Hey, confused traveler! We respect the simple fact that resorts, airlines, cruise ships and other travel- related businesses have to make money to stay in business. However, sometimes they advertise basically deceptive deals that are just too good to be true.

Typical is an airline ad for a $99 flight, when your actual out-of-pocket cost will be at least $125. Of course, some of the add-ons are fees and taxes the airline must pay Uncle Sam, but that doesn’t make the promo any less deceptive.

The same applies to deals offering $599 cruises that will take at least $1,000 from your wallet. The cruise line has to pay some of that for such stuff as government taxes and fuel price spikes. However, the ad deliberately doesn’t mention you’ll also have to shell out for compulsory tips, boozes, elite dining charges, excursions and other added costs that hike the price quote considerably.

As a savvy traveler, it’s your responsibility to try for the best deals at the lowest possible prices. All the information is online and at your travel agent’s office, if you’re willing to make comparisons before you commit to a specific trip. Get savvy about ways to economize with deals including off-season discounts, group trips, last-minute sailings and all other potential money-saving offers.

We certainly don’t begrudge airlines, cruise ships and hotels for making fair profits. We travelers just want to get our money’s worth, too.