Book online: Many airlines offer online only specials. If you were to call in and get a quote for a flight, there is a good chance that if you spend five to ten minutes on the computer you can get the same flights for less through an online special. For example, Southwest airlines has their "Wanna get away" flights starting at $39 each way. This is an online only special. If you were to book a flight that costs $39 online, through the phone, it would cost you $69.

Use miles, frequent fliers, etc.: Even if you do not have a frequent flier membership, other people do. In many cases people have a few miles, or points with one airline, and no longer use that airline. They are often willing to trade, sell at a discount, or even give you their miles or points. If you do not know anyone with points or miles, trying looking in the local classifieds, or online on Craigslist, etc. If you could get enough points for a full ticket, and pay half the price of buying the ticket outright, you just saved yourself a nice chunk of money. Of course you have to take the time to look for the miles or points, or to call your credit card company and cash in your points, but if you do, the savings you find can be put in your cash reserve.

Buddy Passes: Most airlines allow their employees a certain number of passes each year for friends and family to fly free with them. While most people chose to use these for their family, etc. you can often find people willing to sell them to you, or trade them for something etc. Once again, ask around, check the classifieds, etc. You usually have to fly standby with these passes, so you will want to have them check and see which flights have space so that you do not miss your vacation because you are trying to get on a full flight.

Buy with a cash back rewards credit card: There are some credit cards that give you 3% back on travel. So, if you are booking a flight, and can't find a good deal, or even if you did find a good deal, save another 3% by paying for your flight with a cash back rewards card, and just be sure to pay the card off before it is due so that you do not pay interest. You can then take that 3% and put it directly into your cash reserve. It may not be a whole lot, but every little bit helps, and it is amazing how $3 on this flight and $10 on that can really start to add up, especially if you travel frequently, for work or for pleasure.