👀 You're overpaying for flights

August 7, 2026 | View Online

Are you guys the type of traveler to check out at the front desk? Or do you just leave your room key in the room and rush out?

I’m the former, and I’m feeling very vindicated by this article explaining why you should always check out at the front desk. Be a Good Samaritan and do the same because notifying staff you checked out might mean I get to check in earlier, and isn’t that what it’s all about—making things more convenient for me?

In today's edition:

• Your weekend to-do list

• Stop overpaying for flights

• All the travel news you may have missed

Spread the word,

Arijana

Still deciding your weekend plans? Whether you're staying in or jetting off on an adventure, we have you covered. Here’s your weekend to-do list:

🍇 Still trying to squeeze in one more quick summer getaway? Consider visiting this newly restored winery in Napa and get 15% off on its tasting options.

🏨 If you’re using the weekend to search for a hotel stay, consult this list of last-minute hotel deals. 

🍽️ This weekend, I’m challenging you all to dine local. If you need some inspo, here is the best small-town restaurant in every state.

✅ If you’re staying home this weekend, here’s a fun video to curl up with. You might be a pro traveler, but see how many of these 41 useful travel skills you know or have used.

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You’re paying too much for flights—here’s how to stop

No, really, you are. But it’s okay, I have some tips for you that you can implement immediately and stop overpaying.

The main idea is simple: the cheapest flight on the screen often is not the cheapest trip by the time all costs are added. There are a few parameters, however, that make it a lot more likely that you’re booking a good deal. 

You can often cut flight costs by fixing five common mistakes: booking at the wrong time, checking only one site, ignoring nearby airports, sticking to fixed dates, and missing bag and seat fees.

I’d sum it up like this: for many U.S. trips, the best shot at a lower fare is about 28 to 60 days before departure for domestic flights and about 2 to 6 months out for international trips. 

The best thing you can do is compare prices across search tools and airline sites. Travelers who compare across several channels can save up to 30% compared with people who book from just one site. So here’s what you do: Use the best flight search engines to scan fares across airlines. Then check the full price on at least one airline site and one booking site.

Keep in mind that airport and date choice can also add hundreds to your trip total. Check your main airport for prices, but be sure to also check at least one backup airport to see if it’s cheaper to fly out from another hub.

When searching, try shifting your travel dates by 1 to 2 days to see how much it would affect your trip total. This is, of course, tougher when your dates aren’t as flexible, but do your best. 

Want to learn more money-saving tips? Click here to read our full breakdown.

OH NO! This is the thing of nightmares.

Having trouble keeping up with all the travel news? Don't worry, we have you covered with our travel news highlights. Here's what you need to know in case you missed it

• These items are the exception to the TSA liquids rule

• US State Dept. issues warning for this popular European country 

• Look at the sweet gift this Airbnb host prepared

• Birdwatching is having a sudden surge in popularity, here’s how to experience it for yourself

• I really appreciate how Romania is using its old salt mines

• These are the priciest zip codes around the world

📍 New Orleans, Louisiana

I know most pictures of New Orleans feature Mardi Gras beads, people playing jazz, or double-gallery houses, but I was absolutely mesmerized by the trees there. Every street had me awe-struck.

Want to send in your own travel pic? Click here to share with us.