How to Compare Air Fares

Air fares are usually one of the most significant expenses when planning a vacation, and paying for flights can eat into your budget for outdoor activities and adventure tours. With new discount airlines entering the market each year, there are often many options to choose from when trying to book an airfare. There are resources available to help you compare airfares and get the best deal.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Compare online with travel aggregator sites. Websites like Kayak.com and BookingBuddy.com will compare available airfares from dozens of online retailers. Plug in your intended travel date and route, and these sites will show you deals from major websites including Expedia.com, Travelocity.com and Priceline.com.

Step 2

Compare like with like. A cheap flight may not be worth it if it includes a four-hour stopover, or takes a less direct route to your destination. Some budget airlines operate between smaller airports away from city centers, making the taxi ride to your hotel almost as expensive as the flight. Read the fine print and know what you're getting into before confirming your booking.

Step 3

Look for special discounts. You may be eligible for miles or cash back on flight bookings through your credit card, checking account or rewards program. Students and military personnel qualify for discount travel on most major airlines, and some auto insurance policies also offer discounts on air travel.

Step 4

Stick with what you know. If it's down to two competing airlines, go with the one you travel on most. You'll be more likely to convince the checking-gate staff that you deserve an upgrade or coveted aisle seat if you've shown loyalty to the airline in the past.

Step 5

Check different dates for the best rates. If you can be flexible with your arrival and departure dates, you'll likely find a better fare. In general, mid-week flights are less expensive than weekend flights to most major tourist destinations. You'll get a better deal one day before a holiday weekend or one day after, when the crush is over.

Step 6

Be aware of hidden costs. Most discount airlines charge extra for snacks and drinks, checked baggage, and in-flight entertainment. Even some major airlines now charge passengers for bags. Make sure you factor in these hidden expenses before deciding on the best airfare, and if you can't live without the perks--like in-seat movies on a six-hour flight--book somewhere else.

Step 7

Read up on cancellation policies. A more expensive airfare might be worthwhile if it comes with a flexible policy on flight changes. Emergencies do happen, and you can be slugged with fees of $50 or more for last-minute cancellations or flight changes on many airlines.

Article Written By Hailey Williams

Hailey Williams is a freelance writer and editor from Los Angeles, California. She has a particular interest in culture, lifestyle, health, and women's interest reporting, and her work has been published in magazines including TV Week and Sugar. She graduated from the University of Sydney.

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