Tips for finding last-minute spring break travel deals

Many people are searching for last-minute travel deals for spring break. With Easter weekend just a few weeks away, there are ways to save money on trips. Travel expert Katy Nastro warns that flight prices rise as the departure date nears. Once you're within 21 days of your trip, fares can jump by $100 or more. Nastro suggests being flexible with your destination. Sometimes the best deals can lead to places you haven’t considered. There are tools to help find good deals. For example, the Explore page on Google Flights shows flight options from nearby airports. Nastro also recommends considering train travel to cities like Boston, where flights may be cheaper. Travelers can save money by choosing specific days to fly. Flying out on Tuesday and returning on Saturday could save you around 20% compared to other days. Budget airlines often offer lower prices, but these tickets usually come with less flexibility, so be aware of extra fees. Booking two one-way flights instead of a round trip can also lead to savings. For example, flying to Los Angeles with one airline and returning with another might be cheaper overall. To catch the best deals, sign up for price alerts on platforms like Google Flights or Hopper. These services will inform you when ticket prices drop. Lastly, make sure to get your REAL ID before the federal deadline on May 7. After that, you will need it or a passport to travel.