25 Solid-Gold Ways to Save

Find the cheapest airfare

The best time to find a low fare is in the morning, says Keith Melnick, vice president of travel site Kayak.com. Airfares are sometimes reset overnight, and the best pickings are available before East Coast workers get to the office. Look for flights departing Saturday, when fares are often cheapest; avoid Monday mornings and Thursday evenings, when flights are crowded with business travelers. Book as far in advance as possible—the chance of a price drop is slim, and should one occur, many airlines will credit you the difference upon request.