Read this first

All rates and packages are accurate and available as of press time. If we get consistent feedback that an operator is pulling a bait and switch, we'll drop them. Our deadlines make it impossible to include last-minute offers, so compare the rates listed here with booking engines and tour operators to be sure you're getting the very best price possible.

What's not in the price

Service fees, security and passenger-facility charges, and visa costs are not included. Hotel, car rental, and airport taxes are generally not covered either. Such extra charges vary widely: $50 or less for a trip in the U.S., $50-$100 for the Caribbean and Mexico, $75-$125 for western Europe, $300 and up for spots where visas alone cost $100 or more (like Brazil and Russia). Also, most rates are based on midweek airfare; weekend travel can raise the price $100 or more each way. Port charges (for cruises) are almost always extra.

Be flexible

Prices depend on travel dates, and there's no guarantee your preferred dates will be available. (You can forget scoring a sweet deal around the holidays.) Once the least expensive options sell out, operators typically offer the next best price for the dates you've requested. Having a flexible schedule increases the odds of finding the lowest price.

Single travelers

Unless otherwise stated, all rates listed are per person, based on two people traveling together and sharing a room. Whenever possible, we list the single supplement--the fee you have to pay, in addition to the base price, taxes, and other charges, to get the total cost for going it alone.

Itinerary changes

Adding and subtracting nights is usually possible, for a price. The extra-night rate we list is per person, based on two people sharing a room. Also, most operators will adapt packages to suit your needs--bundling tours, excursions, meals, and entertainment--for an additional cost.

Take some responsibility

Hotels will be clean and safe, offering the basics for a basic price. Locations vary; the lowest-price hotels may not be in the center of town or right on the beach. Cruise prices are usually based on inside cabins. We encourage you to do your own research to avoid disappointment. There are many websites (TripAdvisor and Epinions, for example) that offer reviews of hotels, vacations, and cruises. If you don't like what you see, upgrades to better hotels are almost always available.