How to Find Airline Tickets

Finding airfare to anywhere in the world has become as easy as a few clicks of the mouse. However, an old-fashioned phone call to a travel agent or airline can be just as productive.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Internet access Phone Credit Card Passport (if traveling abroad) Visa (depending on country of origin and length of stay abroad)
Internet access
Phone
Credit Card
Passport (if traveling abroad)
Visa (depending on country of origin and length of stay abroad)

Step 1

Look online and compare airfare based on your dates of travel from websites like Orbitz, Fare Compare or STA Travel. Also check airline websites, which sometimes have excellent deals that can only be booked directly through their site. Sites like Travel Zoo list the latest and best deals, sales and promotion on all destinations.

Step 2

Submit your passenger details and then your payment information if you are happy with one of the listed fares. Be sure to print your confirmation page and/or email, as this is proof of your e-ticket. Paper tickets cost extra and will not be delivered to you unless you specifically request this option.

Step 3

Call a local travel agent that specializes in your destination if you prefer to speak to someone over the phone. Search online for travel agencies that are open to dealing with customers over the phone. You can always call an airline or airfare search engine like Orbitz and book a flight over the phone, but you will likely be charged a booking fee for this method. Email is also an option for contacting most travel agents.

Step 4

Visit a local travel agency if you prefer to speak to someone in person. If they cannot help you, they can recommend other resources.

Tips & Warnings

If you qualify, contact travel agencies that deal with student, youth or senior travelers for special discounts. If you are traveling in a large group, mention this when you speak to the agent. The more flexible you are with your travel dates, and if you can travel midweek and not during a peak travel season (like summer or the winter holidays), the more likely you are to find cheaper airfare.

If you qualify, contact travel agencies that deal with student, youth or senior travelers for special discounts. If you are traveling in a large group, mention this when you speak to the agent.

The more flexible you are with your travel dates, and if you can travel midweek and not during a peak travel season (like summer or the winter holidays), the more likely you are to find cheaper airfare.

On most flights within the U.S., you now have to pay extra for each checked bag. Read the baggage allowance policy of your airline for exact fees.

Resources

Fare Compare

Article Written By Suchi Rudra

Suchi Rudra has a degree in journalism and has been working as a writer for more than five years. She has been published in EuropeUpClose.com, "Transitions Abroad" and "Green Business Quarterly," among other publications.

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