Cashing rebate checks for vacations

Many retailers are offering deals to encourage you to spend the money. Here's another idea: how about a vacation?

Apparently, lots of people are planning to use their federal tax rebate to pay for a vacation this year.

With so many people booking by internet, airlines no longer pay travel agents to issue tickets. You pay a commission for that, but most other travel services remain free to you.

You can use frequent flier miles and credit card bonus points to pay your air fare.

Where to go?

Disney, the parent company of 6abc, has special deals for late summer and early fall that cover everything but airfare.

There's always a package available somewhere in Las Vegas.

And the hottest ticket this year may be a cruise, because all major expenses are covered up front.

Agents say they are constantly flooded with information about last-minute package deals - ones you may not be able to find on your own.

If you have a particular destination in mind, request an alert when a bargain surfaces.