average trip rate

Trip and Parking Generation

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Parking Generation, 6th Edition - October 2023

Discover What's New in the 6th Edition

Users will experience a number of improvements in the ITEParkGen web app, making it easier to access the information you need, and there are new land use codes and subcategories.

ITEParkGen web app improvements:

• Single click access to individual land use text and data plots pdfs
• Calculate parking demand for: average rate; fitted curve; and 85th percentile
• Complete pdf version of the Parking Generation Manual, 5th edition in the Support Documents folder

New/Reconfigured Land Use Codes:

• Single Family Attached Housing 
• Multifamily Housing
• Urgent Care Center
• Walk-in Clinic
• Shopping Center, Shopping Plaza, and Strip Retail Plaza
• Brewery Tap Room

New Land Use Subcategories for:

• Affordable Housing
• High Turn-Over (sit-down) Restaurant
• Medical-Dental Office Building
• Shopping Plaza
• Government Office Building
• Soccer Field

Please click here to access a complete list of Parking Generation Manual land use codes.

The information included in this resource is based on parking generation studies submitted voluntarily to ITE by public agencies, developers, consulting firms, student chapters and associations.  

Note about the Transition from Parking Generation , 5th Edition to the 6th Edition

* *When you purchase the 6th Edition and use your new code to update from the 5 th  Edition to the 6 th  Edition, the ITEParkGen web app will enable data analysis, filter, and calculate functions for only the 6 th Edition database. You will still be able to access PDFs for the entire 5 th  Edition contents through the Support Documents button within the ITEParkGen web app.

Purchasing Parking Generation, 6th Edition - Multiple Formats Available

Digital – A single ParkGen6 user license providing electronic access to all plots, descriptions and references and the ability to filter the data to match local conditions. 

• $295 members | $495 non-members:  Purchase a Single License

Hard Copy - A full-printed version of the 6th edition plots and descriptions.

• $295 members | $495 non-members (+ shipping and handling):  Purchase a Hard Copy

All-in-one-Bundle - A single ParkGen6 User License and 6th  Edition Hard Copy are available at a discounted price of $490 members | $790 non-members (+ shipping and handling):  Purchase the All-in-one-Bundle

Parking Generation, 6th Edition - Significant Discounts for Multi-Users Additional ParkGen6 user license - $195 members | $295 non-members For members purchasing 3 or more single user licenses, it’s most cost effective to purchase the Five-pack or the Office Bundle

• Two (2) ParkGen6 single user licenses - $490 members | $790 non-members:  Purchase two (2) single user license
• Five-pack (five (5) ParkGen6 user licenses) - $695 members | $1,295 non-members:  Purchase the Five-Pack
• Office Bundle (five (5) ParkGen6 user licenses and one (1) hard copy) - $895 members | $1,495 non-members (+ shipping and handling):  Purchase an Office Bundle

For every license purchased, you will receive a unique key code, to create one, single user account at www.iteparkgen.org . This is where you will go to access all ITEParkGen's web app data, plots, create plots of your own, and access reference documents. 

Questions or interested in purchasing more than 5 licenses at a time? Contact Frances Bettis at 202-785-0060 x149 or  [email protected] . 

Submit Data for ITE’s Parking Generation Manual

Do you have parking generation data that you would like to see included in ITE's Parking Generation Manual? To submit data, go here Submit Parking Data . If you have any questions about submitting data, email  [email protected] . 

Other Parking Generation Resources

In addition to the ITE Trip Generation Manual , we also provide access to several other related resources such as articles and FAQ's as follows:

• Parking Generation FAQs

Trip Generation Manual, 11th Edition (TripGen11)

The ITE Trip Generation Manual presents a summary of the trip generation data that have been voluntarily collected and submitted to ITE.  The trip generation database includes both vehicle and person trip generation for urban, suburban and rural settings. A Trip Generation web app—ITETripGen allows electronic access to the entire dataset with numerous filtering capabilities including site setting, geographic location, age of data, development size, and trip type. As additional data become available, they will be distributed through periodic updates to the Trip Generation Manual.

Submit Data for ITE's Trip Generation Manual

Do you have trip generation data that you would like to see included in ITE's Trip Generation Manual ? To submit data, go here https://www.itedatasubmission.org/index.html . If you have any questions about submitting data, email  [email protected] . Hard copy submittals are also accepted using ITE’s standard trip generation data collection form .

Purchase the Trip Generation Manual, 11th Edition

This new edition of the  Trip Generation Manual  enhances the 10th edition’s modernized content, data set, and contemporary delivery - making it an invaluable resource.

The 11th edition features:

• All the latest multimodal trip generation data for urban, suburban and rural applications,
• Reclassified land uses to better meet user needs,
• Integrated digital copies of all land use definitions, plots and supporting materials,
• Full ability to filter the data to match local conditions  (in digital versions only)

**When you purchase the 11th Edition and use your new code to update from the 10 th  Edition to the 11 th  Edition, the ITETripGen web app will enable data analysis, filter, and calculate functions for only the 11 th Edition database. You will still be able to access PDFs for the entire 10 th  Edition and entire 10 th  Edition Supplement contents through the Support Documents button within the ITE TripGen11 Web-based App.

For every license purchased, you will receive a unique key code, to create one, single user account at  www.itetripgen.org   This is where you will go to access all TripGen11’s data, plots, create plots of your own, and access reference documents.  Everything you need is on  www.itetripgen.org .

Available in Multiple Formats at the Same Price 

• $895 members | $1,395 non-members:  Purchase a Single License
• $895 members | $1,395 non-members (+ shipping and handling):  Purchase a Hard Copy

All-in-one-Bundle - A single TripGen11 User License and 11 th  Edition Hard Copy are available at a discounted price of $1,290 members | $1,890 non-members (+ shipping and handling):  Purchase the All-in-one-Bundle

Significant Discounts for Multi-Users Additional TripGen11 user license - $395 members | $495 non-members For members purchasing 3 or more single user licenses, it’s most cost effective to purchase the Five-pack or the Office Bundle

• Two (2) TripGen11 single user licenses - $1,290 members | $1,890 non-members:  Purchase two (2) single user license
• Five-pack (five (5) TripGen11 user licenses) - $1,675 members | $3,375 non-members:  Purchase the Five-Pack
• Office Bundle (five (5) TripGen11 user licenses and one (1) hard copy) - $1,995 members | $3,695 non-members (+ shipping and handling):  Purchase an Office Bundle

Questions or interest in purchasing more than 5 licenses? Email  [email protected] .

Looking for Assistance with Traffic Impact Analysis Studies?

The following members of the  ITE Consultants Council  are available to perform traffic impact analysis studies. The below organizations operate independently of ITE and ITE does not take responsibility for their performance. Individuals should contact the below organizations directly.

• American Structurepoint
• CBB Transportation Engineers + Planners
• Crawford, Murphy & Tilly
• DCS Engineering
• DKS Associates
• Fehr & Peers
• Gannett Fleming
• Kimley Horn
• Kittelson & Associates, Ltd.
• Lambeth Engineering
• Lee Engineering
• Paradigm Transportation Solutions Ltd.
• Sam Schwartz
• Sanderson Stewart
• The Traffic Group, Inc.
• Urban Systems

Interested in adding your organization to this list? Contact  Kathi Driggs  to learn more about joining the  ITE Consultants Council .

Next Evolution in Transportation Impact Analysis

Now Available! The TripGen11 API, developed by Transoft Solutions for ITE, allows for third-party transportation engineering software providers to link their products directly to the ITE TripGen 11 app and gives users to extract data needed for analysis. 

ITE has initially partnered with PTV Group to offer integration through their software platform, PTV Vistro. The ITE TripGen11 API allows users to import ITE Trip Generation data for proposed project land uses directly within the software and apply the results in integrated transportation impact analysis workflows.

Through PTV’s Vistro software, users can select the land use characteristics, independent variable and time period. Then, choose to apply the average rate or fitted curve equation and view the results in Vistro’s trip generation table and on the ITE formatted data plot graphics.

Information about purchase the Trip Generation Manual, 11th Edition to gain access to TripGen11 App is below. To learn more about PTV’s Vistro, click  here . If you are interested in partnering with ITE on API integration, contact  Kevin Hooper .

Other Trip Generation Resources

In addition to the ITE Trip Generation Manual , we also provide access to several other related resources such as articles, related research and white papers as follows:

• High-Cube Warehouse Vehicle Trip Generation Analysis Prepared for South Coast Air Quality Management District and National Association of Industrial and Office Properties Prepared by Institute of Transportation Engineers
• Urban and Person Trip Generation White Paper
• Related Research
• Trip Generation Manual 11 th Edition, ITE Pass-by Rates
• Trip Generation Manual 11 th  Edition  ITE Trip Generation Hourly Distribution of Entering and Exiting Vehicle Trips
• Trip Generation Manual 11 th  Edition  ITE Trip Generation Hourly Distribution of Entering and Exiting Truck Trips

Featured Resources

- Coming Soon -

This updated manual follows the lead of the modernized, updated, and expanded Trip Generation Manual, 10th Edition. The analyses in more..

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MONTHLY INSIGHTS December 20, 2023

The Travel Price Index (TPI) measures the cost of travel away from home in the United States. It is based on the U.S. Department of Labor price data collected for the monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI). The TPI is released monthly and is directly comparable to the CPI. 

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How Much Is Travel Insurance in 2024?

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Table of Contents

Average cost of travel insurance by trip cost

Factors that affect travel insurance cost, more example costs of travel insurance, types of travel insurance, how to buy travel insurance, credit cards with travel insurance, cost of travel insurance recapped.

According to NerdWallet analysis, the short answer to “How much does travel insurance cost?” is that it’s typically 7% of your overall trip cost. For example, travel insurance will cost you an additional $70 (roughly) for a $1,000 trip.

However, depending on your provider, travel insurance costs can range from 4%-16% of your trip cost. That means for that $1,000 trip, you might find coverage for as little as $40 or up $160 on the high end.

Costs vary across providers, level of coverage and factors like your age and destination. Let’s take a look at the different types of travel insurance, what influences its cost and the average cost of travel insurance.

The Nerds dove deep into over 50 real world coverage price points to get a clearer sense of typical travel insurance costs in 2024.

On average, travelers should expect to pay 6.87% of their total trip cost for travel insurance. The minimum you might expect to pay is 4.15%, but it can go as high as 15.8%.

How did we determine these ballpark travel insurance prices?

We broke it down by looking at four individual providers' cheapest basic plan and most expensive basic plan for two traveler age demographics: a 30 year old and a 60 year old.

The Texas-based travelers are taking a 10 day trip to Florida in the summer. Included providers in our analysis were:

Allianz Global Assistance .

Travel Guard by AIG .

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services .

Travel Insured International .

World Nomads .

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection .

Travelex Insurance Services .

Seven Corners .

AXA Assistance USA .

TravelSafe .

HTH Insurance .

According to the U.S. Travel Insurance Association, a national association of insurance carriers, the amount you can expect to pay for travel insurance will vary between 4% to 8% of your overall trip. This falls in the general range of our analysis, too.

If your vacation was $5,000, you’d be looking at somewhere between $200 and $400 for insurance. NerdWallet findings corroborate this range, with the average travel insurance cost for a trip at this price point being about $350.

Of course, as we describe below, the type of coverage you choose can greatly affect the cost of your insurance.

» Learn more: What does travel insurance cover?

So, how much is travel insurance? Several factors will influence the cost, like:

Type and extent of coverage.

The length of your trip.

Your destination.

The age of the policyholder.

Total trip cost.

Let’s say that you chose to purchase an insurance policy to cover any health care expenses you incur while traveling. This will reimburse you in the event you need to see a doctor, require hospitalization or have a variety of needs related to health care.

However, let’s say that you also chose to insure some of your trip costs; this means that, if need be, the policy will reimburse you for nonrefundable trip costs in case of a covered event. This will drive up the price of your policy overall.

Another factor that will affect the cost of your travel insurance is the coverage limits of your policy. These limits dictate how much you’ll be reimbursed in the event you need to use your insurance; the higher the amount, the more expensive your insurance.

» Learn more: The best travel insurance companies

Here are some sample costs of travel insurance for a seven-day trip in the United States for two travelers ages 34 and 36. Full trip costs are estimated to be $2,000, and trip bookings have yet to be paid in full.

Policies include trip interruption coverage, travel delay coverage (up to $500) and emergency medical coverage.

In addition to the cost of travel insurance, we also need to talk about the different types of travel insurance. This is because the price you’ll pay will depend on the insurance you choose. Some policies — like those that allow you to cancel for any reason — can be more expensive than other, more limited, policies.

Common types of travel insurance include:

Lost luggage insurance .

Trip interruption insurance .

Trip cancellation insurance .

Rental car insurance .

Cancel For Any Reason insurance .

Health insurance .

Accidental death insurance .

Emergency evacuation insurance .

Different types of insurance will cover various things. Trip cancellation insurance, for example, will allow you to recoup a portion of nonrefundable costs when you’re forced to cancel your trip for a covered reason.

It’s simple to purchase travel insurance; you’ve probably seen dozens of ads for insurance whenever booking a flight or rental car.

However, it’s a better idea to get multiple quotes for policies. Insurance policy aggregators, such as Squaremouth, allow you to search a variety of different providers at once. You can then compare the coverage and price of each policy before choosing one that suits your needs.

» Learn more: What to know before buying travel insurance

If you’re looking into purchasing travel insurance, you may want to check which credit card you’re using to book your trip. Many of today’s popular travel credit cards offer complimentary travel insurance.

Cards such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offer primary rental car insurance; this means that the card will pay for any covered damage so that it doesn’t pass on to your personal insurance policy.

The types of insurance and total coverage vary according to the card, so you’ll want to check your individual policies.

Common coverage includes trip delay insurance, lost luggage insurance, rental car insurance and emergency medical insurance.

Popular cards that provide these types of coverage include:

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card . (Benefits may change over time.)

The Platinum Card® from American Express . Terms apply.

United℠ Explorer Card .

In order to qualify for coverage, you’ll want to use your card to pay for any trip costs, including your airfare, lodging and rental cars.

The amount you’ll be reimbursed varies widely depending on which card you hold. For instance, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card provides coverage for up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses for covered trip cancellations.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

These include airfare, accommodations and even tours.

The United℠ Explorer Card , meanwhile, offers far less coverage at just $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

United℠ Explorer Card

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

Of course, your trip will need to fall under covered circumstances, including sickness and severe weather.

» Learn more: Does my Chase credit card have travel insurance?

It can make sense to purchase travel insurance, especially if you’re unsure about your vacation or worried about incurring expenses you can’t afford. Before buying a policy, you’ll first want to decide what type of insurance you’re looking to buy; some types of coverage cost much more than others.

You’ll also want to check to see if your credit card already provides complimentary travel insurance. Many popular travel cards offer this feature, though the limits may be lower than you might prefer.

Finally, do your homework before buying a policy. Gather quotes from multiple companies before making a decision, and remember the average price of trip insurance ranges from 4% to 8% of your total vacation costs.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

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How much does a ride with Uber cost?

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How prices are estimated

In most cities, your cost is calculated up front, before you confirm your ride. In others, you will see an estimated price range (see applicable price terms in your city). Here are some fees and factors that can affect your price:

The base rate is determined by the time and distance of a trip.

Operating fee

In your city, a flat fee might be added to each trip. It helps support operational, regulatory, and safety costs.

Busy times and areas

When there are more riders than available drivers, prices may temporarily increase until the marketplace is rebalanced.

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Drive using Uber when you want and make money on your schedule.

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Frequently asked questions

After you arrive at your destination and exit the vehicle, your final cost will be automatically calculated and charged to the payment method you’ve set.

Yes, you can request a ride to and from most major airports around the world. Go to our airports page to see the locations where Uber is available.

In most cities, Uber is designed to be a cashless experience. In cities where cash payments are available, this option must be selected before you request your ride.

Open the app and input your destination in the “Where to?” box. The price estimate for each ride option will appear; scroll to see what’s available in your area.

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How much does a cruise cost in 2024.

Use this guide to learn more about cruise pricing and how to figure out the total cost of a cruise.

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

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With the rising cost of everything, cruise fares – some even as low as $27 per person per night based on double occupancy – seem like an incredible bargain. And they certainly can be, but the fares you see advertised online often don't include extras like taxes, fees, port expenses, gratuities, shore excursions, specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, room service fees and more.

Cruise pricing can be confusing with so many variables. Unless you're sailing with a smaller luxury line that is all-inclusive , your bill on the day of disembarkation may be unexpected or even shocking. Small things like buying bottled water or renting noodles for floating in the ocean at a cruise line's private island can add up quickly. To help you plan better for a cruise vacation , U.S. News has broken down some of the costs and add-ons you need to take into consideration before booking your next getaway on the high seas.

Find your perfect cruise

How much does a one-week cruise cost?

A cruise can cost anywhere from about $109 per person in an interior cabin for a four-night Bahamas cruise up to $101,199 per person for an entry-level suite on a 168-night world cruise – and anywhere in between. Cruise fares vary based on itinerary, number of nights, cabin type, amenities and cruise line. Here are a few examples of base cruise cost ranges on larger cruise lines for various regions:

• A seven-night Caribbean cruise in November ranges from approximately $270 to $2,600 per person.
• A seven-night Alaska cruise in May ranges from approximately $250 to $1,700 per person.
• A seven-night Mediterranean cruise in June ranges from approximately $620 to $2,300 per person.
• A seven-night Mexico cruise on the Pacific Coast in January ranges from approximately $470 to $700 per person.
• A seven-night Canada and New England cruise in October ranges from approximately $490 to $1,100 per person.

What's included in the base fare with a larger cruise line?

Mass market cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line , MSC Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line – and more upscale lines like Celebrity Cruises , Holland America Line , Cunard Line , Disney Cruise Line and Princess Cruises – advertise "starting from" base fares, which are for inside cabins. These are the least expensive staterooms on the ship, and they do not have windows. Staying in these accommodations still gives you access to all the complimentary dining venues and several types of nonalcoholic beverages (such as nonbottled water, iced tea, juices, hot coffee and tea), as well as the ship's pools, gym facilities, kids clubs and onboard entertainment.

If you want a room with a view – or a larger stateroom – consider booking an ocean view room with a window, or a cabin with a balcony or veranda. With these rooms, you'll have access to all the ship's included amenities and typically more spacious accommodations for the week. Of course, this option will come at a higher price point.

No matter which room category you choose, port expenses, taxes and fees are not included in the base fares, and they're automatically added to the cost of your cruise. The amount of these charges will depend on the length of your cruise and where you're sailing. Gratuities for the staff and crew are also additional.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

What if you want more amenities and perks?

For more perks, you can splurge on a suite or a higher room category. With Celebrity's Concierge Class, for example, you'll be treated to amenities such as a welcome lunch, a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, personalized concierge service, an exclusive destination seminar, pillow selection upon request, laundry service and more.

With Disney Cruise Line's Concierge Staterooms and Suites, guests have a dedicated concierge agent offering personalized assistance for pre-arrival planning for port adventures, dining reservations, other onboard activities and special requests. You'll also get priority check-in and boarding, a private welcome reception, free Basic Surf Wi-Fi, access to a private lounge with complimentary food and beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic) served throughout the day, and other perks.

You may opt to stay within an exclusive area of the ship, such as the MSC Yacht Club, The Haven by Norwegian or Celebrity's The Retreat. These high-end private retreats offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with additional features, while still including access to all the entertainment, dining venues and more on board. The accommodations can cost hundreds more dollars per day, but you'll have an experience similar to sailing on a small luxury vessel.

For example, the MSC Yacht Club offers an intimate all-inclusive space within its larger ships. The private area is accessible with a key card and features luxurious suites, a dedicated concierge, 24-hour butler service, a private restaurant and lounge, a secluded pool deck, priority reservations for specialty dining, VIP seating for entertainment, and other amenities. There are also additional dining and snack options throughout the day at the pool and lounge.

You'll find similar amenities in Norwegian's and Celebrity's private retreats, including priority boarding and disembarkation, exclusive sun deck areas, and priority access when boarding tenders for going ashore.

Guests of MSC's Yacht Club receive the line's Premium Extra Beverage Package, which covers premium liquors, fine wines and Champagne in the Yacht Club and at most other venues on the ship. Accommodations in The Retreat on Celebrity also include premium beverages throughout the ship. If you're staying in The Haven by Norwegian, a beverage package is not covered in the pricing, but Norwegian frequently advertises its "Free at Sea" package, which includes free unlimited bar, free specialty dining, complimentary Wi-Fi, discounts on excursions and other perks.

What factors determine pricing?

Base pricing and the additional components vary greatly among the cruise lines, so you'll need to determine what your budget is for the trip – and what you can and can't live without when it comes to accommodations and amenities. Travelers may also find that one cruise line has a deal or promotion with reduced pricing that covers airfare, specialty dining, a beverage package, free Wi-Fi or other perks in the advertised rate (such as the Norwegian package mentioned above), while another line isn't running any specials for a similar itinerary.

Voyages on older cruise ships tend to be less expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, consider a ship with fewer bells and whistles. If you're sailing on a short itinerary in the Bahamas and plan to lounge by the pool or on the beach all day, you may not be concerned about having high-tech onboard amenities, martini bars and several specialty restaurants.

Save the money to splurge on more expensive fares when you're planning to sail on longer voyages on larger and newer ships . You'll want several days at sea to enjoy the onboard amenities on some vessels, such as a three-level racetrack and a 10-story-tall slide on Norwegian Viva . It would take a full week (or more) to explore all the entertainment options aboard Royal Caribbean International's newest ship, Icon of the Seas – or all the new entertainment offerings and attractions on Princess Cruises' latest addition to its fleet: Sun Princess.

Another significant factor to consider is the time of year you want to travel. Better deals are available in the offseason, but the offseason varies depending on what part of the world you're traveling to. For example, May is a great time to find a deal in the Caribbean. The offseason – or shoulder season – in that market typically runs from May to November. However, keep in mind this period overlaps with hurricane season .

You also may be able to find last-minute deals in many other destinations if you're flexible. Working with a travel agent is an excellent way to learn of last-minute specials and cruise deals that offer add-ons like beverage packages, specialty dining inclusions, shore excursions and other perks. You can also check out the online specials that change frequently.

Solo travelers may pay more

If you're traveling alone, you may also need to factor in a single supplement, which can add up to as much as 100% of the cruise fare. To save money, bring a friend so you can access the lower double occupancy fare or consider lines that feature rooms for solo travelers; select Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Celebrity ships offer solo staterooms, as do other cruise lines. Check out our guide to the best solo cruises with no supplement fare .

These smaller accommodations – typically ranging from around 100 to more than 200 square feet in size – are priced and designed for solo travelers. Key card access to Norwegian's Studio Lounge is included with the line's solo cabins and offers a place to relax and mix and mingle with other cruisers. Other lines that offer solo cabins include Holland America, MSC, Cunard and Virgin Voyages . While the price may not be as inexpensive as the double occupancy fare when traveling with someone else, these accommodations offer some savings over a typical solo fare.

Some lines often feature special deals on select sailings where the single supplement is waived or reduced. A knowledgeable travel agent specializing in cruises can assist in finding the best offers for solo travelers.

'Kids cruise free' promotions can help families save

If you're traveling with kids, many cruise lines – such as Holland America, MSC, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Disney and Princess – offer "kids sail free" promotions periodically throughout the year. You can also find discounted fares for children on select sailings.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has fares as low as $999 for children 17 and younger on a variety of select voyages. Regent's regular fares typically start at around $3,600 per person for a seven-night cruise, so this is a significant savings. This fare also includes unlimited complimentary shore excursions and all the benefits and perks of sailing with an all-inclusive luxury cruise line. Regent even has a current promotion where kids sail free on a selection of seven- to 20-night itineraries in Europe and the U.K.

Food and beverages are another expense to consider

Once you determine your total cruise fare with the taxes, fees, port charges and gratuities, you'll need to budget for the additional expenses you'll have on the ship – and these extras can add up quickly. Meals at specialty dining venues, alcoholic drinks and other beverages may not be covered in the basic cruise fare. You'll also have to pay for room service on many ships.

You can purchase specialty dining, beverage and Wi-Fi packages before or during your cruise. These packages offer savings over purchasing everything individually – and it's best to buy them once you book your cruise, as they're typically cheaper to purchase before you board the ship.

For an example of the savings with a food package, Royal Caribbean offers up to a 40% discount with a dining package. This package includes reduced pricing for children ages 6 to 12, while kids 5 and younger eat for free. The cruise line's unlimited dining package also offers discounts on bottles of wine.

In addition to specialty dining venues that charge a flat fee – usually between $30 and $50 – there are also restaurants that charge as much as $135 or more for dinner, such as the adult venues on Disney Cruise Line's ships. Other restaurants feature a la carte menus with sushi, bar food and even steakhouses that price out individual courses. Some of these venues may not include gratuities, so that's another add-on. If you decide to dine at any of these spots – and they're not included in your package – you'll have to budget for them in the total cruise price.

Enticing dessert items in the gelato and ice cream shops on some ships also come with a price, including Coco's and Dolce Gelato on Norwegian or MSC's Venchi Gelati and Chocolate.

There are endless options when considering beverage packages, too, so you need choose what fits best with your interests and budget. Some of the package options are only for nonalcoholic drinks like fountain sodas, sparkling waters and coffees, while premium or deluxe beverage packages cover beer, wine and cocktails, so they are more expensive.

Depending on the cruise line, most premium packages will usually cover drinks up to $15, but many craft cocktails on cruise ships can be quite expensive, costing much more, especially if you request a specific brand for the liquor. If you have the premium package and want to splurge on the fancy beverage, you'll have to pay the difference.

It's important to know that there are a few select venues and bars on some ships that do not accept a beverage package, so you'll have to pay extra for drinks at those places. For example, MSC's ships have several signature venues that do not accept drink packages, such as Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Lavazza coffee shops and Venchi 1878.

Norwegian offers a package that covers top-shelf beverages and select bottles of wine and Champagne, Starbucks coffee, bottled water, soda, specialty drinks and other beverages. You'll need to budget around $138 per person per day for this option – and an additional 20% gratuity. This type of package can add up to quite a bit of money on a seven-day cruise or longer. For more information, consult our guide on the drink package options for major cruise lines .

Bundle pricing

For additional savings, look into bundle pricing that includes specialty dining, Wi-Fi, photos and more. Purchasing them together may be more cost-effective. For example, Holland America offers the "Have It All" package, which encompasses a $100 shore excursion credit, the Signature Beverage Package (including the service charge), one evening of specialty dining and the Surf Wi-Fi package for a six- to nine-day cruise. If you're sailing for 10 to 20 days or even longer, the benefits increase. The line estimates savings of 50% when you purchase this bundle.

While these packages may not always work out in your favor, you'll at least know what your dining, imbibing, excursions, Wi-Fi and even additional activities on the cruise will cost.

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Additional costs on a cruise ship

Cruisers will also incur additional fees from excursions, fitness classes, spa treatments, access to thermal spa rooms, babysitting services, ship tours, wine tastings, cocktail demonstrations, cooking classes, laundry services, and some entertainment venues and activities on the ship. Examples include Norwegian's racetrack, Viva Speedway; high-tech attractions like the Robotron thrill ride and the XD cinema on MSC Seascape ; and Carnival's first roller coaster at sea, BOLT.

See some of the more popular added costs you'll want to consider below.

Wi-Fi access

If you need Wi-Fi during the cruise, that's another cost to factor into the total price. Here are two examples of pricing for internet plans for two cruise lines.

Carnival offers three options for Wi-Fi, using Starlink. The basic Social Wi-Fi Plan gives you access to certain social media channels like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, WhatsApp and more, starting at about $15 per person per day. The cost increases to roughly $20 per person per day with the Value Wi-Fi Plan. This option gives you access to your email and to sites for weather, news, finance and more. It does not support Skype or music and video streaming services like Spotify and Netflix during your cruise.

The last option, Carnival's Premium Wi-Fi Plan, starts at around $19 per person per day and offers speeds up to three times faster than the Value plan. With this plan you can make Zoom calls and use Skype. For all three of these plans, you can save 15% off the total price if you book in advance of your trip.

Celebrity also uses Starlink. The line's "All Included" fare includes basic internet and a classic drink package, which the line says can save you potentially hundreds of dollars. If you don't book that fare, Wi-Fi plans range from around $20 per day for basic service to premium Wi-Fi at $35 per day.

• Shore excursions

If you're traveling to far-flung or new destinations, you'll want to book shore excursions. Cruise lines recommend that you book excursions directly with them rather than hiring an independent tour company or operator, but it can be more expensive to book tours through the cruise line.

However, if you experienced a delay on an independent tour and couldn't get back to the ship on time, there's a chance you could get left behind if you're not on a ship-sponsored tour. If you decide to go with a private tour guide, be sure to book an excursion that will allow you to arrive back at the ship with plenty of time to spare before the vessel departs for the next destination. Most tour operators in busy cruise ports work with the cruise ship schedules all the time, so you should be fine with a reputable independent guide.

Some trips last an entire day or are once-in-a-lifetime adventures like dog-sledding on a glacier in Alaska or taking a helicopter ride over the active volcanoes and waterfalls in Iceland. These types of excursions can be costly, ranging anywhere from hundreds to even thousands of dollars. If these types of experiences are not in your budget, look for historic walking or panoramic driving tours. These activities are shorter in duration and typically the least expensive tours available on the cruise. Many of these types of tours will cost less than $100. And, of course, there are always other options available that range between the lower and higher price range of excursions.

If your ship is docked directly in the town or city, then you'll be able to explore off the ship on your own for free. Some cruise lines also offer complimentary shuttle buses into town or a round-trip ride for a nominal fee if it's not within walking distance of the ship. That's another less expensive option for you to sightsee, shop or grab lunch in town.

Transportation

Transportation is another expense that's often overlooked in the total cost of a cruise. Consider if you'll be driving or flying to the cruise port. If you're driving, you'll have to pay for gas and parking at the port – and maybe a hotel the night before the cruise, depending on when you arrive and when your ship is scheduled to set sail. Don't forget the meals or beverages you'll purchase on the way.

If you're flying to the port, especially on a long-distance flight, it's best to come in a day early. In that case, you'll also have to pay for a hotel, transfers from the airport to the hotel and then a transfer (private hire, Uber or cab) to the ship's terminal. There will also be meals to budget for while you're in town before the cruise and a ride back to the airport after the cruise.

Souvenirs or forgotten items

Don't forget to account for purchases on the ship. Items that you forgot to bring from home will be more expensive on board. It's also easy to run up the bill when buying souvenirs for yourself or the kids. It's a good idea to periodically check your bill online or with guest services to see the current balance. You can keep a running tab of what you've billed to your stateroom – and also make sure that the charges are correct.

Cruise pricing checklist

To sum it up, here's a checklist of major items that will help you to compare costs across cruise lines and tally up the total cost of a cruise:

• Base cruise price
• Taxes, fees, gratuities and port expenses
• Specialty dining
• Food and beverage packages
• Optional activities (such as spa treatments or extra-fee entertainment on the ship)
• Miscellaneous expenses (such as meals and beverages ashore)
• Air or ground travel to the port
• Hotel prior to embarking

If you don't want to budget for all the individual expenses related to a cruise – and you don't need the over-the-top entertainment of a larger cruise ship – consider booking a mostly all-inclusive or fully all-inclusive cruise with a luxury cruise line . These cruise lines include almost everything in your cruise fare.

Mostly all-inclusive cruises

One option for a mostly all-inclusive cruise is Viking Ocean Cruises . The line's 12 all-veranda ocean-going vessels accommodate between 930 to 998 guests based on double occupancy – and all of Viking's ships feature the same categories of staterooms and suites, dining, lounges, and entertainment venues across the fleet. The ships offer an immersive cultural curriculum on board with regional dishes, destination performances and enrichment lectures.

Viking's fares include veranda accommodations, port taxes and fees, free Wi-Fi, access to the spa and fitness center, 24-hour room service, ground transportation (if you book airfare with Viking), and one complimentary excursion in each port. You'll also have alternative dining options at no extra charge, plus free beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board the ship. Specialty coffees, teas and bottled water are available 24 hours a day at no extra charge.

If you like to have an aperitif before your evening meal or an after-dinner cocktail, those beverages will be at an additional cost. You'll also need to budget for any optional shore excursions that are not included in the fare.

Keep in mind that Viking is an adults-only cruise line , so children younger than 18 are not permitted.

All-inclusive cruises

Regent Seven Seas, Silversea Cruises and Seabourn Cruise Line boast all-inclusive luxury experiences with shipwide amenities such as ocean-facing suites, butlers, premium spirits, fully stocked in-suite bars, no tipping and complimentary dining at world-class restaurants.

Additional perks with Regent Seven Seas include complimentary unlimited shore excursions, free two- or three-night land programs, a free one-night hotel stay before the cruise departure, transfers from the airport to the ship, and business class or economy airfare (depending on the destination).

Silversea offers door-to-door arrangements where everything is handled by the cruise line. You can also opt for a port-to-port all-inclusive rate if you prefer to make your own travel arrangements. If you're on one of the cruise line's expedition cruises, fares will include a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay. All door-to-door and port-to-port Silversea fares cover a selection of complimentary shore excursions in each port.

If you're interested in an even smaller ship – and are sailing to the Caribbean or Mediterranean – SeaDream Yacht Club features an intimate luxury experience on its two 56-stateroom yachts. The fares include top-notch cuisine, an open bar, gratuities, complimentary daily yoga, access to water sports and movies under the stars.

How much does a luxury cruise cost for two?

If you want to go on a mostly adults-only luxury ship, what can you expect to pay for two people? This will depend on the ship, where you want to sail and for how long – and what amenities are included in the fare.

For a seven-night cruise in the Caribbean in December 2024 round-trip from Miami with Regent Seven Seas, an all-inclusive cruise fare with suite accommodations starts at $7,398 ($3,699 per person). There are additional perks and savings available, depending on the level of accommodations you book and if you combine this cruise with another voyage. You can also check with a travel agent specializing in cruises to see if they have access to other promotions.

For a Silversea cruise in December 2025 that sails round-trip from Bridgetown, Barbados, the all-inclusive port-to-port cruise fare starts at $9,800 for two people ($4,900 per person) in suite accommodations. Contact a travel agent before booking to see if they can offer upgrades or additional amenities.

While the price tag may seem high, compare the total cost with the base fare on a larger cruise ship and then add in all the extras.

See the top cruises on  GoToSea .

The bottom line

The average cost of a cruise is all over the map – and there are many variables to consider. Hiring a cruise specialist to navigate the rough waters may be your best option. Cruise specialists are also privy to special deals and incentives that you may not be able to access on your own. Travel agents can also advise you of promotions that may include free specialty dining, beverage packages, complimentary Wi-Fi, shore excursions, discounts on solo and family travel, and more. This approach will save you the hassle of searching online or calling the individual cruise companies to check on what specials are available.

If you'd rather have one price with everything included so there's little room for surprises at the end of the trip, consider a mostly or fully all-inclusive cruise fare. If you don't need waterslides for the kids, big Broadway shows and high-tech entertainment, a cruise on a small luxury line may suit you well.

When doing the math and comparing the costs, you might be surprised how similar in price cruising with a larger mass market cruise line and a smaller luxury line can be. In the end, your decision will come down to your personal preferences and what you value most for your cruise vacation.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels and traditional masted sailing ships. Cruising is one of her favorite ways to travel and she hopes to book an extended cruise to see the rest of the world someday soon. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Cruise
• How Much Does an Alaska Cruise Cost?
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival: Which Is Right for You?
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• Is Travel Insurance Worth It?

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• Forecasting

8  comments

Trip Generation Review: Multifamily Housing Land Use

By   Mike Spack

May 1, 2018

By Max Moreland, PE

In the current 10 th edition of ITE’s Trip Generation Manual, the categorization for a number of land uses has changed from previous editions. One of those changes is for multi-family housing. I thought I would take a closer look at the new ITE multi-family housing land uses to see how it compares to local data we have collected.

In previous versions of ITE’s Trip Generation manual, apartments and condominiums/townhomes were separate from one another and the classification is further broken into various classifications such as height, rental versus owner and luxury versus standard. In the 10 th edition, apartments and condominiums/townhomes have been combined under the same umbrella of multifamily housing.

Multifamily housing in the ITE Trip Generation Manual is now broken up into:

• #220 – Multifamily Housing (Low-Rise) – containing one or two floors
• #221 – Multifamily Housing (Mid-Rise) – containing three to ten floors
• #222 – Multifamily Housing (High-Rise) – containing more than ten floors

At TripGeneration.org, we also collected data at multifamily housing locations for the last few years. Our data has been categorized as either Townhomes or Apartments. All the townhomes we collected data at have either one or two floors and all the apartments we have collected data at have between three and ten floors.

Comparing the data we collected locally in the Minneapolis, Minnesota region for TripGeneration.org against the ITE data, our Townhome data fits neatly in the Multifamily Housing (Low-Rise) category and our Apartment data fits neatly in the Multifamily Housing (Mid-Rise) category.

The following charts compare our local Townhome and Apartment data against the three new ITE Multifamily categories.

As shown in the charts, our local rates for Townhomes are in line with Multifamily Housing (Low-Rise) in the a.m. and p.m. peak hours, but the local rates are lower for the daily trips. For Apartments, our local data is in line with Multifamily Housing (Mid-Rise) in the p.m. peak hour, but the local rates are lower for the a.m. peak hour and daily trips.

[Download Free Trip Generation Data – TripGeneration.org]

While the locally collected data does not line up 100% with the ITE data, the trend is still the same between the two: as the buildings get taller, the trips per unit get smaller. The reasons behind this are multiple and varied and would take another blog post to get into, so rather than get into that, I will repeat myself because it is fun to rhyme:

As the buildings get taller, the trips per unit get smaller.

Of course, there are many factors that impact trip generation data for each of the new land uses, which is why we encourage everyone to collect trip generation for there region when preparing traffic studies.

What’s your experience? How does your regional data compare to the numbers in ITE’s Trip Generation Manual? Add your thoughts in the comments below.

Free Trip Generation Data at TripGeneration.org

At  Spack Consulting , we collect local data on many, if not most, of our traffic studies. And we make this professionally collected data for free. Our document includes over 13,500 hours of data and allows you to see the full 24-hour data collected. Go to  TripGeneration.org  to download the raw data we’ve collected. Check out our free parking generation data as well!

I would be interested in your opinion regarding the new ITE category of high-rise residential with ground floor commercial. As an initial observation, it appears that in this new category, the inclusion of commercial does not result in a higher number of trips (or at least not significantly higher) compared to a similar high-rise without commercial.

I am also interested in the inclusion of this in the ITE manual as it is something that is becoming more and more common here in Minnesota. Comparing the data, you are correct that at the high-rise buildings the addition of ground floor commercial does not appear to have much impact on vehicle trips. However, there does seem to be more of an increase on vehicle trips for the mid-rise buildings. For both mid-rise and high-rise buildings, the addition of ground floor commercial causes an increase in person trips.

Definitely something that could use more looking into.

In the locations where you collected local counts, what do you expect the percentage of non-vehicle modes accessing those sites? Are they in areas that are well connected to transit, bike routes, etc.?

We have a large range of areas in the dataset, so there is a range of non-vehicle trips being made at the sites.

Gents- Do you have any data on trip generation for short term vacation rentals STVR)? Interested in seeing how single family or multi-family low-rise would compare to STVR and what the best way to compare would be by bedroom or unit?

Sorry – we don’t have data on short term rentals such as AirBNB. My hunch is that it can vary wildly based on context (heavy rental car area or no rental car area). Mike

Are your trips one way or round trip? Please include units in your work.

A trip by definition one way. Round trip equals two trips.

My mission is to help traffic engineers, transportation planners, and other transportation professionals improve our world.

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Travel could be a good deal this summer. Here's when plane ticket prices will peak.

Spring is springing, and according to Hopper, it’s time to start thinking about your summer vacation plans.

New data from the online booking site shows some favorable trends for travelers in the next few months, including slightly lower airfares compared with 2023 and hotel and car rental prices that are more or less flat year-over-year.

Here’s what you need to know as you prepare to book, whether you’re looking for a domestic getaway or go on an overseas adventure. It’s also not too late to take advantage of deals on some last-minute trips.

How much are spring and summer plane tickets?

According to Hopper, the best deals right now are on domestic airline tickets. Round-trip flights within the U.S. are averaging $290 in April, but prices are expected to rise in the months ahead.

Hopper’s data shows prices for domestic flights will peak between May and June at $315 on average, then will gradually fall through the summer, reaching a low of $264 on average in September.

On a call with investors discussing first-quarter earnings Wednesday, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian said summer travel demand has been pushed forward in recent years in part because schools, especially in the South, are finishing their summer breaks earlier in the year.

Is airport Wi-Fi safe to use? How to keep your information safe while traveling.

Short vs. long cruises: Which one is right for you? Here's how they compare.

This summer also will be a good time to travel internationally; Hopper data shows fares to most destinations abroad are down compared with last year. 

“Airfare to international destinations continues to improve following two years of bloated prices due to quickly recovering demand, high fuel prices and supply constraints. Airfare to most major regions of the world has dropped compared to last year with the exception of trips to Canada,” Hayley Berg, Hopper’s chief economist, said in the report. “International fares remain higher than pre-pandemic levels to most regions, as higher fuel prices persist and airlines continue to rebuild capacity to many regions.”

How much will a hotel room for the spring and summer cost?

Hotel prices remain mostly flat compared with the same time last year. Rooms in the U.S. are averaging $206 a night; better deals are available in some trending international destinations like Osaka, Japan, and Istanbul, Turkey.

According to Hopper, Las Vegas, New York and Chicago remain popular destinations in the U.S.

Will car rental prices rise this summer?

Car rental prices also haven’t increased much since last year and average $42 a day, according to Hopper.

The report shows most travelers rent a car for about four days, and warm-weather destinations like Orlando and Los Angeles remain popular pickup points.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

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2023 Annual Average Domestic Air Fares Decreases from 2022

BTS  18-24

Fourth Quarter 2023 Fares Increase 4.6%, Adjusted for Inflation, from Previous Quarter

The 2023 annual average domestic itinerary air fare of $382 decreased 3.1% from the 2022 inflation-adjusted annual fare of $394.  

Annual Air Fares

Inflation-adjusted Annual 2023 fare: $382 All years: Down 36.4% from the highest fare for any year, $600 in 2000 Start of BTS records in 1995: Down 34.7% from 1995 ($584) Recent high: Down 10.1% from 2018 ($424)

Unadjusted  Annual 2023 fare: $382 From previous year: Up 0.9% from 2022 ($378) All years: Down 3.8% from the highest fare for any year, $396 in 2014 Start of BTS records in 1995: Up 30.6% ($292) (compared to 99.9% consumer price index increase) Recent low: Up 30.54% from 2020 ($292)  

Fare calculations by BTS Itinerary Fares: Round-trips but include one-ways if no return is purchased. Breakout of trip types: one-way, 39% ($274); round-trip: 61%, ($466).

Based on a random sample of 10% of tickets.  Total ticket value: The price charged by airlines at time of ticket purchase. Included: All fees and charges levied by an air carrier required for the passenger to board the aircraft.   Also, additional taxes and fees levied by an outside entity at time of ticket purchase.  Not included: Fees for optional services, such as baggage fees.   

Fourth Quarter 2022 Air Fares

The average U.S. domestic air fare in the fourth quarter of 2023 was $385, increasing 4.6% from an inflation-adjusted third quarter 2023 fare of $368.    Adjusted for inflation (constant 2023 dollars) the average 4Q 2023 air fare was:

• Up 6.4% from 4Q 2021 ($361)
• Up 4.6% from 3Q 2023 ($368) 
• Down 9.6% from 4Q 2019 ($426)  

Itinerary Fares: Round-trips, but includes one-way tickets if no return is purchased. Breakout of trip types: one-way, 39% ($274); round-trip, 61% ($468).

Inflation-Adjusted Average Air Fares    Fourth Quarter 2023 fare: $385 Compared to all fourth quarters: Down 35.9% from the highest 4Q fare, $600 in 2000.  Compared to all quarters: Down 37.8% from the highest fare for any quarter, $619 in 1Q 1999. Start of BTS records in 1Q 1995: Down 36.3% ($604). Recent high: Down 1.1% from 2Q 2019 ($428) Recent low:  Up 33.0% from 3Q 2020 ($289). All-time low: Up 33.0% from the previous low 3Q 2020 ($289). All-time fourth-quarter low: Up 25.1% from the previous low 4Q 2020 ($307).

Unadjusted Average Air Fares    Fourth Quarter 2023 fare: $385 Trend: Up 4.6% from 3Q 2023 ($368) Compared to all fourth quarters: Down 2.7% from the highest 4Q fare, $395 in 2014 Compared to all quarters: Down 4.3% from the highest fare for any quarter, $402 in 2Q 2014 Start of BTS records in 1Q 1995: Up 29.6% ($297) (compared to 100.0% consumer price index increase) Recent low: Up 57.2% from 3Q 2020 ($245) Recent high: Down 3.1% from 2Q 2022 ($397) All-time low: Up 57.2% from 3Q 2020 ($245) All-time fourth-quarter low: Up 47.6% from 4Q 2020 ($261).  

Fares by Airport Group

Fares by airport group:

Highest: 11 airports with 2.0+ million originating passengers ($392). Lowest: 4 airports with 1.5-1.99 million originating passengers ($369).

Additional data: see Top 100 Airports or All Airports . First Quarter 2024 average fare data will be released July 16.    

What is the average interest rate for savings accounts?

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The average savings account in the US has an interest rate of 0.46% APY. But the type of savings account you have has a big impact on your interest rate. Switching your savings from a traditional savings account to a high-yield savings account could help your money grow much quicker.

How we calculate the average national savings interest rate

We use data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, or FDIC . The FDIC is a government agency that insures money deposited at banks. This way, if your bank unexpectedly shuts down, you won't lose your money.

The FDIC tracks average interest rates paid on savings accounts nationwide and updates its data monthly. The FDIC considers rates paid by credit unions in its data, not just banks.

Savings account interest rates at national banks

Many banks offer savings accounts, but these traditional savings accounts earn fairly low interest rates.

Here are some of the savings account interest rates offered on all balance tiers for the most basic accounts at major banks:

With these low interest rates, it's hard to make money grow, whether it's 0.01% APY (Annual Percentage Yield) or 0.05% APY. But, you don't have to settle for such low interest rates. 

Interest rates for linked checking and savings accounts

Some banks will pay you a higher rate on your savings account if you link it to a certain checking account. Here are some examples:

Keep in mind, sometimes there are additional criteria to earn the relationship savings rate. For example, with Chase, you also have to make five transactions per month from the linked checking account. Most relationship rates still aren't competitive with what you'll earn through an online high-yield savings account. But they could be useful if you know you prefer in-person banking.

Savings account interest rates at online banks

A high-yield savings account could help you grow your money quicker and make your money work harder, without any cost or inconvenience to you. The following are all high-yield savings accounts:

High-yield savings accounts earn multiple times more than a traditional savings account. We're not talking investment returns, here — more like 3.40% APY to 4.25% APY. That's along the lines of the rates you'd see with some CDs , but with the flexibility to access your money when you need it. And, it's still significantly higher than the 0.46% APY average.

Online banks don't have the overhead that brick-and-mortar banks do, allowing them to pass on more money in interest. Based on the account interest rates above, it's easy to tell just how wide the gap is between the interest offered by a traditional savings account and an online, high-yield savings account.

Savings account interest rates at credit unions

Many credit unions pay high interest rates on accounts. In some cases, they pay competitive rates on checking accounts, money market accounts, or CDs, but not on savings accounts. You usually have to open a basic savings account to become a member of a credit union, and those don't always pay impressive rates.

Some credit unions like Alliant and PenFed pay high rates on savings accounts. If you want to use a credit union rather than a bank, you could either choose one with a high-yield savings account or look at other high-yield accounts from the institution.

Savings account interest rates by balance

The balance you keep in your savings account could sway your interest rate. But at many banks, it won't make much difference. The bank you choose makes more of an impact than the amount you keep.

Savings account interest rates can change

It's worth noting that interest rates change often for both traditional and high-yield savings accounts. Banks move interest rates in step with the federal funds rate — the amount the Federal Reserve charges banks to borrow money. When the federal funds rate goes down, interest rates do as well, and vice versa.

Savings interest rates have slowly been going up in 2023. Even if they were to drop, however, it's best practice to keep saving. That way, when rates inevitably do go back up, you'll be earning interest on a larger amount of principal.

Finding the right savings account for you

Ultimately, you also may decide to open more than one type of savings account if you have multiple savings goals and find it easier to manage your money that way. 

When making your decision on which savings accounts to open, make sure to take the time to review current interest rates to see if they're higher than the average savings account. You'll also want to consider savings account features and the overall banking experience.

Average interest rates on savings accounts: FAQs

The national average interest rate on savings accounts is 0.46% APY, according to the FDIC . Many large brick-and-mortar banks pay even lower rates, while plenty of online banks pay much more.

Right now, 4.40% APY or higher is a good rate on a savings account. The best high-yield savings accounts pay up to 6.17% APY right now, and many banks have 5% savings accounts .

It depends on what the interest rate is and how often the account compounds interest. The more often interest is compounded, the better. With a savings account paying the national average of 0.46% APY and compounding daily, you'd earn $45 on $10,000 in a year. With an account paying 5% APY and compounding daily, you'd earn over $500.

• Are banks open today? Here's a list of US bank holidays for 2023
• Best CD rates
• Best High-yield savings accounts
• Four reasons why your debit card might be denied even when you have money

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Best term life insurance companies

How to find the best term life insurance company for you, frequently asked questions.

Not everyone needs life insurance that covers you for your entire life. For anyone looking for more temporary coverage — like those with young children or a mortgage to pay off — there is term life insurance. Term life insurance provides coverage for a pre-set period of time, which is usually between 10 and 30 years. In exchange for your regularly paid premium, your beneficiaries receive a payout if you die while the policy is active. However, the payout tends to be lower compared to other types of life insurance policies. Bankrate’s guide to the best term life insurance can help you find an insurer that meets your policy needs and budget.

Compare life insurance providers quickly and easily

See which provider is right for you.

Whole life insurance combines life insurance with an investment component.

• Coverage for life
• Tax-deferred savings benefit if premiums are paid
• 3 variations of permanent insurance: whole life, universal life and variable life include investment component

Term life insurance is precisely what the name implies: an insurance policy that is good for a specific term of time.

• Fixed premium over term
• No savings benefits
• Outliving policy or policy cancellation results in no money back

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The best term life insurance companies depend on an individual’s needs and preferences. While your quoted premium will typically not vary as much as for life quotes as home or auto insurance, different companies do offer different coverage types and levels. We chose the following companies based on their third-party financial strength and J.D. Power customer satisfaction scores , as well as the policy options and available coverage capacities (the maximum dollar amount a policy can be). It may be helpful to start your research with the following providers:

Why we chose it: State Farm has the highest J.D. Power score for customer satisfaction on our list.

State Farm is our 2024 Bankrate Awards winner for Best Term Life Insurer for the third year in a row thanks to its superior AM Best score and near-nationwide availability. State Farm offers several term insurance products, but its return-of-premium policy option may be particularly helpful for certain term life insurance policyholders. This add-on coverage (also known as a life insurance rider ) lets policyholders choose between a 20- or 30-year payment term and receive a portion of their premiums back if they outlive the term. The return-of-premium policy can be renewed annually until age 95. While the return-of-premium option comes at an additional cost, it also builds cash value , which is rare in a term life insurance policy.

Why we chose it: Mutual of Omaha offers easy online quoting for its term life insurance policies and a wide array of riders for potential policy customization.

If you want to get an idea of how much term life insurance might cost, Mutual of Omaha offers a term life insurance quote tool online. Enter your gender, date of birth, tobacco usage and coverage amount to get a rate. Mutual of Omaha offers a plethora of additional riders that can be added to its term life policies. It should be noted that not every rider can be used with every type of policy. To verify how much coverage you need and which riders can be added to your policy, you may want to consult with an agent. This company also offers a locator service to help you find a financial advisor near you.

Why we chose it: Pacific Life has term life insurance policy options with high coverage levels.

Anyone wanting to tailor their term life insurance with riders or purchase higher coverage limits might consider Pacific Life for term life insurance. The carrier offers two policy options, Promise Term and Elite Term, both of which are convertible to cash value life insurance. Its Promise Term policy offers a minimum amount of $50,000 in coverage, while the Elite Term starts at $750,000 and goes to $3 million or more. Available options include a waiver of premium for disability, as well as a terminal illness and child term rider.

Why we chose it: Northwestern Mutual offers a wide array of informational resources and policy management tools online.

Northwestern Mutual is the largest life insurer in the U.S. by direct premiums written, with just over 7 percent of the total market share. The company has been insuring consumers for more than 150 years. Its term policies allow you to select your coverage period based on either a set amount of years or until a specific age, depending on which option is most suitable for you. Northwestern Mutual plans are also convertible to whole life insurance , meaning you may be able to adjust your policy as your needs evolve. The company’s A++ (Superior) financial strength rating from AM Best is the highest level available. However, the company only offers one term life insurance rider, so if you want greater policy customization, it may not be the carrier for you.

Why we chose it: Guardian life insurance offers four different term lengths and a long list of potential riders.

Guardian's term life insurance policies are available in four term lengths. The carrier also has a long list of riders for potential policy customization, including a guaranteed renewability clause in the event that you are diagnosed with a serious illness. However, be aware that the company does not offer a network of local agents, so if you prefer to handle your insurance needs face-to-face, you may not be satisfied with the level of service.

There are several factors to consider when shopping for a quality term life insurance policy. Since your life insurance will ultimately be responsible for providing the coverage you want for your family, these considerations may be beneficial to keep in mind when determining which provider is right for you. In addition to policy types, you could consider the following.

Consider customer satisfaction scores and financial strength ratings

Customer satisfaction scores may provide insight for consumers looking to purchase insurance products. These scores reflect how satisfied existing customers may be with the customer service and claims process. You might use these scores to get an idea of how your customer experience could be and which carrier might best fit your expectations.

A life insurance company’s financial strength score reflects its past ability to pay out claims and could help you decide if a company is financially sound. Third-party agencies such as AM Best and S&P publish financial strength ratings for each major provider.

Consider your personal situation

Term life insurance remains active for only a set number of years. To decide whether term life insurance is right for you, it may be helpful to consider what you want coverage for. Do you simply want coverage while your children are young, or would you prefer lifelong coverage?

While term life insurance may be sufficient for temporary needs, like ensuring you could pay off debt and finance college for your kids if you were to pass away, it may not be the right choice if you want coverage for longer. If you need coverage for final expenses or to take care of a lifelong dependent, permanent life insurance may be a better choice. There are several options to choose from, including:

• Whole life insurance : Whole life offers level premiums and a guaranteed death benefit for life. It also builds cash value over time, which you may be able to access through withdrawals or loans. 
• Universal life insurance : Similar to whole life, universal life offers permanent coverage with more flexibility. You can increase or decrease premium payments or the death benefit if life circumstances change. 
• Final expense life insurance : If you only need a small amount of coverage or have serious health issues, final expense life insurance may be your best option. It works like whole life, but doesn’t require a medical exam. Some policies are guaranteed issue, meaning there is no medical exam or health questions on the application. 

Compare multiple quotes

Getting quotes for different types and levels of coverage may help you get an idea of how much you’ll pay for your life insurance. However, keep in mind that term life insurance quotes for the same person and policy type likely won’t vary as much from company to company as auto insurance or home insurance quotes do.

How does term life insurance work?

Term life insurance is a type of life insurance that offers coverage for a set period of time, or term. Term life is usually the most affordable type of life insurance because it only lasts for a specific number of years, usually 10 to 30 years. Unless you buy return-of-premium life insurance, you receive nothing back if you outlive the term. However, many term life insurance policies offer the option to convert to a permanent life insurance policy at the end of the term. Many carriers also provide the option to renew a term life policy annually if you still need coverage past the expiration date.

What is the difference between term and whole life insurance?

Term insurance is designed to provide a death benefit if the insured passes away within the policy term. As the name suggests, term life insurance remains active for a predetermined “term,” which is the window of time that the policyholder chooses — typically between 10 and 30 years. When the term expires, the policyholder stops paying the premiums and the death benefit will no longer be paid out. Whole life insurance , on the other hand, is a type of permanent policy that pays out when the insured dies as long as premiums are paid. It typically contains two parts: a death benefit and a cash value component. Because whole life insurance policies usually have larger payouts, premiums can be two to three times more expensive than a term policy.

What factors impact my life insurance premium?

Life insurance premiums are largely based on mortality risk. In general, the higher the likelihood someone has of passing away while the policy is active, the higher the premium will be. Each insurer has its own underwriting algorithm for calculating your rate. Although each underwriting process is different, your age, gender, weight, health conditions, smoking history and occupation are typically used to help calculate your premium. The amount of coverage that you want to purchase is another key factor in determining the cost of life insurance . For those looking for cheap life insurance , it may be wiser to start shopping at a younger age.

Does having a preexisting condition impact my ability to purchase term life insurance?

Yes, having a preexisting condition may impact your ability to purchase term life insurance. Different conditions may be considered more or less serious by different insurers. If a life insurance provider does approve you for a term life policy with a preexisting condition, your premium may be high to reflect the health risks. Insurance providers may be more likely to approve you if you have conditions that can be managed. For instance, if you have Type 2 diabetes and maintain a healthy lifestyle, you may be more likely to be approved for term life insurance. If you have a preexisting condition, speaking with a licensed insurance agent may help you navigate your life insurance options.

Is term life insurance cheaper than whole life insurance?

The cost of life insurance will vary based on your policy details and personal rating factors, but term life insurance coverage is typically cheaper than whole life insurance, a type of permanent coverage. This is because whole life insurance is designed to offer coverage for your entire life and guarantee a payout to your beneficiaries, as long as premiums are paid and terms of the policy are met. Term coverage, on the other hand, may not pay out a death benefit if you outlive the policy term and do not renew your coverage. That being said, the cost of life insurance coverage varies based on coverage amount and individual risk rating factors, so a term policy with a high coverage amount for an older individual may cost more than a permanent policy for a younger applicant with a low coverage amount.

Money latest: TSB announces big increases to mortgage rates - as 'market thrown into turmoil'

TSB has followed other major lenders in hiking mortgage rates. First-time buyer, mover and remortgage rates are going up by as much as 0.45%. Read this plus all the latest consumer and personal finance news below - and leave your thoughts in the box.

Wednesday 24 April 2024 20:19, UK

• TSB announces big increases to mortgage rates as 'market thrown into turmoil'
• 'No fault' evictions ban could be delayed - as we reveal 100 MPs, including 83 Tories, have 'vested interest'
• EuroMillions players urged to check tickets as £1m prize remains unclaimed
• More Britons paying inheritance tax after chancellor freezes threshold - so how can you beat it?

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Ask a question or make a comment

MPs have voted in favour of the government's Renters' Reform Bill - despite it including an indefinite delay to the end of no-fault evictions.

A debate on the legislation ran throughout Wednesday afternoon, including around a new clause from the government which would hold off outlawing Section 21s until a review of the courts system had taken place.

But despite outrage from charities, campaigners and opposition parties around the measure, it got the backing of the majority of MPs - and the bill passed its final stage in the Commons shortly after 6.30pm.

A Section 21 notice is the legal mechanism allowing landlords to evict tenants without providing a reason, which creates uncertainty for those who rent their homes.

The government first promised to ban the notices five years ago, back when Theresa May was still in Number 10.

But it has faced numerous delays amid threats of rebellion from Tory backbenchers - some of them landlords - who said they feared ending Section 21s would see the courts overwhelmed with more complex eviction cases.

Ministers agreed to amend the bill to ensure no ban was enacted until a probe into the courts had been held.

But the clause offers no timeline - leaving no clear date for when Section 21s will actually be scrapped.

Read more here... 

By Daniel Binns , business reporter

Ryanair is suing air traffic control body Nats over last summer's flight chaos when more than 700,000 passengers were hit by cancellations and delays.

The low-cost carrier's chief executive Michael O'Leary said his company had been forced to pay out around £15m in compensation following the  widespread disruption  around the August Bank Holiday Monday.

An investigation into the meltdown found it was caused by a  National Air Traffic Services (Nats) technical glitch .

Around 300,000 people suffered cancellations, while approximately 95,000 endured delays of over three hours, and at least a further 300,000 were hit by shorter delays.

Airlines lost a total of £100m in refunds, rebookings, hotel rooms and refreshments.

Mr O'Leary told Sky's  Business Live with Ian King : "When things go wrong in the airline industry, we have to compensate our passengers and we want to recover those costs directly from Nats."

A spokeswoman for Nats told Sky News: "Our legal team is reviewing the claim and will respond as required."

Yesterday we reported on a Which? survey ranking Virgin Media as having the worst overall customer service among broadband providers...

Virgin Media hit back - saying the annual survey used a sample size of 0.01% of its customer base, and on average 95% of customer complaints were resolved during a customer's first initial call.

And they told the Money blog improvements were being made to customer service...

"We are investing and making changes across our business to deliver tangible customer service improvements and ensure all customers receive the best possible service," the company said.

"For example, we're multi-skilling our teams and rolling out new IT platforms that make it easier for customers to get support and have issues resolved the first time they get in touch." 

Our comments section has been bombarded with people saying they are Virgin Media customers and sharing their experiences - all but two were negative.

Here's a selection...

Virgin Media broadband keeps dropping down in speed, sometimes it drops out all day. Phoning them makes no difference. We will change supplier when our contract is up. Alan Francis

I completely agree. I've had a year of unbelievably bad service relating to the installation of broadband in our new house. It's impossible to communicate with Virgin Media without severe trauma. Everything goes through one number into an automated system that simply doesn't work. Frank

Been with Virgin Media for 13 years and they have really dropped in customer service, they don't value loyalty and all their call handlers seem to be working from home. If there is a problem they transfer you to somebody else who you have to explain your issue to again. Plumby

We moved from Virgin Media for our broadband/TV a few years ago for precisely that reason - very poor customer service. Carol Bell

I left Virgin this week too. New customers get a good price whilst existing customers see prices triple. Non-UK call centre that just pass you around when anything goes wrong. Just cancelling took an hour on the phone. Glad there are new fibre providers in my area. Digger

Current Virgin Media customer and it gives me anxiety knowing I have to call them as it takes too long to get anyone on the call or they have disconnected me, or they say they cannot help and transfer me to another department and then drop the call. LisaJ

A reader calling themselves GH was more positive, saying: "I have just renewed with Virgin Media, great customer service."

And Wells85 said: "I am a Virgin customer and have been for the last nearly seven years and I think their broadband service is top notch and their customer service."

There are only a few weeks left until all cats in England need to be microchipped.

From 10 June, every moggie must have a chip and be registered on a database by the time they are 20 weeks old.

The numbered device, which shows up whenever an animal is scanned, is placed under the skin, usually around the shoulder area.

It is likely to cost £20-£30 and will be used to identify your cat if it gets lost.

Owners who miss the deadline could be fined up to £500.

There are also fears that pet insurance may be affected - if, for example, your cat is stolen and you make a claim.

There are more than nine million pet cats in England, and up to 2.3 million are unchipped, the environment department said.

Your feline's microchip "must be fitted by a trained professional", the government website says.

Vets, local councils, rescue and rehoming centres may all be able to help.

Owners are asked to keep the chip information up to date - for example, if they move house.

There are various databases that meet government standards on which to register the chip, including Animal Data, Animal Tracker and Lost Paws.

TSB has followed other major lenders in hiking mortgage rates this week - and theirs are pretty big.

First-time buyer, mover and remortgage rates are going up by as much as 0.45%.

Shared ownership/equity products will rise by up to 0.75%.

The lender is also withdrawing some tracker mortgages - and all house purchase and remortgage products (two and five-year fixed) without a fee.

It follows upward moves from NatWest, Barclays, Accord, Leeds Building Society and HSBC on Monday, and Coventry last week.

They are responding to swap rates - which dictate how much it costs to lend money - rising on the back of higher than expected US inflation data, and concerns this could delay interest rate cuts there. 

US trends often materialise elsewhere - though many economists are still expecting a base rate cut from 5.25% to 5% in the UK in June.

Ken James, director at Contractor Mortgage Services, told Newspage: "As lenders scramble for safety, the mortgage landscape appears increasingly grim. 

"With swap rates on the rise, lenders are transparent about their need for profit margins, prompting them to hike up their rates accordingly. 

"The significant uptick in rates for shared ownership mortgages suggests that TSB is distancing itself from this sector, leaving aspiring homeowners with even fewer options. 

"While TSB may be the latest target of criticism, they are not alone in seeking refuge in lifeboats, as more lenders follow suit.

"The mortgage market is once again thrown into turmoil, echoing past upheavals."

Holiday price increases may be starting to ease heading into the summer as competition heats up across the sector, Jet2 says.

Trips booked for this summer have seen "a modest increase" in cost compared with last year, the tour operator says - but prices have recently become "more competitive, particularly for April and May departures".

Russ Mould, an analyst at AJ Bell, said: "This could be a sign that the pricing power enjoyed by the sector, with people prepared to pay whatever it takes to get their week in the sun, is starting to ease."

People visiting Venice for day trips will have to pay a tourist tax from tomorrow.

The €5 charge is being implemented in part to tackle overtourism in the picturesque Italian city.

It won't be in place every day - the first charging period lasts from 25 April to 5 May. 

It will then come back into play on May 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26, June 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23, 29 and 30, and July 6, 7, 13 and 14 - between 8.30am and 4pm.

Some UK banks have potential loopholes in their security systems which leave customers at risk from online scammers, according to consumer champion Which?

The group looked at the apps and websites of 13 current account providers with assistance from experts.

Despite all using multi-layered security to try and prevent security breaches, some still fell below the expected standard.

Which? gave TSB a score of 54% for its mobile app security and 67% for online security - the lowest and second-lowest scores respectively.

The Co-operative Bank placed last for online security, with a score of 61%.

A lucky EuroMillions player in the UK has just one week left to claim their £1m prize.

The punter, who bought the ticket in Northumberland, won the cash in the UK Millionaire Maker draw on 3 November 2023.

Ten UK players were made millionaires that night - but one is still yet to come forward and collect their prize.

If the money is not claimed by 1 May, 180 days from the draw date, it will be put towards funding National Lottery projects across the country.

Andy Carter, senior winners' advisor at The National Lottery, said: "While there is still time, there is still hope - we've received valid claims on major National Lottery unclaimed prizes right up to the very last minute before - but time is running out fast. 

"Our appeal is simple, take five minutes out of your day to dig out and check your EuroMillions tickets. Those five minutes could be the most profitable five minutes of your life!"

The Northumberland player is not the only one missing out on a life-changing sum of money - four more major prizes remain unclaimed with just weeks to go.

By Daniel Binns, business reporter

The index, of the 100 most valuable companies on the London Stock Exchange, hit a record closing high of 8,023 points on Monday. It then went one better on Tuesday, when it closed at 8,044. And now it has achieved an all-time intraday (during the day) high of 8,090 this morning - and looks to be on course for another closing record this afternoon.

The score, up around 0.5% this morning, is based on a calculation of the total value of the shares on the index.

The figures will help boost investors and London markets after a disappointing few years, commentators have said.

However, as Sky's business presenter Ian King pointed out yesterday , the gains are modest in comparison with other stock markets around the world.

The highs are also the result of a fall in the value of the pound, rather than the UK's improving economic outlook. Currently, £1 buys $1.24 US or €1.16, a slight improvement on the five-month lows seen earlier this week.

One of the best-performing companies on the FTSE 100 this morning is British firm Reckitt Benckiser. It makes health, hygiene and nutrition products - including well-known brands such as Cillit Bang, Durex and Nurofen.

Shares in the Slough-based company have leapt more than 5% following the publication of its first-quarter results, which showed it beat like-for-like sales estimates despite price rises.

In contrast, shares in Lloyds Banking Group slipped 2% in early trading after the lender reported that pre-tax profits for the first three months of the year fell by 28% . However,  it has since made a modest recovery.

Section 21 notices allow landlords to evict tenants with two months' notice after their fixed-term contract ends. They don't have to give a reason - hence the "no fault" eviction label.

The Renters (Reform) Bill, which is set for its final stages in the  Commons today, includes a promise to ban them - but now Michael Gove, the housing secretary, has refused to recommit to his pledge to act before a general election.

Compounding this, the Renters Reform Coalition says several rounds of "damaging concessions" have "fundamentally weakened" a bill which will maintain a "central power imbalance" in favour of landlords.

Labour has suggested the no-fault eviction ban is "collapsing under the weight of vested interests".

Research from Sky News has found more than 100 MPs have earned over £10,000 a year as landlords over the course of this parliament.

A total of 83 Tories have declared they received the sizeable rental payments since the last election in December 2019, along with 18 Labour MPs, four Liberal Democrats and one member of the SNP.

Read that story here ...

Housing Secretary Michael Gove told the BBC he "hopes" the bill will become law ahead of the general election, but it was up to the House of Lords "to decide the rate of progress that we can make".

He said: "If opposition parties are supportive - and I believe that while they have some quibbles, they are supportive of the essential principle that we're bringing forward - then we can have Section 21 ended before the general election. That's the aim."

Research by YouGov, commissioned by homelessness charity Shelter, showed 943,000 tenants had been served Section 21 notices since April 2019.

Consumer champion Jane Hawkes, also known as  Lady Janey , has explained when Britons should use holiday booking and comparison websites - and the circumstances when it's advisable to book directly.

Jane tends to book her UK-based trips directly through the accommodation provider , because you can...

• Get lower rates as the host saves money on any online commission and agent fees;
• Negotiate additional benefits such as upgrades, late/early check-in and free add-ons;
• Take advantage of last-minute availability bookings with discount prices;
• Have one port of call for changes/cancellations/refunds;
• Avoid third party processing fees;
• Accrue loyalty points. 

Jane says she does this herself when booking one of her "go-to" self-catering holiday cottages in Wales, and benefits from reduced rates as a returning guest. 

"We have built a relationship with our hosts over the years and we appreciate being able to contact them directly to discuss bookings," she says. 

If you're booking a holiday cottage, she recommends choosing the letting agency carefully as many online platforms are simply affiliate or listing sites for other companies. 

"If you make a booking using an affiliate or listing site things can get confused and complicated if things go wrong. Always ask who takes responsibility if there is a problem and check the terms and conditions of contracts carefully," Jane says. 

What about trips abroad? 

Conversely, Jane doesn't recommend booking directly for trips abroad as "you will have far less financial protection should one of the elements go wrong". 

You'll have more protection when something goes wrong if you book a package holiday with a reputable travel agent, she says, so your holiday is covered under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements 2018. 

It is also advisable to pay by credit card for additional Section 75 protection or debit card for chargeback. 

"They are also a direct port of call for help when you need it, unlike third party online booking sites."

If she is just booking a flight , Jane says she will use comparison sites to compare prices but then book directly with the airline . 

"Third party booking platforms may be able to offer cheaper flights due to bulk-buy discounts from the airlines. However, the discount might not be worth it should any issues arise," she says. 

Jane explains that if there are cancellations or changes to bookings, additional fees may be applicable for both the airline and the third party. 

"Refund or compensation requests for cancelled or delayed flights tend to be more difficult when a third party is involved," she says. 

Plus, contacting third parties to discuss a claim can prove a challenge as many companies offer customer service support online only, she says. 

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