Some airline tickets now half the price they were during the holidays

CLEVELAND (CNN) - Airfares have hit their lowest levels in 12 months, but you have to book now because like most deals, these prices won't last long.

Rick Seany of FareCompare.com said domestic flights over the next six weeks are priced 20 percent to 50 percent cheaper than they were over the holidays. That means a $400-flight a few weeks ago is now a little more than $200, before taxes and fees.

The president of airfarewatchdog.com says flights to Europe are dropping by as much as 50 percent to 60 percent from just a few weeks ago. Of course, there's a catch, or more like a few catches. Fees for things like early check-in, priority seating and checked bags all remain the same. So keep those in mind and add them to the total.

Plus, flights to Europe now are subject to a new fuel surcharge that took effect this year. Fuel costs have been rising and that could add hundreds to your ticket price.

But demand is low right now and that's causing the airlines to drop their prices in order to fill seats. So experts say shop around. Check a variety of websites including the airlines.

Try to fly on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Those are usually the cheapest.

Finally, don't wait. Booking one or two weeks before a flight will likely cost you more than planning ahead.