Traveling this spring? Look for deals now - Five Stars to Under-the-StarsFive Stars to Under-the-Stars

You’re just ambling back to work after the holidays, and you’re still sorting through your December bills. Buying a ticket for a spring trip to Europe or a summer cruise isn’t really on your radar.

And that’s exactly why airlines and cruise lines usually announce fare sales just after the holidays. Bookings typically slow as we all trudge back to work and try to keep those New Year’s resolutions about financial caution.

This year’s airfare sales may be delayed until after the current Arctic vortex clears. (Marketing dollars aren’t terribly effective when the airwaves are splattered with images of stranded air travelers.)

But cruise lines are already offering deals. (January and early February are their ‘wave’ period, when cruise companies try to jump start spring and summer bookings. For instance, passengers who book between January 6 and 8 on Norwegian‘s European summer cruises qualify for a $200 onboard credit and a stateroom upgrade. Celebrityis offering passengers who book Alaska cruises by Jan. 28 their choice of one of three upgrades: a $300 onboard spending credit, free gratuities or a free beverage package including wine and spirits.

When the airfare deals do kick in, they will likely be for tickets to Europe with traveling beginning before April 1 and tickets to frigid destinations.Those looking to escape the chill with a Florida trip may find deals are few. Still, if your toes are turning blue and your nose has frostbite, it might be worth the price to get someplace warm