Cut $100 from Your Monthly Budget (Plus More Expert Secrets)

How to Fly Cheaper

To find the cheapest day to fly, go to matrix.itasoftware.com, select "simple search options," then "see calendar of lowest fares," and enter your destination.

Before you buy a ticket, google "coupon code" and the airline name to see what deals turn up.

Upgrades can cost less than you might think. For example, with a full-fare economy ticket from American Airlines, you can request an upgrade on aa.com before you fly for $30 per 500 miles.

—Stephanie Rosenbloom, the Getaway columist for The New York Times