I agree that it's the logding and meals after you get there that can "getcha," and I'd urge you to study all that out.
Also, I agree about booking flights early - better fares and better seat selections. I book as far in advance as I can (sometimes a year), and I have saved bundles of money.
Yahoo Travel has never failed me, and I do 2-4 flights a year.
Through YT, I usually search out several itinerary possibilities -- changing the dates of departure and arrival. Sometimes a Thursday departure is cheaper than one of Friday. Sometimes a night time departure is less expensive.
During the last 3 weeks before a flight is to depart, you can count on dramatic price increases, sometimes day by day, as the flight fills up.
Moral: Search several itineraries with various dates, and book as early as you can.
Hi. You should not be worrying about the little $ of the flight ticket. Think about the expense in New York. Everything here is expensive. =( But, enjoy your trip.