In today’s society, it seems so easy to go anywhere at any time. UK airports are offering more and more destinations, so we have more choice than ever. But, great deals sometimes turn out to be much more expensive than we first thought.

Just how easy is it to find a cheap flight these days? I’ve found that companies like Jet2 and Easyjet end up adding on loads of taxes and fees – even making you pay to check in online! – and so the flights don’t end up being a bargain at all.

There are so many sites out there promising cheap flights – so which one is best? There’s probably not one answer, but here are my favourite places to find cheap flights!

cheapflights.co.uk

This site pretty much does exactly what it says on the tin – it finds cheap flights. I’ve often found deals on here that are much cheaper than booking direct. The site is pretty easy to use but it doesn’t have much info on the destinations, so you’d better know where you want to go!

lastminute.com

I’ve always been a bit sceptical about lastminute.com – it has always seemed more expensive than other sites but there is one way to get some really great deals -book last minute. That’s what this site is designed for and if you are prepared to risk it and wait, you’ll pick up some bargains (like my flight and hotel deal to Rome last year!)

ebookers.com

You can find cheap flights here, but the real deals are to be had when you book more than one thing -a flight and hotel, or a flight and a hire car. Especially good for European flights, but you can pick up some good deals to further flung destinations.

When it comes to flying, is there an etiquette? Here are our top tips for keeping everyone happy on your flight.

Can I take my shoes off? Sure, if your feet are clean and fresh. If you’ve been dashing through the airport at speed or you use your trainers for the gym, then please do keep them on.

Can I use my overhead light? Well, that is what they are made for, so if you want to read or play a game and you need light, then pop it on. If you’re trying to sleep and your neighbour is doing the same, try not to get annoyed, after all some people don’t have the luxury of being able to sleep on planes.

Should I put my seat back? Aeroplanes are uncomfortable enough, so if you want to recline your seat, you should feel free to do so. However, spare a thought for the person behind you and do check to make sure that you don’t crush them or spill their food before you hit the recline button.

How to handle annoying children. Parents should be responsible for their children. All passengers have the right to travel in peace without having their seats kicked or their hair pulled or being talked at incessantly. However, very young children who cry are just something you’ll have to put up with; they can’t help it after all!

Don’t clog the aisle. Ok, so the plane has landed – hooray! That doesn’t mean you have to all cram into the aisle before the doors are opened. Get your luggage ready, return to your seat and leave promptly when the way is clear. Likewise, don’t hold up the line by not being prepared and scrabbling to get all of your things together.

If it is possible, make sure you choose flights at non-peak times. Flights scheduled at non-peak times will most likely have empty seats; you can utilize the extra spaces to allow your children to stretch or sleep in a more comfortable position. This can be very useful if your are flying long flights; children have the tendency of acting up when they are not comfortable and giving them enough space to get comfortable in will make a huge difference.

Make sure you leave early for the airport. Sprinting down the terminal may not be a problem at all when you are alone, but having children with you while your are running for your flight can be disastrous. Use the extra time at the airport to make sure your children have everything they need for the flight. You can also give explanations about the flight, make sure they understands it, and ask if they would like to have anything with them for the flight. Pay close attention to your children’s needs and wants, and make sure they are fully comfortable during the flight. Some in-flight entertainment, including comic books or portable gaming device, will ensure you a pleasant flight.