Ask the Travel Expert: Join Author Nikki Vargas for a Live Q&A on November 2

Ask the Travel Expert: Join Author Nikki Vargas for a Live Q&A on November 2 - Saving on Airfare Using Lesser Known Search Engines

When it comes to booking flights, most travelers flock to the big names like Expedia, Priceline and Kayak. But relying solely on major search engines can cause you to miss out on great deals that are only surfaced on lesser-known sites. I've found some of my best airfares through niche engines that specialize in uncovering hidden discounts and mistake fares.

One of my favorites is Skiplagged, which utilizes clever routing techniques to uncover pricing loopholes. For example, say you want to fly from New York to Miami. Skiplagged might show you options that involve a layover in Orlando, even though you never leave the airport. This "hidden city" ticketing takes advantage of the fact that airlines often price flights with a connection cheaper than nonstop routes. While not ideal for all travelers, it's a clever way to save.

For European trips, I swear by Kiwi.com. This Czech-based site excels at mixing and matching budget carriers across the continent to create custom itineraries. Instead of being limited to the routes and partners of a single airline, you can build multistop trips using various ultra-low cost operators. The tradeoff is that Kiwi books each leg separately, so your itinerary won't be linked. But the massive savings make it worth it.

My go-to for far-flung destinations is JustFly. It combs through thousands of consolidator fares that don't show up on other sites. These discounted bulk tickets are targeted at ethnic travelers, but anyone can book them. I recently scored an LAX to Manila roundtrip for just $260—several hundred dollars cheaper than other engines. The only catch was I had to pick up my ticket at the consolidator's office versus the airport. A small price to pay for such savings.

When money is no object, I use Private Jet Search. This members-only site partners with charter jet operators to combine empty leg flights at a fraction of the cost. While still pricey, it opens up private aviation to those without seven figure budgets. I've flown from Los Angeles to Aspen for under $3k per person—cheaper than some commercial first class tickets. The experience is unmatched, with personalized service and unrestricted schedules.

Ask the Travel Expert: Join Author Nikki Vargas for a Live Q&A on November 2 - Navigating Complex Airline Loyalty Programs

Frequent flyer programs seem simple enough—earn miles on flights and redeem for free trips. But dig deeper and you’ll find a labyrinth of elite tiers, obscure partners, and convoluted rules governing mileage accrual and awards. Successfully navigating these systems requires strategy and know-how.

The first challenge is simply keeping track of points balances and elite status progress across multiple airlines. Apps like AwardWallet make this easier by consolidating all your rewards accounts in one dashboard. This gives you an instant snapshot of where you stand with each program and how close you are to the next tier.

Understanding airline alliances is also key. Members of the same alliance earn and redeem miles across partner airlines. For example, a United elite can access priority lines when flying Lufthansa. So focus on your preferred alliance programs to maximize perks and points.

Don’t become blinded by chasing status without considering the benefits. Some lower tiers provide minimal value beyond priority boarding. Study elite requirements and decide if reaching the next level is worth the time and money required.

Award travel is where the real payoff lies. But complex award charts make it tough to discern the best use of miles. Broadly, longer haul business and first class tickets deliver outsized value. Don’t waste miles on short economy hops where cash prices are cheap.

Finally, look for sweet spots like stopovers on one-way awards and open-jaws, which allow you to fly into one city and out of another. Combining multiple award tickets into a single trip using these tricks can unlock dream itineraries.

Ask the Travel Expert: Join Author Nikki Vargas for a Live Q&A on November 2 - Finding Under-the-Radar Destinations in Europe

While Paris, London, and Rome are fabulous, Europe's charm lies in its small towns and lesser-known locales that most tourists overlook. Venturing off the predictable city circuit reveals a different side of Europe that feels undiscovered, even if that just means undiscovered by you. Seek out these under-the-radar gems for an authentic local experience minus the crowds.

Northern Spain epitomizes old world charm with medieval towns adorned in flowers and endless acres of vineyards ripe for leisurely tours and tastings. Trade crowded Barcelona for breezy Bilbao to ogle architectural marvels like the swooping Guggenheim Museum. Or head inland to sample full-bodied Tempranillos in the Rioja countryside, stopping to indulge in pintxos and tapas along the way.

Looking for alpine adventure without the glitz of Switzerland? Slovenia delivers jaw-dropping mountain scenery and charming villages where you can hike to your heart's content. Base yourself in lively Ljubljana before venturing into the Julian Alps. Ride the panoramic open-air cable car up Mount Vogel for Instagram-worthy views of Lake Bohinj. The hiking trails deliver payoffs like Savica Waterfall and serene Planina Pri Jezeru pasture.

Prefer a beachy escape? Algarve, Portugal has breathtaking coastline and laidback vibes without French Riviera pretense. Beyond crowded Lagos are colorful fishing villages turned surf towns like Praia da Luz and Sagres. Seek out secluded coves and sea caves reachable only by boat. Don't miss the dramatic cliffs and lapping waves of Praia do Camilo and Praia de Marinha.

Venture beyond Italy's greatest hits to Le Marche on the Adriatic Coast, where charming seaside villages overlook azure waters. Ascoli Piceno charms with marble piazzas and a maze of covered walkways. Continue along the Strada della Romagna hiking path to discover secluded beaches and quaint towns like Grottammare. Inland, medieval fortresses and churches crown hilltops encircled by olive groves and vineyards.

Trading Paris for understated Amiens transports you back to Jules Verne's 1870s France. Stroll the "hortillonnages" floating gardens on the Somme River for a peaceful perspective of the cathedral towering above. Nearby, WW1 history comes alive at the Somme Battlefields memorials. Or time travel to prehistory at the Caverne du Dragon where quarry workers discovered cave drawings dating back 12,000 years.

Ask the Travel Expert: Join Author Nikki Vargas for a Live Q&A on November 2 - Maximizing Credit Card Rewards for Free Flights

Earning free flights through credit card rewards is the holy grail for frequent travelers. But simply signing up for a couple travel cards won’t get you far. Maximizing points and perks requires strategy to extract maximum value. Treat it like a part-time job and you’ll fly in style for less.

Reddit forums like r/churning are filled with super users extracting hundreds of thousands of points from sign-up bonuses. They open specific cards every few months to capitalize on initial rewards then cancel before annual fees hit. This aggressive churning can earn serious points quickly but requires meticulous planning.

A simpler approach is to focus on cards that align with your typical spending. Make everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and bills on a rewards card that boosts points for those categories. Even casual spending can generate a steady points stream. Set your card as the default on accounts like Netflix and Spotify to passive earn.

Check portals like Chase Ultimate Rewards which let you boost point earnings by shopping through their links. Dining programs like CapitalOne Culinary Rewards also gift points for eating out. These little extras add up.

Redeeming strategically is equally important. Use points for high value awards like international business class tickets which can cost $5k+ if paying cash. Don’t waste points on low-cost domestic economy flights.

Transferable points are prized for their flexibility. Programs like American Express Membership Rewards let you move points to various airline and hotel partners. This increases award options. Partners run sales that discount award rates so transfer timing matters.

Being loyal also pays. Focus earning and redemptions in one program to elevate status. Higher elite tiers provide perks like lounge access and mileage bonuses. Prioritize your preferred airline accordingly.

Ask the Travel Expert: Join Author Nikki Vargas for a Live Q&A on November 2 - Avoiding Extra Fees and Charges When Booking Hotels

Hidden hotel fees are the bane of budget travelers' existence. You think you've scored an affordable rate only to get ambushed by daily destination charges, resort fees, early check-in fees - the list goes on. These annoying extras can quickly torpedo your hotel savings. But armed with insider knowledge, you can dodge these fees and enjoy true value.

The most prevalent fee is the so-called "resort fee", typically $25-$45 per night that hotels tack on to cover "amenities" like pool access, wifi, and gym use. It's basically a way to advertise lower room rates then surprise you at checkout. Shady, but legal. Some destinations like Las Vegas and parts of Hawaii are notorious for these fees. But less obvious places like Denver and Austin hotels have gotten in on the surcharge game too. So what's a budget traveler to do?

Avoiding these fees requires diligent research. Opaque booking sites like Priceline and Hotwire never break out additional charges. To reveal the true nightly cost, always book directly on the hotel's website. Call the front desk if fees aren't clearly disclosed online. Some resorts waive the fees for elite members, so status pays off. If you must book third party, Kayak is the most upfront about additional charges.

Destination fees, often called "facilities fees", are similar to resort fees but go to the city versus the hotel. Many cities claim these fees fund improvements and tourism promotion. But to visitors, they basically just feel like a shake down. Chicago, DC, and Boston all levy these fees ranging $3-$20 per night. Again, booking directly allows you to factor them into the real nightly cost.

The dread early check-in fee is another budget buster. Most hotels won't allow check-in before 3-4pm unless you pay an extra fee, usually around $20-$40. Late night red eye arrival? Too bad, fork it over. There are a few ways around this. Status can help - elites sometimes get waived early check-in fees. Luxury hotels are also less likely to impose them than budget chains. Calling the front desk to nicely ask doesn't always work but may get you considerations on busy days.

Using points can also skirt resort and destination fees, especially if you book through the Chase travel portal. Award bookings treat these add-ons as "taxes and fees" that can't be charged on a free night certificate. Of course, top tier accommodations deliver the best fee-free value if you have points to spare.

Ask the Travel Expert: Join Author Nikki Vargas for a Live Q&A on November 2 - Using Alternative Lodging Options to Save Money

When booking accommodations, travelers are conditioned to default to the major hotel chains. But limiting your search to Hiltons and Marriotts means you’re likely leaving savings on the table. Venturing outside the traditional hospitality space can unlock affordable lodging options you never knew existed. As someone obsessed with maximizing value, I’m always on the hunt for creative ways to experience destinations for less. Here are a few of my favorite alternative lodging hacks.

Glamping has been a game changer, delivering resort amenities, epic locations, and next-level design at a fraction of the cost of hotels. We’re talking luxury tents with real beds, stylish furnishings, private bathrooms and decks overlooking stunning vistas for around $100-$300 per night. Platforms like Under Canvas and Collective Retreats operate glamping camps near top national parks and outdoor destinations. Rates include chef-prepared meals - something you won’t find at a Hampton Inn.

Vacation rental platforms like VRBO and Vacasa provide access to amazing condos, beach houses, and cabins with full kitchens and separate bedrooms for less than a hotel. My go-to strategy is gathering a group to split larger homes, which can drive the nightly cost down to just $50-$100 per person. That nets so much more space and convenience than multiple hotel rooms. Home rentals in desirable locations can still get pricey in peak seasons, so search by filtering for lowest price to uncover hidden gems.

If you’re heading to a major city, branded apartment rentals through Sonder, WhyHotel and Mint House offer urban cool at a great price point. You get stylish, design-forward spaces with sleek kitchens in prime downtown locations. Nightly rates are comparable or even cheaper than big brand hotels a few blocks away. The value comes from direct booking versus paying marked up prices on third party sites. I’ve had great experiences using Sonder to book apartments in NYC, Chicago, Denver and other cities.

Peer-to-peer options like Airbnb offer similar benefits to vacation rentals and branded apartments but with more flexibility on locations and property types. Airbnbs can provide unique experiences like staying on a houseboat or in a treehouse for under $100 a night. I always toggle the map view and price filter when searching to uncover hidden spots. And don’t forget to check Airbnb’s “monthly stays” tab for deep discounts on longer bookings.

Ask the Travel Expert: Join Author Nikki Vargas for a Live Q&A on November 2 - Packing Light Without Sacrificing Essentials

Packing light is an art form, allowing travelers maximum mobility without forgoing necessities. I’ve honed my minimalist packing skills over years of perpetual vagabonding. Light luggage keeps you nimble, saves bag check fees, and prevents straining your back hauling massive suitcases. Here are my top tips for stripping down your luggage while still bringing key essentials.

First, build your wardrobe around versatile, quick-drying fabrics that enable endless mixing and matching. My go-to travel uniform is two pairs of pants - one jeans and one synthetic hiking pants that double as comfortable flight attire. Add two neutral-colored shirts, one long-sleeve and one short. These four items can be re-worn repeatedly.

Next, choose footwear double duty as both walking shoes and going-out kicks. A nice-looking pair of all birds or similar slip on sneakers fit the bill. Aim for darker colors to hide scuffs. One versatile pair beats packing flip flops, dress shoes, and gym shoes.

Don’t forget performance fabrics that pack down super small. I always pack one Icebreaker merino wool t-shirt which resists odor so it can be worn multiple days. A light Uniqlo down jacket provides warmth without adding bulk. Silk long underwear serves as pajamas and extra insulation when needed.

Toiletries and cosmetics are prime targets for downsizing. Refillable travel-size containers limit liquids while consolidating multipurpose products. Dr. Bronner’s castile soap pulls triple duty as body wash, shampoo, and shaving cream. Look for moisturizers and sunscreens that perform both functions. You don’t need a different product for every use.

Ditch the laptop if possible and just bring your phone plus a tablet like the ultralight iPad Air. Paying for lounge day passes or coworking spaces is worthwhile to avoid schlepping electronics. Noise-cancelling earbuds spare packing bulky headphones while enhancing the in-flight experience. A kindle is perfect for beach reads without weighing down your bag.

When it comes to gear, look for right-sized rather than one-size-fits-all items. A 20L packable day bag compresses to store in your main luggage then provides added capacity for overnight trips or shopping excursions. Small camera cubes keep your equipment safe and organized. Packing cubes in multiple sizes streamline separating clean from dirty clothing.

A final packing hack I swear by is wearing your heaviest items like shoes, jeans, and sweatshirt to avoid using precious bag space. Just be sure to check the weather at your destination to confirm it makes sense.

Ask the Travel Expert: Join Author Nikki Vargas for a Live Q&A on November 2 - Planning Multi-City Itineraries to Maximize Time

Planning a multi-city itinerary that makes the most of your limited time off requires strategy and savvy. But the payoff is huge - you can see ten places in two weeks rather than just two. The keys are minimizing backtracking, grouping destinations efficiently, and capitalizing on airfare sweet spots that make hopscotching between cities affordable.

I always start by mapping out my must-see destinations, then look at logical clusters. How can I group places in 2-4 night blocks? For a Central Europe trip, I'll pair Vienna and Budapest, then Prague and Berlin. That lets me make the most of my time versus tacking on day trips.

Next, I'll plug different routing options into Google Flights to reveal price differences. Often it's cheaper to book travel between cities separately rather than one long multi-city ticket. And sometimes flying "out and back" into a hub like London saves money even if it means slightly more time in transit.

If I'm seeing expensive one-way pricing between segments, I'll scour for open-jaw tickets. This means I fly into one city and depart from another, creating a perfect loop. For an Italy trip, I'll look for deals from New York to Rome, then returning from Florence. This avoids costly one-way flights between the cities.

I’m also religious about capitalizing on red eye flights to maximize days on the ground. Sure, they aren’t the most comfortable. But night flights from New York to Europe allow almost a full extra day to sightsee versus daytime departures. Over a 2-week trip, that can add up to nearly an extra week on the ground.

Once I’ve roughed out an efficient route, I’ll tweak dates and departure cities to uncover hidden deals. Indian carrier IndiGo randomly offers $200 roundtrips between Delhi and Europe. But you need to be flexible with timing and depart from secondary cities they serve like Toronto. These little tricks shave hundreds off multi-city trips.