Make a list of your plans and have them handy and easily accessible while you book.
Wednesdays are the generally the cheapest day to travel. . [1] X Research source You can often find good deals on last minute flights, especially if you buy in conjunction with a hotel and/or rental car (known as a package deal). [2] X Research source Flying from alternative airports can often be cheaper and offer better connection times than large airport hubs. [3] X Research source For example, if you want to go to Washington, DC, consider flying to Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI) instead of National Airport (DCA) or Dulles International (IAD). BWI is just slightly outside of Washington and has excellent transportation into the city from the airport.
Book approximately six weeks in advance if you can. This will generally give you the best flight options and prices. [5] X Research source [6] X Research source Tuesdays around 3pm Eastern time are the cheapest time to book your flight. [7] X Research source Travel sites collate information on the best flight prices and available times. These include Kayak, Expedia, CheapTickets, and Priceline. Travel sites automatically allow you to compare prices and factor in travel variables. It’s a good idea to compare travel site prices as well, as their respective offers can also vary greatly. Airline websites are also an excellent place to book tickets. It’s not uncommon to find cheaper and better flights on airline sites. [8] X Research source For more options, consider one way travel on different airlines for each leg of your trip. [9] X Research source
Note if the price includes such items as taxes and baggage fees. Read each flight’s cancellation policies and change fees. Not knowing these in advance can cost you a lot of money and time if you need to cancel or change your flight.
Follow websites prompts. Every site will ask you to fill in information on items such as your name, number of travels, frequent flyer number, seat and meal preferences, and credit card information in order to book. You can usually pay baggage fees and select seats during your booking sessions. It’s a good idea to do this in advance to minimize your time checking in at the airport. If you’re traveling internationally, you will need a passport to confirm the reservation. Decide if you want to pay for extras such as upgrades in seat class or travel insurance. Many travel and airline sites will offer further special deals for add-ons such as rental car or hotel room.
Follow the “24-hour rule. ” Within 24 hours of booking your flight, check the prices one last time. If the fare has decreased, call the airline and rebook the flight at the lower price with no penalty. [10] X Research source
Make a list of your plans and have them available while you talk to the travel or airline agent.
Give the agent the information on your tentative travel plans. Also let them know pertinent information including your seat preferences, and if you are flexible in your travel dates and airlines. Like with online booking, consider being flexible in your plans for the best prices and times. [11] X Research source A good agent will alert you to all of the variables in booking your flight like alternative airports and smaller airlines. They’ll allow you to decide what offer is best for yourself.
If you find an agent you like but they don’t have the best offer, let them know about the lower price you found and see if they can match or better it.
Call the agent and let them know which flight you’d like to book. Answer any questions they may have about items such as available seats or your meal preferences. Ask questions about the booking. Find out about extra fees including taxes, baggage fees, and upgrade costs. Ask about cancellation and refund policies.
