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FLIGHTS
Skyscanner's ability to search "Everywhere" or within a specific country is the first place to start when planning your next trip. You can also download the Skyscanner mobile app to search on the go. Google Flights is another good airfare search engine to compare rates against. Don't forget to check the airline's own website for any last-minute deals.
Read my interview with Brit + Co in which I share some of my favorite packing tips.
Travel Independent's Budget Airline list is a great resource because not all domestic and international low-cost carriers appear on the airfare search engines listed above.
Stuck at a hub and unsure what your options are for going home? Airfare Watchdog has compiled all Airline Routes for you.
The list of banned airlines in the EU will have you think twice about that little known carrier in the middle of nowhere.
Don't know where to go? Try Kayak's Explore feature, which lets you cast a greater search net based on your interests.
Skyscanner has an"Everywhere" option in the destination field, which opens up a world of possibilities (similar to Kayak's Explore feature).
Hopper will give you a general idea of what is a good airfare deal and what isn't, check out the "Reports" feature. Their app alerts you when airfare drops, even in the middle of the night, which is the best way to find a great deal.
Flights similarly priced but on different airlines? The Skytrax A to Z listing of airline quality might help you decide between the two.
Special offers are often available when booking flights directly on the airlines' websites, including JetBlue, United, American Airlines, Southwest, Frontier, Alaska Airlines, Virgin America, and Delta.
Most airlines have a 24 hour ticket cancellation policy, allowing you some flexibility with regards to canceling the ticket you've just purchased to take advantage of a good deal on airfare (or train fare).
FlightStats and Flight Aware will highlight statistics, including percentage of on-time arrivals, of specific flights.
Federal Aviation Administration: Flight Delays provides a quick at-a-glance view of what U.S. airports are facing delays.
Seatguru shares more information about the configuration of seats on the flight you're about to book.
Know your rights! Download the Smarter Travel Air Passenger Rights PDF and read it before you travel.
BUS, CAR & RAIL
Wanderu compares bus and rail rates in the U.S. northeast.
The Man in Seat 61 is the best resource for rail travel around the world.
HyperDia lists rail pass and train times in Japan.
Use an online travel agency like Kayak or CarRentals.com to search for a rental car. Compare the cost of taking public transport, like a train or taxi, to a car rental location that is further away from an airport (because airport locations almost always have the highest rates).
