3. Bundle your airfare and hotel together with a package

Of course, it doesn't always pay to go a la carte. A few years ago, I purchased my airfare and hotel together as part of a Seattle vacation package through Travelocity, and I saved nearly $80. To determine if a package is a good deal for your upcoming trip, compare the cost of your airfare and hotel purchased individually against the latest package offerings from major travel suppliers. Be sure to conduct a true comparison—look at similar flights and hotels between both the a-la-carte and bundled offerings to determine actual costs. And don't forget to factor in all taxes and fees for both options.