Before Americans board planes, they visit the internet. According to the U.S. Travel Association (USATA), the Internet was the country’s number one source of travel information in 2009. Americans didn’t see any reason to call airlines or travel agencies, but they did not hesitate to use search engines or travel agency websites. Are travel websites really the best places to find the best deals?

Many sites advertise ridiculously low prices. For example, a $99 flight from New York City (NYC) to London. The price you see may not include taxes, which can lead to higher costs. According to a Consumer Reports Webwatch 2004 research report, the most expensive fare jump was $748.

Clicking on a great deal might lead to potential travelers finding that the seat they are interested in is not available. It is possible for travelers to spend hours on the internet comparing prices, only to find that the best price has gone by the time they book. Others may not be able to find a fair price for their return flight. What is the situation?

“When you’re buying a ticket online, your seats aren’t confirmed until you enter your credit card information, so the seat can be lost while you type,”John Ferry, CEO at CheapTrips (www.cheaptripsandfreeairfare.com “However, if you’re on the phone with one of our agents, they secure the price as they talk to you on the phone. You’re always better off speaking to a person.”

Travel agents are able to compare prices much faster than average computer users — closing deals often in under five minutes — and can advise travelers on hidden fees like checked-baggage.

Ferry states that most websites don’t publish the best prices. Cheaper wholesale tickets are often offered by airlines that can’t be sold online. “Our travel representatives and vendors buy these confidential tickets in bulk, then sell them to our customers for less than online ticket prices.”

You should look for travel websites that allow flexible booking if your goal is to book your flight online. Unfortunately, many tickets cannot even be refunded if you get a better deal. CheapTrips offers its members the ability to cancel and a complete money-back guarantee in the event that a lower price is found within 24 hours. Free trips are also offered every day on the site. These trips are first-come-first-serve basis.

It is important to know exactly what the ticket price includes. CheapTrips provides benefits such as emergency funds and tickets home for emergencies, while other companies offer only a seat on the plane.

For more information, please call 800-383-708 or visit www.cheaptripsandfreeairfare.com.

The pace of life today is rapid. The rise of digital technology has allowed people to communicate with each other via the internet and simultaneously check their children’s soccer scores. Consumers can expect the same conveniences and benefits from all businesses, except their insurance companies, thanks to the internet age. Although 98 per cent of insurance claims are processed within 30 working days, it can be frustrating for those who have difficulty paying their medical bills.

It is no longer enough to be insured, as nearly two-thirds of American households have less income than 2002. It is important to find out how fast and easy your insurance company processes and pays claims. This is critical for both financial recovery and physical recovery.

According to a recent survey, 66% of workers would struggle to pay for the financial burdens associated with serious injuries and illnesses. Only 49% have enough money to cover out-of pocket expenses. Employers are being forced to reduce costs as rising health care costs put even more financial pressure on their employees.

* Increasing employees’ health care insurance copayments.

* Increasing employees’ share of premium.

* Implementing high-deductible health plans with health savings accounts.

A lot of people will have to wait for up to a few months before receiving their insurance payments. Many insurance companies are able to provide customers with fast service thanks to modern technology and better understanding of their needs. This is just one example. AflacIt is almost rare for insurance companies to offer policies that include claims processing, approval, and payment in a single day.

In the past, fast payment policies were viewed as a luxury. It is now a necessity. It’s vital to have funds readily available for serious illness or injury. Your insurance company should be able to respond quickly.

Aflac’s One Day Pay Promise can be found at aflac.com/onedaypay.