Not only does it hurt the wallet to fill up the car's tank, but fuel surcharges on airline tickets are sending prices soaring to outrageous highs. Today, the taxes, fees, and fuel surcharges often total up to more than the base airfare rate.

Case in point is today's best airfare deal...

I found a terrific one-way rate of just $88 to Boise, Idaho from United Airlines. Factor in all of the 'extras' and the inclusive rate is $174 each way. Still, this is a great deal considering that it's valid seven days a week through April 26, 2009 — without blackout dates. Trips require a 21-day advance purchase notice.

United Airlines will permit travelers to add a $56 fee to this rate for an optional stopover in Denver. What a deal to get two trips in one. Die-hard ski fans might consider this option to get in the best of the Rockies.

Northwest Airlines matches the rate to Boise, but requires a round-trip purchase of $348, inclusive. Follow the same rules as above.

This offer has no ticket-by date which means it could expire at any moment. Buy tickets immediately or face paying the next best deal of $569 round-trip.

www.ual.com , www.nwa.com

From the capital city of Boise, hit the road with a rental car and head east Sun Valley just outside of Ketchum. The trip is under a three-hour drive at about 160 miles. Attractions are the rugged 'American Alps,' or the Sawtooth Mountains, the Sawtooth National Forest and Challis National Forest. Sun Valley is in the middle of the Wood River Valley and the central Idaho Rockies. Visit during the summer for back to nature adventures, miles of hiking trails, camping to first-class golf courses. Skiers will find resorts across Idaho - and especially Sun Valley - a unique treat and change of pace for boarding and downhill. www.visitsunvalley.com