The cost for the airline tickets took most of our budget for the trip. United Airline offered the cheapest tickets by far. However, using the Expidia web site we somehow managed to get them cheaper than going through the United Airlines online booking site. Still don't know how we did it but didn't complain. Looking back, we should have spent the money saved on upgrading to Premium Economy for the flights from Sydney to San Francisco and back. Remember to Sign up for the United Airlines Frequent Flyer program before booking. Each member of your family travelling must have their own Frequent Flyer Member number.