If you’re like most families out there today, you probably want to visit friends and family during the holidays because who doesn’t?  The only problems with holidays is that the airline and hotel prices are generally very expensive.  Is there a way to get a cheaper rate?  Of course there is and let me show you how.

Try comparison websites – Before you go out and buy your ticket, try comparison websites like Kayak.  A website like Kayak will allow you to input where you want to go and it will give you some of the cheapest rates possible.

Try a local travel agency – I know a travel agency sounds like a thing of the past but you really can get some great deals from some of them.  Since most of them work on commission, it won’t cost you anything to walk into their doors and chat with them.  Go in there and see what they can do for you.  If they can beat the Internet price, go for it.  If they can’t, then tell them no thanks.

Always book directly- If you’re just getting a hotel room or an airline ticket, always try to book directly through the company itself.  Since websites like Orbitz, etc charge you a travel agent fee, you’re going to pay more using someone like that.  If you use the airline directly, you can avoid these fees.

Use sites like TravelZoo- TravelZoo is amazing for finding great deals anywhere around the globe.  Every Wednesday, they will release a top 20 deal for places everywhere from the United States to China.  It’s free to look and if you like some of the deals you see, go ahead and book.

Look for packages - If you plan on renting a car, booking a hotel and flying all during the trip, you may want to look into a packaged deal.  You’ll find that sometimes you’ll be able to get a discount when you use a particular website or service.  It’s always best to package everything rather than do it separately but it never hurts to try!

By using these resources above, it will not only help you save during the holidays but it will also help you save on everyday travel.  Try some of the ideas mentioned above and let’s hope you save up to 50%!