Savvy travelers know this is the time of year when deals are popping.

Just after the kids return to school — and before the big year-end holidays are under way — airlines look to fill seats, and hotels and resorts need to fill beds.

Here is an ideal example of tremendous savings for those lucky enough to be able to get away now versus later, when prices reach their yearly high.

Code-sharing American Airlines and Mexicana Airlines are offering a bargain round-trip rate of $128 to either Cabos San Lucas-Los Cabos or Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, on trips finished on or before Dec. 31. The rate inclusive of all taxes and fees is $346.94.