Book your flight as early as possible. The minute you can confirm your dates, get on several booking sites and start looking for the cheapest airfare. Most will offer alerts if the fare drops. If you allow yourself enough time, you may be able to save a few hundred dollars this way.

As soon as your departure nears the six-week mark, purchase your ticket. While it's sometimes possible to get a last-minute deal, you're far more likely to pay a last-minute premium.

If you're a student or under-26, you may qualify for reduced airfare through STA Travel.

Look below for links to top travel sites with budget airfare.