How to Find the Best Air Fares

Are you planning a camping trip to the Grand Canyon or a hiking trip along the Appalachian trails, but want to save money on airfare? Take these steps to ensure the cheapest fare possible.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Alternate between airport departure and arrival cities. For example, when traveling to Los Angeles, search for flights to Burbank, Santa Ana and Ontario instead of just Los Angeles International Airport. Find an airport city that yields the cheapest airfare. Choose an airport from which you can easily travel with a driver, taxi, public transportation or other mode on the day of your trip.

Step 2

Purchase your ticket at least 14 days in advance of travel and always purchase round-trip tickets when possible.

Step 3

Take last-minute deals if your travel plans are flexible. Online travel sites like Orbitz and Travelocity frequently offer last-minute deals. Check these and other travel service websites daily as discounts change routinely.

Step 4

Use online travel agents that guarantee the "lowest price possible." Many airlines also have this guarantee as long as the price change is related to your flight and complete itinerary schedule. Contact the airline with the reduced price and request a voucher for future airfares or ask to be compensated per the airline's terms.

Step 5

Add the highest number of allowed changeovers and stops. Unlike direct, or nonstop, flights, flights with multiple stops are generally priced more cheaply than their counterpart.

Step 6

Contact a consolidator, also known as a wholesaler. Consolidators sell airline tickets at reduced rates because they have been purchased in bulk. Contact a local consolidator or search online using the search terms like "consolidator" or "consolidated airline tickets."

Tips & Warnings

Be flexible and open up your travel dates to obtain the cheapest flight possible.

Always read the fine print before purchasing a low-cost airfare online or with a travel agent.

Article Written By Charlie Gaston

Charlie Gaston has written numerous instructional articles on topics ranging from business to communications and estate planning. Gaston holds a bachelor's degree in international business and a master's degree in communications. She is fluent in Spanish and has extensive travel experience.

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