MADISON, Wis. -- Summer vacation season is right around the corner, but many are saying they'll only take a trip if they don't have to break their budget to do it.

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People can make their own plans by comparing prices on the half dozen travel Web sites or they can consult with a local travel agent.

Either way, WISC-TV found that flexibility, patience and Wednesdays are the key to getting the best deal.

Many people have heard of Travelocity, Orbitz and Expedia, the big three of "travel booking" Web sites. However, these typically partner with major airlines or package agencies.

WISC-TV found three newer Web sites that are great for fare-watching, adding flexibility to one's search.

Kayak.com compares domestic travel costs of many flights, then connects people directly to the airline's Web site so they can skip transaction fees.

Mobissimo.com is similar but it has better access to international fares, including a "community" to share stories about their savings to specific locations.

And other sites, like Farecast.com, track the cost of fares over a 30-day period. It can also show users nearby airports offering a similar price.

"As long as people have flexibility when they go, great deals are still out there. They're still available," said Moses Altsech, an economics professor at Edgewood College.

But people will need patience to comparison shop and should start their planning early. Experts said fares currently hit bottom around two months before one's travel dates.

A McFarland family started checking travel prices to Palm Springs and compared it to packages a local travel agent suggestion. The Blankenship family shared with WISC-TV how it worked to their advantage.

The family said it's looking forward to their spring break trip, which will be 17-year-old Claire's last.

"It is very important for us. As kids get older and go their separate ways, this is an opportunity to pull everybody back together and spend quality time, said Tom Blankenship, father of three teenagers.

The family wanted to keep the trip within their budget. They checked some Internet sites and then worked with a travel agent.

"This time it was a little bit tighter -- the money amount I gave her. (The travel agent) went above and beyond to find a deal with our limitations," said Bev Blankenship, mother of three teenagers.

Pat Nemec, who owns Far Horizons Travel Agency, said that if people are flexible, there are deals available from Mexico to Disney in Florida and even New York City.

"All these places are hurting as far as tourism and business. They are running low airfare, and hotels have special packages as well," Nemec said.

The Blankenships flexibility with their travel plans has then heading to Cancun for a great trip that won't break their budget.

"There definitely are deals out there to be found," said Bev Blankenship.

"It's nice to get away with everybody and spend time with family," said Claire Blankenship.

The family used some tips that Consumer Reports and Bankrate.com recommend for getting good deals on travel.

They recommended being flexible with plans for the best price and using patience to compare travel site fares with the airlines, which could save people $12 a ticket in transaction fees.

Most airlines charge $15 for each checked bag, so travelers should stick with their carry-on bag if possible.

Also, most travel experts said if people can fly on Wednesday, it's the day with the cheapest seats. If one airline starts a sale, by Wednesday the rest typically match it.

Finally, those looking to save money should avoid trying to book a deal on the weekend. Sales usually start Monday with the price match on Wednesday.