Remember all the great holiday travel bargains that started popping up about this time last year? Many were designed to encourage travel in the midst of an economic downturn. People who waited until the last minute to book a holiday trip often reaped some nice financial benefits.
As you search for low fares in 2009, don't count on a repeat of last year's good fortune. In fact, it's beginning to look like the opposite could be true this year.
The New York Times reports holiday airfares are on the rise. Michelle Higgins writes that modest increases since mid-September are in the 6-10 percent range, but she also cites other examples of individual fares up more than 50 percent during that time.
More bad news: Airlines such as American, Delta, United and US Airways have added a $10 surcharge to fares on the peak holiday travel periods such as the weekends after Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. Airlines are also cutting back on the number of seats available on certain routes.
It could add up to an interesting holiday season for budget travelers. It's possible many who traditionally visit relatives during this time won't change their travel patterns too much. But what about others who are considering a vacation during the holidays? Will many simply stay home rather than deal with soaring airfares? Vote in our poll and watch Deals of the Week, where I try to post a few last-minute offers that could save you money. As always -- but especially now -- if you find a good deal, book it immediately. Chances are good it will be gone in a flash.