There are many websites promoting cheaper airline tickets. If you compare prices between the sites, and some sites even compare between other sites for you, you can find the best possible price. Many of the websites have a lowest price guarantee, so be sure to check the fine print in case you qualify for it.
Another way to save money is to request an e-ticket, instead of having traditional paper tickets delivered to you before the flight. They also have the safety feature of not being able to lose the tickets before the flight, especially if you book far in advance.
You can buy two “back-to back” cheaper round trip tickets instead of unrestricted tickets, which are more expensive. By using half of each set of round trip tickets, you save money. The major draw back to this is you can’t use them toward frequent flyer miles.
If you travel during the middle of the week, instead of over the weekend, you can usually purchase cheaper airline tickets. The weekends are higher volume, so seats are at a premium.
Many times a flight with layovers will be cheaper than a direct flight, so if time isn’t an issue, you can save money there. Flying stand-by is also a money saver. You take the risk of not leaving at a scheduled time, but if you have an open-ended departure and arrival time, flying stand-by saves you quite a bit.
Package deals that are bundled with either car rental or hotel stays can often get you a reduced airfare. This is a good deal, as long as you were already planning on having those expenses on your trip.
Try adding yourself to travel website e-mail newsletters, as they send out occasional special deals. If you are able to travel on short notice, some of the deals are well worth the money.
Another great way to save on airline ticket prices is to fly to or from a smaller airport within driving distance of your destination. It’s possible to save up to $100 a ticket by doing this. It pays to do your research of the area surrounding your destination.
Another way to save money is by contacting a travel agent. Sometimes they are aware of deals that aren’t publicized on the websites. People have even found great travel deals in the newspaper.
One last way to save money on airline tickets is to book as early as possible, before the prices rise. Keep an eye on the market value of the tickets and try to determine the best time to purchase your tickets.
Research and educating yourself is the biggest key to saving money when purchasing airline tickets.
1 Comment
Really great article. Also if people plan on traveling with bags they should check the rates for that since most airlines are charging for it. Except Southwest I blieve its still free up to 50lbs. Anyways Cheers great site.