The Associated Press suggests that if you've been waiting for the lowest possible airfare for a trip this summer, it may be time to get off the fence.

"Fareshave dropped for months while travelers held off buying tickets becausethey were afraid of losing a job or worried about affording even ascaled-back vacation. But with July 4th fast approaching and jet fuelprices rising, some fares could be set to climb again."

The Wall Street Journal, USA Today and various network TV reports are also indicating that prices are on the rise.

The WSJ notes that, "U.S. airlines on Thursday appeared to be on the verge of a secondsuccessful domestic airfare hike for this year, as sharp cuts to theindustry's seat capacity balances the loss in passenger demand."

The report also noted that, "Delta Air Lines matched an attempted airfare hike made lateWednesday by American Airlines and followed quickly by United andContinental.

That leaves just US Airways, the country's largest domesticcarrier, to follow suit. Rivals have managed toraise their prices $10 to $20 a round-trip for most of their domesticroutes."


Here's some more travel news you can use:

*  The New York Times reports that while the global recession has sent prices plummeting on airfares, hotels and cruises, it is having the opposite effect on rental cars.  In May the average rate for a weekly airport rental of a compact car booked 7 days in advance was $345.99, up a whopping 73% compared with $199.65 for the same month last year.

*  The New York Times also spotlights some rental car deals currently running on airline Web sites under mileage partner offers. For example, Delta is offering up to 20 percent off Hertz with the discount code CDP 165385. 

*  Fees have mounted from U.S. airline companies over the past few months. CNN.com has listed some of the most common charges – for one-way flights – passengers can expect to pay.

*  WalletPop.com offers some "Roadtrip travel tips" that will help you save cash on hotels. Cheggit out!