"These aren't general promotions like those offered by Expedia," says Anne Banas, the executive editor of SmarterTravel, a website that offers travel news, deals, and advice. "Once they're gone, they're gone. If you can act fast and combine several deals, you can create an itinerary for a fraction of the usual price."
For example, a recent search on Groupon.com for the Boston area turned up a $200 discount for a one-night stay at the Castle Hill Resort & Spa in Cavendish, Vt.; a $15 savings on dinner at Cala's in Manchester-by-the-Sea; and $17 off an all-inclusive bike tour of Boston, tune-up included. Although those deals are no longer available, discounts are added daily.
Banas recommends using Groupon and similar websites, such as Jetsetter.com and LivingSocial.com, to get connected with limited-run discount packages on hotels, restaurants, and other services in major U.S. cities - including Philadelphia.
But first, you have to decide where you want to go and how you want to get there. Rising gas prices are driving up the cost not only of hitting the road, but also of flying and, in some cases, cruising, as well.
Experts say airfares are likely to increase with rising fuel costs. While this increase is usually built into domestic ticket prices, international flights have started to add fuel surcharges.
This doesn't mean that airlines will be getting rid of their summer sales. You're just going to have to look harder to find them.
Airlines have started using flash sales - offering discounted fares for only a few hours, usually without much notice. Staying connected is the key to snagging such deals, says George Hobica, the president of AirfareWatchdog.com.
"These sales are almost always promoted through social media," he says. "Following the airlines on Twitter or signing up for Web alerts is the best way to get the jump on other travelers."
