Traveling is something that most everyone does but trying to find cheap airline tickets can sometimes be a challenge. I traveled full-time for a company over a five-year period, as well as traveling for vacations so I learned really fast how to find low cost airfare. The key is working with reputable online travel agencies, which can offer you the best prices, far greater than your local travel company could.
Some of my favorites include Expedia.com, Orbitz.com, Hotwire.com, Travelocity.com, and Priceline.com. Each of these online resources is completely qualified and knows how to provide great service and even greater prices. For instance, I was flying from Kansas City, Missouri to Sacramento, California one year and at first, I checked with a local travel company. Without the 21-day advance ticket purchase, I was quoted almost $700. However, I logged onto Expedia.com and after checking several options, I found an almost identical travel plan for $378.
In addition to the places you look for low airfares, you also want to be as flexible as possible. In fact, the more flexible you are the better chance of securing a great rate. For example, if you were planning to leave out of town on a Monday and return on a Friday, you might also check the price of coming back Thursday night or Saturday morning. Many times, one day can be the difference in hundreds of dollars. The same is true with the time of day. In this case, you might save more money by flying out early or late rather than fly during the busiest hours.
Then, consider buying two tickets instead of one round trip ticket. To give you an idea of how this works, you might be able to secure two one-way tickets cheaper than you could a round trip ticket. While it is usually the other way around, sometimes this will save money so at least consider it. Then, look at package deals that would also include a hotel room. Again, by choosing a package, you could save literally hundreds of dollars.
Of course, the more time you can plan the better price you will enjoy. If you were to wait one or two weeks to buy your airline ticket, you will pay more, than if you buy 21 days out or more. The more you purchase in advance the better the better price you get. Although this is not always possible, try to book in advance whenever you can. With good planning, you have many excellent options for cutting the price when you fly.
Online Airfares–Finding the Best Deal