Photo Credit: Darren Hester
- Be Flexible, If possible, be flexible when planning your trip. Bargains may present themselves if you have flexibility with travel dates and times, carrier choices, departure and destination airports.
- Try the Little Guy. You may want to fly aboard smaller, independent airlines. You may find lower available fares, without compromising safety or traveling comfort.
- Watch Those Sales! Check prices carefully. Sale prices may not always be the lowest price available, as you may be able to find a lower price on a ‘non-sale’ ticket from another airline.
- Get a second opinion. Check prices on flights from more than one airport. The willingness to drive a few extra miles may translate into significant airfare savings.
- Fees and Taxes. Make sure that your price quotes include all taxes and fees. Such additions can accumulate into charges of a $100 or more. Also check extra luggage and overweight baggage charges.
- Travel Off-Peak. Cut airfare costs by traveling on off-peak days such as Saturday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
- Fly Off Hours. Traveling at off-hours may save you money. The less-filled 6 a.m. flight can be a bargain.
- Shop Early. Buy your tickets in advance.
- Members Only. Airline frequent-flier programs can save you money or earn you upgrades and other travel perks.
- Rewards. Use an airline-reward credit card to make monthly purchases. Cash them in for ticket upgrades and free travel.
