Airlines offering spring break travel deals

By Jane McCarthy

SEATTLE - Good news if you're anxious to fly away for a vacation. Airlines are waging an unexpected fare war.

The expectation was that there would be very few deals for spring break travel this year. Airlines have cut flights in order to cut costs. Fares overall are a bit higher this year compared to last, but demand is lower than expected, which means you can save some money.

It's been a long, trying winter, and we can't blame you if you want to ride a different kind of wave.

So if you want to break away for spring break, the good news is you can do it on the cheap.

"Two things happened: Oil came down, but the economy tanked. So now what's happened, they are flying fewer seats but they're having a little more difficulty this year filling those seats up," said Steve Danishek, travel expert.

Many airlines are being more aggressive with their deals this year, allowing you to buy a cheaper ticket further in advance. That means you could snatch up spring break deals today.

In order to cruise for the lowest fares, try looking at places like Expedia.com or Travelocity.com first, but don't stop there.

"Then go directly to that airlines Web site to test and make sure you are getting the best and lowest fare," said Danishek.

And once you get to that sunny spot, more hotels are offering a couple nights free. But you might want to get the deals while they're hot - you're not the only one who wants to get out of dodge.

"We are seeing a spike in last minute bookings, people saying I gotta' get out of here," said Danishek.

http://www.king5.com/localnews/stories/NW_011609WAB-airfare-sales-LJ.b61fb98.html