Here are a few more last-minute travel contests. For many of these, you’ll need to get a little creative. Have fun and good luck!

March 30, 2008 -- Got your bags packed? United Airlines is sponsoring “The Suitcase Contest.” Enter by decorating a suitcase of not more than 62 inches in length, width, or height with a Denver theme. The judging will be held at Pints Pub on West 13th Avenue in Denver, Colorado. Be sure to arrive early with your bags packed. The judging will done by 1:30pm March 30th, and the winner will be announced at 2:30pm. The prize is a same-day, two-day trip for two to London with accommodations paid at London Marriot Hotel Regents Park.

March 30, 2008 -- Do you consider yourself a spendthrift? CheapTickets is sponsoring an essay contest where entrants write in 500 words or less how they save money while traveling. The essay should also show how your savings enhanced your overall travel experience. One winner will receive the “Ultimate Vacation Package,” a 5-day, 4-night getaway for four that includes air, hotel, and car rental for any destination in the United States. For more information visit the CheapTickets contest website.

April 7, 2008 -- What do your kids know about Latin America? Continental Airlines and the National Association of Hispanic Publications have teamed up host an essay contest for Hispanic high school students. In 200-300 words, students must address the impact of Latin America on life in the United States. Essays may be written in Spanish or English. Accompanying the essay, students must submit a cover letter with their name, address, telephone number, name of high school, date of graduation, and the signature of their high school counselor (to confirm enrollment). Send entries to essays@nahp.org or by mail to the address below:

Kerry Stackpole
Executive Director, National Association of Hispanic Publications
Continental Airlines "Destino: Latinoamerica" Contest
8201 Greensboro Drive, Suite 300
McLean, Virginia 22102

Winners receive 6 tickets for travel in the United States to any destination Continental Airlines flies.

April 20, 2008 -- Need help finding a hot Italian? No, not that one; I mean the kind you eat. Quick Chek restaurants is sponsoring the “Search for the Quick Chek Hot Italian” contest where entrants must find the Hot Italian hidden at one of the Quick Chek’s stores and take a photograph with it. You may also enter by a mail-in entry available at Quick Chek stores. The winner receives a dream vacation to Italy valued at $5000. With a prize like that, maybe you’ll find that other hot Italian, too.

May 11, 2008 -- Are you the jokester in your family? American Greetings is hosting the “Think You’re Funny? Prove It!” contest. Entrants can select from one of three cards with a fun picture posted on the front. Write your own caption for the card, and if it’s funny, you could win $1,000 in prize money. Visit the American Greetings contest for more information.