First off, I want to thank all those who've answered. For some reason, I didn't receive anyone's message (and didn't remember the name of the forum as I submitted to a few to ask my q's). Again--apologies and thanks for the quick help.

Some details about our trip. I am a college professor, so leaving around Christmas is a good time to take off. I'm flexible on leave/return dates around that time. We are leaving from Salt Lake City international airport. Most the deals we find are from major airports such as LAX, Miami, etc., so usually the deals we find mean we also have to consider travel to LA (abt. 12 hrs. driving or 1 hr flying). I understand I'll pay a premium for Christmas travel, and have tried to convince my wife that June-July is a better time as the whole family can be together for a full month, but she wants to visit Chile when it is summer in Chile. She also wants to take the kids (2 little boys, and a lap-baby).

So, quick, specific question--I've read a lot about consolidators; who is a reliable one? Should I pay a subscription to a particular service (is it worth it)?