This essential guide for today's traveler features timesaving tips for planning, booking, and troubleshoot your trip—on and off the Web. If you've ever tried to find a sale fare you saw advertised for a flight, only to turn up much higher prices, or discovered that the hotel you booked wasn't exactly "steps away from the ocean," you know that the do-it-yourself era of travel can mean something else entirely: you're on your own. Now travel reporter and New York Times contributor Susan Stellin helps readers navigate the sometimes overwhelming logistics of travel, from researching trip plans to avoiding pitfalls on the road. This comprehensive guidebook presents practical advice on the most useful Web sites, strategies for finding the best deals, and resources to help you decide where and when to go. It also provides crucial tips to ensure your trip doesn't disappoint, including: What to research before booking a hotel How to avoid hidden fees and expensive penalties What your credit card covers when you rent a car Whom to call if you need a doctor far from home And much more!