[CharlieBoy]

I usually SHOP prices (airfare only or hotel only) using the aggregator sites. I never buy through them though. The airline's and hotel's prices have always been the same or less, plus I cut out the middle man in case something goes wrong. No point in adding another layer of complication if things should go sideways. For the same price, deal with the end provider.

That said, I have done packages (airfare and hotel bundled) that were cheaper than I could have done on my own. No problems so far. (be sure and read the fine print regarding lay-overs, room location, blah blah blah).