[quote name='fugazi_chichimon']I use kayak.com to find flights going home and back to school. It's great at finding you the cheapest option among the different airlines.[/quote]
Once you use kayak.com, then go directly to the airline website to buy the ticket. Many airlines offer the cheapest fares directly from their site.
I use several sites to find the flights, then buy them directly from the airline. It usually saves a few bucks and almost all of the fees that sites like cheaptickets charge.
Also, OP, if you buy a ticket last minute, don't be surprised if you get the "special" treatment at security.
TBW