel Pet Carrier for Your Pet: Whether you have a large dog or a small kitty cat, make sure you know how to select the most appropriate carrier for your pet. This guide will help you out.
19. Pack a clean-up kit: Just in case your pet gets car sick, go ahead and pack up a simple clean-up kit with a pet cleaner suitable for fabric, carpet or leather. Also bring along paper towels and a small garbage bag.
20. Plan stops ahead of time: Even if you’re familiar with the route you plan to take, plan out your breaks ahead of time. You’ll feel more comfortable stopping at places you know are well-lit, have plenty of grass for your pet’s bathroom breaks and are far enough from the highway for a quick run.

International Travel

For international moves and extended vacations, pet owners need to be prepared for customs regulations, vaccination reports and other complicated procedures. Use this list to make sense of it all.

21. Pet Passport, Immigration and Quarantine Info.: PetTravel.com publishes links and resources for international pet travel. Find immigration rules and regulations for over 100 countries, including Argentina, South Africa, the Bahamas and France.
22. Official USDA Certification: PetTravel.com reports that "all EU Countries as well as many other countries now require that a veterinarian certificate issued in the United States have an official USDA Certification stamp." Follow this link to find out more information about how you can secure one for your pet.
23. International Animal Export Regulations: The USDA page for exporting animals and animal products from the United States is full of helpful information.
24. Globetrotting Pets: The website for the book Globetrotting Pets: An International Travel Guide has sample information and tips for traveling to different countries with your pets, from tourism contact information to a helpful travel check-list for your pet.
25. Pets on the Go! International Resources: This website has import/export information for the U.S., Hawaii, Guam, Great Britain and Mexico, as well as an international pet-friendly hotel search, air travel tips and more.
26. Pet Relocation — Tips for International Pet Moving: This post serves as an excellent guide and check-list for moving a pet abroad. You’ll find information about finding and packing a suitable crate, things to remember on the day of your trip, and plenty of other questions you should be prepared to ask airlines, customs and other offices.

Staying in a Hotel

27. Keep a list of pet-friendly hotels with you: Before your trip, make sure you have a list of pet-friendly hotels in the area you plan on traveling through. Even if you have a reservation, it’s best to have one or two alternative options just in case you have a layover, car trouble or other problems before you get to your final destination.
28. Hotel-Guides.us Pet-friendly Hotels and Motels: Use this guide to see whether or not hotels are dog- and cat-friendly. The site also also has tips for bringing along your pets to a hotel.
29. Stay in a ground-floor room: MSNBC recommends staying in a ground-floor room, "preferably one that opens to the outside. That way you can take your pet in and out without going through a lobby and you will disturb as few people as possible."
30. Put up the "Do Not Disturb" sign: When you leave your pet in your room by itself, put up the "Do Not Disturb" sign so that the cleaning staff won’t get surprised by your pets…or vice versa. You’ll save yourself from complaints, extra messes and even worse, potential lawsuits if your pet frightens or injures a member of the hotel staff.
31. Pet-Friendly Hotels: Forbes reviews posh pet-friendly hotels around the U.S. in this article.

Advice from the Pros

The Dog Whisperer and other professional animal handlers have loads of tips and advice for pet owners just itching to take their pets on vacation.

32. Cesar’s Travel Tips: The Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan dedicates this web page to giving pet owners travel tips like "bring your dog’s blankie," "use a soothing scent," and "claim your new space."
33. Traveling With Your Pet: The AVMA has lots of travel safety tips for pets, including those needed for camping trips and vacations that require bus and train travel.
34. Ten Most Common Poisonous Plants: If you’re taking your pet into unfamiliar territory, print out the Animal Poison Control Center’s list of the ten most common poisonous plants to avoid disaster.
35. Pet Moving Tips: The online Residency Guide offers lots of relocation tips for when you have to move with a pet. Find tips for dogs, cats, fish, birds and other pets.
36. Traveling With Your Furry Friends: "America’s Most Trusted Pet Expert" Warren Eckstein has lots of pet travel tips that include people preparation, pet preparation, and a checklist of items to pack for your pet.
37. If Your Dog Has Ticks: Trips to the beach, the mountains, or even to certain locations increases your dog’s chances of getting ticks. If you spot one of these nasty parasites, check out this guide for information on what to do.
38. How to Travel with a Dog: Check out Expert Village for a series of videos that teach dog owners the dos and don’ts of traveling with their pet. You will get to know more about dog costume and dog t-shirt here.
39. Cesar’s Beach Tips: If you can’t wait to take your pooch to the beach, read Cesar Millan’s tips on planning a safe, rational, pet-friendly beach vacation.
40. Protect Your Pet: Summer Safety Tips: MSNBC interviews pet expert Andrea Arden for tips on taking care of your pets during the summer months and in warm-weather climates. Read about sun protection, keeping your pets safe around water and avoiding parasites.
41. Travelers Digest: Information for People Traveling With Pets: These travel pros have put together a long list of resources for pet owners planning a vacation.

Health Concerns

Make sure your pet has as much fun as you do on vacation by putting its health and well-being first.

42. Get a pre-vacation check-up: If you’re going away for a long trip, or if your pet is chronically ill, take it to the vet for a pre-vacation check-up. Your vet will tell you if it’s safe to take along the pet and can give you some pointers for caring for your animal during the trip.
43. Make a file for all your pet’s health records: Keep a file with all of your pet’s medical records handy in the car, in your carry-on bag and everywhere else you plan on taking your pet during the vacation. You never know when local authorities might demand to see up-to-date rabies vaccinations, and most of the time, dog tags won’t cut it.
44. Bring a list of emergency phone numbers: In case your pet needs immediate medical attention when you’re away from home, research the area you’ll be staying in to find contact information and hours of operation for local vets.
45. CDC Importation of Pets, Other Animals, and Animal Products into the United States: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requires certain health information from pets returning from trips abroad. Use this list of resources as a check-list before you even leave the U.S.
46. Animal Diseases: The USDA Animal and Health Inspection Service website gives descriptions of many different animal diseases that could affect your pet on vacation.

Traveling with Exotic Pets

Dogs and cats aren’t the only ones who get to travel nowadays. Read below for tips on bringing along your more exotic animals.

47. Travel with Exotic Pets: PetFriendlyTravel.com publishes information for exotic pet owners who need official paperwork allowing them to travel abroad.
48. Can a Rabbit Tolerate a Long Drive in the Car?: Read About.com’s in-depth analysis of taking a pet rabbit on a long car trip.
49. Pet Bird Travel Tips: The Bird Channel website has several great tips for traveling safely with your pet bird, including choosing the right carrier, how to set up a "home away from home" and more.
50. Travel with Horses: The website HorsesWorldWide.com lists horse-friendly vacations and lodging options in the U.S. and abroad.
51. Double check exotic animal regulations: Healthypet.com recommends checking the customs and animal policies of your vacation destination to make sure your exotic pet is allowed inside the borders. If it’s not, you’ll have to leave your pet at home or cancel the vacation.

General Tips and Precautions

Check out this list for more tips and resources that will make traveling with your pet more enjoyable.

52. Get your pet used to traveling: If you plan to take your pet for a long ride in the car, get him accustomed to the trip by bringing him on short errands around town first. If your pet will be sitting in a carrier during a flight, have him or her sit in the crate for a similar amount of time at various intervals before your vacation.
53. Make a new ID tag with travel contact information: If someone finds your lost pet while you’re in vacation in Florida, calling your home phone number in Wisconsin isn’t going to do any good. Make a new ID tag at your vet or animal supplies store that has your cell phone number or hotel contact information.
54. How to Pack a Puppy Travel Bag: Watch this video from Expert Village to make sure you’re prepared to look after your puppy on a trip.
55. How to Travel Train Your Cat: This simple guide contains good tips for getting your cat used to travel, including putting it on a cat leash and taking practice car trips in a carrier.
56. Most Effective Ways to Calm Anxious Cats: Veterinarians and pet experts Foster and Smith review anti-anxiety products for cats on this site.
57. Top 10 Dog-Friendly Cities to Visit in North America: From Chicago to Vancouver to Salt Lake City, find out which North American cities are the most welcoming to visiting dogs.
58. Traveling With Your Toy Dog Breed: Planning a Pet-Friendly Vacation: Traveling with a pint-sized pup might seem super easy. You can take them everywhere, they make small messes and are generally easy to groom. This guide, however, has tips for dealing with some of the unique travel dangers and annoyances that toy dog breeds face.
59. Car Sickness and Fear of Riding in Cars: If your cat is scared of riding in a car but you need to take it on a car trip, try these tips to gently walk your pet through the process.
60. U.S. State and Territory Animal Import Regulations: Check out this list if you’re going to be traveling from state to state. You’ll want to be prepared if you’re required to have current rabies vaccination records or other pet-related paperwork.

While airlines only lose about 1% of all the total luggage processed, there’s always the chance that you’ll be that unlucky passenger stuck waiting at the baggage carousel for luggage that will never come, and there’s nothing to put a damper on a vacation faster than having no toothbrush or PJs to change into. There are a few things you can do, however, to help lower your chances of having your luggage lost. Here are a list of some preventative measures, as well as some tips on what to do if your bag is lost.

1. Check as little as possible. The best advice for travelers worried about losing luggage is to simply try to avoid checking as much as possible. It’s much more difficult, if not a considerable effort, to lose luggage that you keep with you rather than checking in. Pack less to help keep your checked bags to a minimum whenever possible.
2. Tag your luggage. Make sure each piece of luggage you’re bringing with you, especially those you’re checking in, are marked with sturdy luggage tags. They should have at the very least your name and a phone number where you can be reached on them. If you’re worried about privacy, get those that cover your information unless opened or put your business contact information on them instead. After all, you want to make it easy for the airline to contact you if your bag is found.
3. Double check all tags. Airline counters can be busy, confusing places, and employees checking your bags are only human-they can make mistakes. You can help reduce any mix ups with luggage tagging, however rare, by making sure to double check your tags before you leave the counter. Check to see if the destination on the tag matches your final destination. You could save yourself a lot of time and trouble.
4. Put some things in a companion’s luggage. If you’re traveling with a friend or family member, use the situation to your advantage. Put a change of clothes into your friends suitcase and have them put one into yours. Even if either bag is lost, you’ll both still have something to change into, and won’t be at a complete loss.
5. Get a distinctive piece of luggage. While it may not prevent your luggage from being lost, it can make it a lot easier to find if your bag isn’t the standard black without any distinctive features. Try buying luggage in an uncommon color or attaching a luggage tag or ribbon that will help it stand out. It’ll make it easier to describe to airline employees if it’s lost, and easier for you to spot on the baggage carousel.
6. File a claim immediately. If your bag is lost, don’t wait until later to notify the airline. In most cases, lost luggage must be reported within 24 hours if you will need to be reimbursed, not to mention that your claim of lost luggage is a lot harder to dispute if you’ve never left the building. File a claim as soon as you think your bag has gone missing, as the sooner you do it, the sooner the airline can get on getting your bag back to you.
7. Know your information. In the event that you do need to deal with the hassles of lost luggage, it will be a whole lot easier on both you and the airline if you carry your contact information with you. This means hotel addresses and phone numbers of the hotel or residence where you’ll be staying. Looking up this information takes time, and could cause a delay in getting your bag back to you, which is the last thing you want.
8. Don’t panic. If your bag doesn’t show up on the baggage carousel along with the others from your flight, don’t freak out. It’s tempting, especially after being on a long flight, but it’s possible that the bag is being held in the luggage office or with customer service. Check with the airline to see if it might already be waiting for you. Even if it is lost, panic or tears aren’t going to make it travel to you any faster, so calm down and deal with the problem as rationally as possible.
9. Get compensation. Most airlines are responsible for making sure that you have the necessities you need to survive while your bag is being located. This can include toiletries and even basic clothing depending on the length of the delay of your luggage, and if your bag is entirely lost or damaged they should have to provide monetary compensation. Check with your airline to find out what your rights are regarding your lost bag.
10. Pack essentials in your carry on. While you might choose to pack the bulk of your wardrobe and vacation provisions in your checked bag, you can avoid quite a bit of discomfort by packing essentials like a toothbrush, a change of clothes, makeup, and deodorant in your carry on. That way, if something happens to your bag, you’ll have at least enough to get by on until the rest of your things can get back to you.
11. Take inventory. If you want to protect the contents of your bag, create a packing list or inventory of the contents of your suitcase. If it happens that your bag arrives without your favorite pair of jeans, you’ll have the documentation to back up your claims of theft.
12. Use an outside service. If you really want to guarantee that you bag arrives in your destination city at the same time you do, consider using an outside service. Rates aren’t always cheap, but you will be assured that your luggage will end up where it was supposed to. Try a luggage shipping company like The Luggage Club, Carrymyluggage.com or even FedEx.
13. Take a photo. A picture can be worth more than a thousand words. It can also save you valuable time in describing your bag to airline employees if it happens to go missing. Snap a quick photo of your suitcase before you leave home and carry it with you, either printed or on your cell phone, just in case.
14. Place your itinerary in your suitcase. Make sure your wayward luggage comes with everything the airline needs to ensure that it returns to you safely. In addition to tags on the exterior, make sure to place your itinerary and contact information on the inside of your suitcase as well. When it’s found, it can help expedite getting it back to you.
15. Check in early. A significant portion of the luggage that is lost by airlines is the result of passengers that check in at the last minute. Last minute bags may not have time to make it to the flight, and as a result, won’t arrive at your destination at the same time as you. Unless you have some sort of extenuating circumstances, you should arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance for your flight, and three if you want to be safe.
16. Remove old airline tags. Frequent travelers may find themselves with old luggage tags still attached to bags the next time they go to fly. This can lead to a lot of confusion, not to mention potential bag misplacement. Before putting any new destination tags on your bag, make sure the old ones have been completely removed.
17. Don’t ever check medications, jewelry or other valuables. If you’ve checked in a medication you need to take within the next 24 hours you may be out of luck if your bag can’t be returned to you right away. This can be an uncomfortable and even potentially dangerous situation. While jewelry and other valuables may not affect your health, they can be stolen from your bag, and many airlines won’t reimburse for the full cost of replacement for items like these. Always put these kind of things in your carry on bag, a purse, or even your pocket so they won’t get lost on the trip.
18. Be civil. If your bag does get lost, yelling, threatening or disrespecting the airline employees isn’t going to get you your bag any faster. It’s normal to be frustrated, angry and distraught over lost luggage, but the person you’re yelling at wasn’t personally responsible for your inconvenience and is probably trying their best to rectify the situation. You’ll likely get better service if you calm down and give the customer service agents all the information they need to get your bag back to you as quickly as possible.
19. Avoid overbooked flights. While you might really need to catch that last minute flight the day before the holidays, it’s likely that it will be full. Full flights may cause an overage in luggage, especially if people are traveling with especially bulky pieces, meaning that it just might not all fit on the plane. Rather than risk this, try flying on less crowded or out of the way flights. It might take some schedule rearranging, but you can save yourself hassle later of tracking down your bag.
20. Keep your checked luggage stub handy. Your luggage stub it what links you to your bag. Check in agents normally affix it to the sleeve of your boarding pass so it won’t get lost. Hang on to this puppy. While it’s not impossible to track your bag without it, the numbers on this stub make it much easier to track your missing luggage.

Lost luggage doesn’t have to be a constant worry on your next flight. These tips can help reduce the chances of having to deal with the hassle of lost baggage or make your life a little easier in the event you do. Either way, your trip will benefit.

As a frequent business traveler, you’re probably used to packing up your carry-on and hoisting it up into the overhead compartment every week. Tight schedules have become even harder to manage thanks to flight delays and unpredictable airline issues, and you don’t exactly have the extra time to wait around for your suitcase to come around the conveyor belt with all of the tourists and first-time flyers. But many travelers are wising up to the carry-on suitcase trick to avoid lost luggage nightmares, and unless you’re the first one on the plane, it can be quite a challenge to find a spot to stash your overnight bag. To help you keep your bags light, portable and even malleable, read below to get some tips on how an efficient business traveler should pack a carry-on.

• Only pack the things you really need: If you’re traveling alone, it can be tempting to add all kinds of goodies to your bag to keep yourself entertained during lonely nights in the hotel or long flight delays in the airport. Before loading up your travel bag with heavy books and DVDs, however, be honest with yourself and really consider how likely you are to use any of the extra items. You can purchase a magazine at the airport, and many hotels offer Pay-Per-View or DVD rental systems for their guests. In addition, leave out your swimsuit and tennis shoes if you’re not going to have any downtime after late meetings, and don’t bring the family photo album just because you think you’ll start to miss everyone back home. Instead, upload your favorite digital pictures onto your laptop or limit yourself to one picture frame to put up in your room.
• Invest in a mini: iPod shuffles, mini DVD players and travel-sized personal hygiene items like deodorants and razors will save you lots of room in your carry-on. Many of these electronic items have been on the market for a while and are worth investing in if you’re a frequent business traveler. If you’re wondering whether or not to pack a certain item, first ask yourself if it comes in a mini or travel size. If it doesn’t, and you’re not absolutely sure that you’ll need it on your trip, ditch it.
• Carry your coat: If you’re a regular on the New York to LA flight, you’re probably used to dramatic changes in temperature from the time you leave one city and arrive in the next. During the winter months especially, these changes can be extremely inconvenient for travelers who need to pack light. Instead of stuffing your coat into your carry-on bag, carry it on the plane with you and stash it wherever you can once you get to your seat. Wear layers so that you can go from mild climates to chilly temperatures easily without overloading your carry-on.
• Stick to one color palette: One of the key tricks to packing light is limiting your travel wardrobe to one color palette. This method will help you avoid packing extra shoes, jackets, ties, purses and makeup, and will also save you space in your bag and time getting dressed each morning.
• Know how to pack for security: Frequent flyers are familiar with the aggravating back ups that occur when inexperienced travelers don’t respect security rules. Avoid making one of their amateur mistakes by emptying out your pockets, taking off your shoes, throwing out your water bottles and beverage containers and packing all of your travel-sized gels in one clear Ziploc bag in an easy-to-access place in your carry-on. Current TSA guidelines are available here.
• Upload your work files onto your computer: If you’ve got a big presentation to give, you may want to use the plane trip to prep yourself. Instead of packing extra files and materials that you won’t need once you’re at the meeting, upload your documents and charts onto your laptop ahead of time. Web-based systems are usually great, but you won’t be able to access the Internet when you’re in the air. Use a USB device for maximum efficiency and portability.

Keep these tips in mind the next time you have to jump on another cross-country flight but want to pack light. Flight delays and trouble making connections make keeping track of your luggage more and more difficult, so it’s always best to pack a carry-on that will fit under the seat in front of you.

Scoring a great deal on plane tickets is only one of the challenges air travelers face these days. Unbearably long security lines, bumped flights, lost luggage and congested air traffic are commonplace. While we may not be able to control homeland security or overbooked flights, we are able to share with you some of our secrets for finding cheap airline tickets. Read below for 30 places where you can land a great deal on your next flight.

Tools and Resources

Check out this list of tools and resources that are designed to help you find the best airline deals available.

1. Farecast: This website has predicting airfare trends down to a science. Their fare prediction tool "shows if the lowest fare is rising or dropping over the next seven days for the specific dates and cities searched." Travelers are given the option of buying now or waiting until the fare drops to purchase tickets.
2. WebFlyer: This website is known on the Web as "the frequent flyer authority." Great for business travelers or passengers who vacation often, visitors to this site can find all kinds of bonus promotions, special deals on airfare and other insider information.
3. SideStep: SideStep is touted as "the traveler’s search engine." Instead of visiting site after site to research cheap airfares, consider using SideStep, which searches discount ticket sites and airfares from the airlines’ websites to bring up the cheapest tickets anywhere on the Web.
4. Yahoo! Travel: The Yahoo! Travel page has lots of resources for planning vacations, including searching for great deals on airline tickets. Check back often to view the featured discounts leaving from your city.
5. Airline websites: The article "SoYouWanna Find a Cheap Plane Ticket?" reveals that purchasing tickets directly from the airline can actually pay off — if you’re willing to be flexible. Last minute reservations are usually the cheapest, and "if you can adjust your times to fly, you increase your chances of getting a cheap fare."
6. Ding!: Southwest Airline’s popular tool is a desktop application that notifies travelers whenever a special deal pops up going to one of their choice cities. There’s only one catch: in order to secure the discount, you must purchase the ticket by the end of the day.
7. PlaneTickets.com: This website posts links to most major airlines, but it also connects travelers to special deals within the U.S., to Europe, the Caribbean and more.
8. Kayak: Kayak is another site that searches for cheap airline tickets across the Web. If you’re unsure of buying from a discount website, Kayak allows users to buy directly from the airline or agency that offers the lowest price.
9. BookingBuddy: This website lets travelers search sites like Kayak, SideStep, Hotwire and other discount companies to find the best deals available.
10. TripStalker: This tool is a "new, easy-to-use application that grabs the best online travel deals" and notifies you when they go on sale. Follow the link to download the software.

Consolidators and Discount Agencies

Many times the best deals can be found through consolidated airfare companies that feature wholesale prices. Read below to connect to listings for consolidated and discount agencies.

11. LowestFare.com: Travelers don’t have to sacrifice non-stop services or first class comfort when they buy their discount tickets from LowestFare.com.
12. CheapTickets.com: CheapTickets.com has all kinds of flight deals, including airfare and hotel or transportation packages. Students can also find special discount deals, and the Volunteer Vacation Savings Program offers "special savings for schools, religious groups and non-profits."
13. Airvalues.com: Utilize this company’s airfare search engine to book cheap tickets going to top international locations like Tokyo, Paris, Barcelona, Dublin, Athens and Moscow. Flights within the U.S. are also available.
14. Cheapseats.com: This company "specialize[s] in cheap flights, discount airfare and cheap tickets worldwide." If you’re looking for a great deal on international flights, start shopping around with Cheapseats.com first.
15. AirlineConsolidator.com: This "online travel agency specializing in discount international airline tickets" has literally millions of flights in its database waiting to be sold at consolidated prices.
16. Fareline International: U.S. passengers traveling abroad should check out Fareline International "to find the best wholesale airline ticket pricing available." The site also features travel guides to cities like Amsterdam, Venice, Prague and Zurich so that you can plan your trip and book your flight all at once.
17. Faremax: This website offers access to "millions" of airline tickets at consolidated prices and hosts a blog, forum, photo galleries, a personal travel planning page that holds all of your confirmation numbers and more.
18. AirSaver: AirSaver boasts that travelers can save up to 65% on regularly-priced airline tickets when they use the company’s database of international and domestic flights.
19. Consolidated Fares: This easy-to-navigate site features flights to Paris for just $202 from the U.S. and other fantastic deals.
20. AA Travel: AA Travel’s website believes that "vacation is not a once a year event. It’s a lifestyle." You don’t have to be a high roller to appreciate their discount prices and fabulous connections.

Helpful Websites

Use these websites to find more deals on traveling by air.

21. Orbitz: Search for cheap airline tickets or snag a great deal on an entire vacation package when you book with Orbitz.
22. Travelocity: This popular site often has the best deals online. Before you make your reservations, check to see if there are any featured deals to places like Las Vegas, the Caribbean or Hawaii.
23. Hotwire.com: Take advantage of Hotwire’s Travel Ticker tool, which finds unbelievable airfare and hotel deals in your choice of cities.
24. Expedia.com: Everyone knows the Expedia.com TV commercial, so why not go ahead and book a flight with them online? Travelers can "track low fares with Fare Alert," subscribe to great deals with the RSS feature and more.
25. ITA Software’s Fare Shopping Engine: Travelers must create an account to search for tickets on this site, but the low prices are worth it; however, one user on Lifehacker.com warns that "you won’t be flying first class" on any of the flights.
26. Tripmama: Word has it that "Tripmama knows best" when it comes to finding cheap airline tickets. This site searches discount airfares from other websites and features special deals of its own.
27. TicketComps.com: This website relies on customer reviews and recommendations to "provide great advice about vacation or business travel arrangements," including cheap airline tickets. Passengers can book last minute tickets or subscribe to the site’s RSS feeds for personalized travel deals.
28. FlightNetwork: This website offers excellent deals for flights leaving from Canada to anywhere in the world, including the U.S. and Europe.
29. Priceline: Priceline lets travelers bid on flights, hotels and car rentals and book last-minute travel deals at amazingly low prices.
30. Mobissimo Travel: Mobissimo Travel pulls airline ticket deals from other sites and lets you compare prices so that you always get the best offer.

Comment below to share with us your secrets for finding cheap airline tickets!

We know, we know, you just couldn’t leave Rover in a kennel when you go on your fabulous trip to the coast. But can your poor pup really stand 7 hours in a car? Or on a plane? Before you decide to take the family dog on your next vacation, take a look at our checklist to make sure your pet will be just as safe and happy on your trip as you.

1. Make copies of all vet records: Most airlines don’t require vaccination records, but it’s still a good idea to make copies of your dog’s vet history just in case it gets sick or injured during the vacation. If you’re traveling during the holidays, your dog’s regular vet might be out of the office and unable to fax the needed documents to you in time.
2. Check your airline’s pet policy: Before showing up to the airport with your doggie in its kennel, make sure you check with your airline to find out what kinds of restrictions they have. Reservations are sometimes necessary for carry-on pets, and certain destinations have temperature and customs restrictions. For instance, American Airlines will not transport a pet if the ground temperature in either your take off or landing city is above or below a certain mark.
3. Bring along a few toys and comfort items: This item is especially important if your dog is going to be traveling away from you in the back of the plane. Make sure to put a favorite blanket or toy in the kennel with your dog so that it will be surrounded by familiar, comforting items.
4. Check your hotel’s pet policy: When you make your hotel reservations, make sure the place you plan to stay is pet-friendly. You might have to fax them rabies vaccination records ahead of time, but be sure to bring along another copy just in case.
5. DogFriendly.com: Take a minute to visit this excellent website for traveling with dogs. Dog owners can find pet travel guides and city guides to find dog parks, dog-friendly hotels, campsites and more in cities all over North America. There are also resources for storm evacuation policies, appropriate doggie etiquette on the beach and lots more.
6. Stop for bathroom breaks regularly: Keeping your dog on a regular schedule may be tough during a vacation, but it is extremely important to stop the car and let your dog have bathroom breaks every few hours. If your dog isn’t used to road trips, it might need to go more often at first because of nerves or car sickness.
7. Make sure your dog’s collar and tags are secure: Before leaving on your trip, make sure your dog’s collar fits properly and its tags are up to date with your current phone number and rabies information. Adding your cell phone number to the dog’s tag is also a good idea if Rover runs away during the trip, since you won’t be at home to receive any calls.
8. Learn how to restrain your dog in the car: Edmunds.com documents the appropriate way to restrain your dog in the car by using special harnesses which connect your dog to seat belts and giving advice on choosing comfortable pet carriers.
9. Practice makes perfect: If your dog hasn’t been in a car since the day you brought him home, ease your pet into your upcoming road trip by taking him on short errands around the city. You’ll get your dog used to the movement and rhythm of the car, as well as its designated spot, whether in a carrier or in a harness.
10. Don’t forget to pack food: Even if you’re going to a place with supermarkets that carry your dog’s brand of food, fill a large Ziploc bag with a day’s worth of food in case travel delays or an exhausting trip mean you can’t get to the store on time.
11. Place a Do Not Disturb sign on hotel doors: The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends putting up the Do Not Disturb sign on your hotel door during those times you have to leave your dog in the room by itself. Even if your dog is usually good-natured, a strange maid with a rolling cart might startle your pet, and you could find yourself in the middle of a lawsuit.
12. Tricks to remember when booking your flight: When making your plane reservations, don’t just think about how your schedule will affect you. The AVMA suggests reserving nonstop flights during the middle of the week, when it’s generally less crowded. Also, a general rule is to "choose early morning or late evening flights" during warmer months, and "in colder months, choose midday flights." These tips will help you escape airline temperature restrictions and make your dog more comfortable during the flight.
13. Traveling in Europe: Pets: If you want to take your dog to Europe with you, check out this site for vaccination and pet passport requirements and recommendations for countries in the EU.
14. TakeYourPet.com: This network of traveling dog owners gives tips on traveling with pets, coupons for hotels, listings of shelters, groomers, pet supply stores and more.
15. Make sure your dog’s crate is secure: Whether you’re flying or driving, chances are your dog is going to spend at least some part of your trip in its crate. Budget Travel reader Ray Scott advises dog owners to make "sure your pet’s crate has extra hooks or latches so the door doesn’t jostle open if it gets bounced around in transit."
16. Air Travel Guide: Before making your plane reservations, visit this site from Bella Online to compare pet policies for major airlines like Continental, Air France, British Airways, JetBlue, Southwest, United and more. Dog owners can find helpful phone numbers, policy regulations and pricing information if it applies.
17. Before traveling, take a long walk: The Dog Whisperer, Cesar Milan, notes that it is important to take your dog on a long walk before leaving for the airport or packing up the car. Dogs need to use up as much energy as possible so that they won’t mind (as much) being confined for longer periods of time than they’re used to.
18. Give your dog access to water: While most experts recommend limiting your dog’s access to food for several hours before a plane or car trip, your dog should be able to drink enough water before traveling. If you’re traveling by car, pack your dog’s water bowl in a convenient spot so that you can fill it up whenever you stop. When you fly, give your dog access to water as soon as you can pick him up after landing. Pack a collapsible bowl to fill up with a water bowl so that your dog doesn’t have to wait until you get to the hotel. It could take a long time to help your dog recover from dehydration.
19. Take a good look at your itinerary: If all of your vacation plans include non dog-friendly activities, maybe you should consider leaving your dog in a kennel. Do you really want to take the dog along because you think it will be a fun experience for both of you, or are you simply afraid of leaving him with strangers? Unless you revise your travel itinerary so that you include trips to the dog park and hikes through the woods, your dog will be much happier staying in a kennel where he gets frequent attention than he will sitting in your hotel room alone all day.
20. Give your dog extra attention: Your dog will undoubtedly feed off of your excitement during the vacation, but make sure to pay extra attention to your pet than you normally would at home. In a strange place, your dog depends on you even more to feed him, take him to the bathroom, make sure he’s comfortable, and give him an extra pat or two on the head.

Anyone who has visited an airport in the past few years knows that airport security, though a necessity, can be a huge hassle. Long lines, pat downs, and even the occasional full luggage search can break down even the most stalwart of travelers and sometimes even results in missed flights. While you may not be able to do a thing about long lines or random security checks, there are ways you can make airport security a little less painful for yourself and speed up the process as much as possible so that you can get through and back on your way to your next exciting (or perhaps not so exciting) destination.

1. Check to see what items are banned. Before you embark on your journey, check with your airline or the TSA to see what you’ll be allowed to bring in a carry on, what you’ll have to stow in a checked in bag, and what simply isn’t allowed to be brought on a flight.
2. Remove every possible metal item from your person before walking through the metal detector. There are any number of things that you could be carrying that might set off the metal detector and hold up the line. Empty out your pockets, including your wallet, remove your belt, and any kind of jewelry you might be wearing. To speed things along, prepare before you reach the checkpoint by putting your items into a small clear plastic baggy.
3. Wear easy to remove shoes. You would think that most people would know to wear easily removable shoes on a flight by now, but there are always those few that are laced and buckled up to a ridiculous degree and end up holding up the line. Don’t be that person, wear slip ons or a comfortable alternative.
4. Prepare your electronics. To go through security you must remove your phones, PDAs and laptops from your bags and place them in a separate container. Have them stowed in your luggage in such a way that makes this easy, and pull them out before reaching the front of the line. You should also be prepared to turn them on, so make sure your laptop has at least a little charge remaining.
5. Make sure all your luggage has appropriate tags. While it may or may not be checked, make sure it’s clear that your luggage in fact belongs to you. Unsuspecting travelers could be duped into carrying dangerous items aboard, so clearly mark your bags with your name and phone number your your own tags or ones that the airline provides so that there won’t be any confusion.
6. Put your belongings on the conveyor as soon as possible. Don’t be that person who gets to the front of the line and then seems surprised to find that they must empty their pockets, remove their shoes, and take out their laptop. Be prepared when you get to the front and put your stuff in those little bins as soon as you get close enough.
7. Keep a photo ID handy. You should always have a photo ID, whether a drivers license or a passport, in an easily accessible place. Security may check to make sure that the name on the ID matches the name on your ticket, so purchasing a wallet for travel that holds both can greatly simplify matters.
8. Don’t lock checked bags. While TSA approved locks are permitted, regular old suitcase locks are not, as bags may need to be checked or searched. To prevent locks from being cut off and compromising the security of your items within, not to mention holding up your bag, purchase an approved lock ahead of time.
9. Dress appropriately. This may sound like a silly bit of advice, but you’ll save yourself a great deal of trouble if you aren’t wearing something that just screams "troublemaker" or makes you look suspicious. You’ll undoubtedly be subject to greater hassles from security and maybe even your airline, as passengers have been removed from planes for wearing clothes that were too sexy or offensive. It may be unfair that security gets to police your fashion choices, but you’ll move through much more quickly if you work with it and not against it.
10. Consider joining the Clear program. Frequent travelers may benefit from joining a program like Clear (for a fee, of course) to help them speed more quickly through security lines. Members have their IDs, photographs, fingerprints and iris images scanned beforehand and are given a special pass which they present along with their fingerprints to security fast lanes. You’ll still have to go through all the scanners, but you could speed things up by about 30%.
11. Don’t make small talk with others before you get through security. While this doesn’t advocate being rude to your fellow passengers, it’s best not to make friends at the airport, at least not until you’ve actually got onto your flight. Many people may seem nice, but have ulterior motives and when they ask you if anyone else might have handled or put something in your luggage, you’ll want to be able to definitively say no.
12. Bring along some clear plastic baggies. You can help speed up through the line by making use of some simple sandwich baggies when going through security. Place all allowable liquids in your carry on into one, as well as all items from your pockets into another so they’ll be easy for security to check and easy for you to keep track of.
13. Keep your medications in their original containers. While medications are exempt from many of the rules that apply to other small items, you can still come under questioning if you store your medication in a day-by-day container instead of in its original packaging. Make it easy on yourself by bringing along the packaging that has your name on it, even if it’s bulkier than your other pill container.
14. Remove your coat and shoes before you’re the next in line. When you see that you’re approaching the front of the line, begin removing your jacket and shoes. You might have to walk a few feet in your socks, but you’ll be ready to go when your turn comes and hopefully get in and out of the scanners quickly.
15. Allow yourself some extra time. Airport security, even at its speediest, can take a long time on busy traveling days. To avoid the hassle of missed flights, arrive at least 2 hours before you plane leaves, 3 if you want to be safe, and try to arrange connecting flights with enough time in between so you won’t be left behind if you’re delayed.
16. Don’t wear a lot of jewelry. Keep it simple when traveling and save your best jewelry for another day. Some jewelry like watches frequently set off the metal detectors, and with increased sensitivity of the machines, other things that might have passed previously will start the bells a-ringing as well. It’s better to stow these items in your carry on or personal bag.
17. Don’t try to be funny. The hard and fast rule at the airport is that nothing involving your luggage, you or anyone else being a danger to a flight even in the most ridiculous manner is funny. You can expect to be greatly delayed or even arrested if you try to get a laugh out of security personnel with this kind of talk, as even a baby was thrown off of a recent flight for suggesting that a plane go "bye-bye".
18. Leave gifts unwrapped. If you’ve bought gifts for others on your trip make sure to leave them unwrapped in your luggage. If security needs to check them, they’ll have to tear apart that lovely gift wrap instead of your little niece or nephew.
19. Watch bags very carefully. This should go without saying, but it bears repeating. Always have your bag with you at all times, no matter how awkward or uncomfortable it may be. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
20. If you’re not sure, ask before you get there. If you aren’t sure of the regulations for international travel, the size of your carry on, or just what kind of liquids are allowed on a plane, check the website of the airport you’re departing from or ask your airline. If you’re still unsure, give them a call. It’s better to check beforehand than to get held up debating the issue when you’ve got a flight to catch.
21. Avoid duty free items. While the appeal of tax free alcohol and cologne may be hard to resist, when traveling internationally these can cause you a huge hassle. Duty free items in Europe are packaged in tamper evident bags or boxes which are allowed to easily travel between cities. Unluckily for US bound travelers, this type of packaging won’t pass muster, so if you’ve got a connecting flight you’ll have to find a way to store your unacceptable liquids in your checked luggage, which is a huge hassle and likely not worth the few dollars you saved. Avoid purchasing items like these until you’re safely on your way out of the airport.
22. Limit food items. While there are many food items that are allowed on board without too much question, there are those that skirt the line of being too gel-like to be allowed through. So while it might seem like a good idea to bring along some mashed potatoes from your Thanksgiving dinner, it’s likely that they won’t be allowed through. Save yourself the trouble and limit the food you bring or check beforehand to see if it will be permitted.
23. Know the rules when traveling internationally. While many of the rules are the same, make sure there aren’t any special circumstances or rules that apply when you travel to another country. Security threats cause airport guidelines to change frequently, so stay informed even when you’re away.
24. Fly with airlines that are forgiving. No matter what you do, sometimes there is no way around being held up in security. To avoid a ridiculous amount of headache and hassle, fly with an airline that makes it easy to switch to another flight in the event that this happens. Sometimes this might cost a little more, but it can be well worth it not to get stuck languishing in an airport.
25. Use common sense. Above all, don’t be a moron about security. It isn’t going to get any less tight anytime soon, so do your best to work with the system instead of against it by being prepared, knowing the rules, and not doing incredibly stupid things like joking about bombs.

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, airport security is a fact of life. You’d probably rather not deal with it, but it doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience. The key is to know the rules and be prepared before you get there. Follow these guidelines for a stress-free screening experience the next time you take to the skies.

• Take an early flight

  Early birds enjoy more than fewer flight delays: they get to be first in line at security. Monday mornings are even better, as lines are generally populated with ultra-efficient business travelers who know what they’re doing. Some airport security screenings open as early as 4 AM.

• Keep your paperwork up to date

  Have you forgotten to renew your driver’s license? I can tell you from personal experience that if that’s the case, you’d better be prepared for a second screening. Anyone without a valid government ID will be subject to extra security screenings that take longer and are more invasive. This generally means they’ll look through your carry on and have you go through a physical pat-down or puff test.

• Check wait times before you leave

  If you take a look at TSA’s average wait estimates, you’ll be able to figure out a good time to get to the airport. As an added bonus, you may even be clued in to smaller security checkpoints that are less utilized and therefore less crowded.

• Become a Registered Traveler

  Under the Registered Traveler program, you can pay a fee and have your background checked to get registered. You’ll then get credentials that give you access to reserved security lanes and shorter lines. Registered Travelers are also allowed to keep coats and shoes on as well as leave laptops in their bags. However, this program has been criticized for privacy problems, specifically the extent of information that is collected about a traveler.

• Be prepared

  This is simple: pay attention and be ready to go through security. If you’re still on the phone when you get to the metal detector, you’re going to cause problems for everyone, including yourself. Empty your pockets into your carry on, hang up your phone, and get your ID and boarding pass out for inspection.

• Leave your box cutters at home

  Sharp objects like box cutters, ice picks, and swords are all on the TSA’s prohibited list. Even if you only brought the item by accident, it will get confiscated and you’ll be treated with extreme suspicion at best. Other items that are regarded similarly are baseball bats, guns, ammunition, and tools like hammers and crowbars. If you absolutely must have one of these items, check to see if you can put it in your checked luggage, as many items are permitted this way.

• Don’t bring explosives, either

  This should go without saying, but items like hand grenades and lighter fluid are a no-go. Basically, anything that can blow up or create a fire. So if you’re thinking about smuggling fireworks back from China, think again. These items can’t even be checked.

• Take your shoes off

  Yes, it’s a little gross and somewhat humiliating, but taking your shoes off is just part of the process now. Don’t raise a stink about it, either: the screeners don’t make the policy and they can’t do anything about it but enforce the rules. Complaining just makes you look suspicious. Wear socks or protective booties to create a barrier between you and the floor if you have a problem with the germs.

• Take off your belt and large jewelry while you’re at it

  This is old-school airport security advice, but it’s still important. Don’t be the person who has to walk through the metal detector five times, taking off one item at a time until you make it through. Make it easier on yourself, your screeners, and fellow passengers by removing items that will probably set off the metal detector. This includes belts, watches, cuff links, and keys. If you have body jewelry, consider taking it off before you even get to the airport. Otherwise, you may be subject to a pat-down inspection, or have to get out of line to remove the items in private.

• Don’t stuff your carry on

  If you end up going through a second screening, your carry on will be inspected. So if you’ve got it stuffed to the gills, it’s going to be a pain to get everything out and back in again. Pack lighter and consider placing items in plastic bags so they’re easier to handle and organize.

• Put liquids and gels in a baggie

  Certainly you’ve heard of this by now, but passengers are required to limit liquids and gels to containers that are three ounces or smaller. These items must be placed in a quart size plastic bag with a zip top, and you can only use one. Be sure to keep it out and place it separate from your other items when going through screening. Many airports offer bags outside of their checkpoints, but it’s generally easier to take care of this step before you leave home. Otherwise, you may find yourself scrambling through your bag at the last minute.

• Mind your electronics

  Take your laptop, camera, DVD player, and other electronics out of your bag and put them in a bin to make it easier for agents to inspect them. It also pays to keep everything on, especially laptops, in case the screener needs you to verify that it’s working. You don’t want to have to wait for things to get booted up.

• Don’t be a smartass

  Joking about having a bomb or gun might seem like a funny way to pass wait times, but doing so will make things very serious very fast. Security will be all over you, as they’re trained to zero in on these words. You’ll even be subject to prison time and/or a fine. Stick to jokes about cattle or sardines instead.

• Be nice

  Screeners are people too, and they’re working to keep you safe. Be polite and cooperative, and you just might have a more pleasant airport security experience. There’s no reason to be a jerk to the people that protect you.

Taking children on a plane could be the most hectic part of your entire vacation. Managing snack time, keeping them quiet, taking trips back and forth to the bathroom, and conquering the ear-popping phenomenon are just some of the struggles you’ll have to deal with. Keeping your kids entertained, though, will be a no-brainer with these fun games and activities that are also airplane appropriate.

Games and Electronics

From Mad Libs to DVDs, these games and electronics will keep your kids focused on fun during the plane trip.

1. Leapster Learning Game System: A variety of Leapster games are compatible with this system, which is designed to develop your child’s basic "school skills" while keeping them entertained. The device is handheld for easy packing.
2. 20 Questions Junior: This travel-sized 20 Q game is perfect for younger children, ages 8 and up.
3. Touch Chess and Checkers: Playing regular chess or checkers on an airplane is a terrible idea, but this electronic version allows the competition to continue even when you’re on the plane. Kids can play with each other or against the machine, and the Game Save feature will pause your game if you have to quickly shut it off during takeoff or landing.
4. Travel Candyland: Little kids love Candyland, and this travel-size version makes it possible to play even when you’re in the air.
5. Magnetic Travel Games: These magnetic travel kits like Magnet Dress Up, Tangrams and a collection of dinosaur scenes will keep game pieces from falling beneath the seats.
6. Electronic Mad Libs: This family favorite has a new twist: it now comes in an electronic version! Pressing different buttons results in kooky new word combinations that will keep your kids giggling during the trip.
7. DVDs: One of these portable DVD players could keep your kids quiet for the entire flight. Plug in headphones so that they can enjoy the movie or doze off without disturbing other passengers.
8. Card Games: Card games may sound too traditional for your technologically-savvy children, but they’ll love learning the new games from this site.
9. Disney Mix Max Player: This mp3 player is especially designed for kids, who will love listening to music, watching videos, or looking at pictures from their very own portable player.
10. Games and Activity Sheets: Child Parenting at About.com publishes lots of different games and activity sheets that you can print out for your kids to color on the plane.

Books and Magazines

These magazines and activity books come with fun games, coloring projects and other cool crafts that will occupy your kids during the trip.

11. Highlights Magazine: This traditional favorite continues to publish issues full of word puzzles, stories, crafts and comics.
12. Ultimate Sticker Book Series: Kids of all ages will love playing with stickers in the Star Wars, Disney Princesses, Dora the Explorer or Transformer sticker books.
13. National Geographic Kids: This magazine is packed full of colorful pictures and stories about animals, the environment and adventure-filled fun for children ages 8-14.
14. Nickelodeon Fun Puzzles and Games: Keep the little ones busy with the word searches, riddles, puzzles and other games found in this kids-only book.
15. Kids @ Random: This Random House site recommends the best books for children from preschool aged to teens.
16. Ramona and Henry Huggins books: This list of classic children’s books include the Ramona Quimby and Henry Huggins books, which will keep boys and girls engrossed for hours.
17. Make your own coloring books: Instead of buying another coloring book for your kids, let them pick out their own coloring pages from this website. Once you’ve printed them all out, staple them together to make a custom-designed booklet.
18. The Everything Crossword and Puzzle Book: This book of "brain-teasing fun" is full of puzzles and crosswords for "puzzlers at all levels."

Other Creative Activities

Here are some additional ideas and games to keep your children entertained while you’re in the sky.

19. Scavenger Hunt on the Plane: This clever game from FamilyFun.com challenges your kids to find items like sleeping passengers, a red dress, dessert, a mustache, and more.
20. Finger puppets: Have fun making finger puppets before your trip, and then pack them in your carry on for silly fun on the plane. Take turns putting on finger puppet plays with your new friends.
21. Create a Travel Journal: Encourage your kids to keep a journal of your trip. They can write about the flight, draw pictures of the places they visited, and tape mementos like museum tickets to the pages. If you didn’t have the time to maintain the journal in your hotel, the plane is the perfect place to catch up on your craft.
22. Create your own snacks: Chances are, your kids are going to be hungry way before that snack cart comes rolling down the aisle. Bring your own kid-friendly snacks that you can assemble from your seat. Ants on a log (minus the messy peanut butter) is just one idea.
23. Pack a surprise: Packing a surprise present for your child will create a delightful distraction from the boring airplane. A toy car, stuffed animal, or even a favorite toy from home wrapped up like a present will do the trick.
24. Take pictures: Use a disposable or digital camera to take pictures during the flight. Your kids will have fun posing for funny pictures to document their trip. Just make sure you use the flash as sparingly as possible; otherwise, you’ll disturb the other passengers.
25. Colorforms Silly Faces Stick-Ons Game: Kids can stick on and peel off colorforms to create silly faces over and over again.
26. Make a map of your flight path: Help your kids draw a map of the flight path you’re taking. You can trace a map of the region you’re traveling through ahead of time, and then try to guess which state or country you’re flying over at any given time.
27. Build a fort with blankets and pillows: Without hogging all of the pillows and blankets on the airplane, let your kids pitch a tent in their seats. With any luck, they’ll eventually get cozy enough to fall asleep!

In a perfect world, babies and children would fall asleep the minute they ease into their airplane seats. In the real world, parents have to struggle to keep their kids from crying, bouncing around in the aisles and spilling their drinks all over themselves. With these nifty games and activities, though, you can keep your children entertained and under control for (hopefully!) the entire flight.