cle-mco 12/14-12/23 direct..help

[magicbound]

I've been checking fares & changing dates trying to get the best fare. Found Continental for $268.50 (we need 7 tickets & this is $50 lower than any other fares I've seen so far). Also, by going down on Friday, the rental van drops by $100 for some reason.

Question: should I book the air now, since I'm pretty sure my return date is during a blackout period for most "cheaper" fares? (Wanted to use frequent flyer miles & couldn't due to return date) thanks for your help

 

[Beverly Lynn]

most of the sales have gone to dec 15th! it's possible it could go to the 20th. but if you want that NONSTOP flight then I suggest booking it now due to your return and then when it goes down get the refund voucher to use for your next trip. the return dates is what can and will sell out first.

 

[mom2jamie]

Just putting in your dates and used USair, delta, southwest and not one of them had a direct flight down from Cleveland. I used to travel to Boston from Rochester/Dover NH to fly before it became more convenient to fly out of Manchester NH, which was about 100 miles to Boston I think. How far is Columbus for you I am estimating about 140 miles. Southwest has direct flights out of Columbus for $207.50 pp. (Just checked their website) If you need 7 tickets that would be over $420 savings based on your estimate from Continental. I think it would be worth the drive to save $420. Just my opinion.

 

[magicbound]

Thanks for the idea Mom2jamie. Actually, Columbus is only about 2+ hours away, but we are leaving on Friday afternoon to accomodate a high school & work conflict. While DH drives fast, we would NEVER get there on time I'm afraid.Northern Ohio December weather is fickle Continental has the only direct flights out of Cleveland.(and they don't seem to come down in price much!) Since we're traveling so close to Xmas, DH insists direct is the only way to go with 7 people. I'm still hoping they drop tho.