How do I travel to another state?

First, get a map or an atlas (you'll have to buy it, this sort of thing isn't available online) and find where you are going and locate the closest airport. For example, if you are going to Lawrence, Kansas, the closest airport is probably Kansas City, Missouri. The closest airport to Boston is Logan (in Boston), but it's generally cheaper to get a flight to a much smaller airport like TF Green in Providence, Rhode Island or the old Hanscom Air Force Base. But that depends upon how much an airline is charging. So look for the closest airport but also look into alternatives as you might save some cash that way.

You can figure out where an airline goes by checking the airline's website. Not every airline goes to every airport so do this research before you start making calls. The biggest airlines are American, United, Delta and US Air. There are also some smaller airlines which often provide major discounts, like Southwest, Song and Jet Blue.

Then telephone either the airline or a big travel website like Expedia, Priceline, Orbitz or Travelocity. Do so as far in advance as possible -- you will save money that way. Then ask whoever you get on the phone and they'll walk you through it. I'm not going into detail because some things vary, such as how much luggage you can take. You can bring many things but guns have to be checked and certain items (guns, knives, box cutters, nail clippers, etc.) cannot be taken into the airplane cabin with you and will have to be checked in your luggage. That's all post-9/11 rules.

And I'm suggesting calling rather than booking online simply because you're new at this. Next time, it'll be old hat.

How come online is cheaper than calling the airlines?? Wouldn't the airlines be losing money to the guys doing it online? Just wondering?