Best thing I ever did personally was get a mileage credit card[0]. Made booking flights so much more transparent. I can see the total round trip price up front,

Best thing I ever did personally was get a mileage credit card[0]. Made booking flights so much more transparent. I can see the total round trip price up front, and compare them easily, and never get a surprise on the final price. Its really nice. [0]: mines through Capital One Venture but there's many ones out there, research which works for you!