Travel plans can become expensive, so it’s important to find savings wherever you can. Discount airfare is extremely desirable since it’s not readily available or easy to obtain – especially if your travel plans are specific.
It’s not impossible to find cheap plane tickets, however. Here are a few things you can do to get a good deal.
Set price alerts
There are apps you can install that will alert you whenever airfare goes under a specified price. All you have to do is enter the departure city, destination, and dates. Since prices go up and down all the time in the airline industry, you never know when it might go down to something you can afford. It’s important to receive alerts so you won’t miss out.
Try flexibility whenever and wherever you can
Once again, it’s harder to find discount airfare when your plans are specific. If you must absolutely be in a particular city at a specific time, at least try to be flexible with the departure city or destination airport. You really might find a cheaper plane ticket if you fly to an alternative airport and take a bus or rental car to your destination. Another option is maybe see if it will be cheaper to fly a day early and just stay at a budget hotel.
Consider flying out bright and early
Those red eye flights are often less costly due to their inconvenience. Nobody wants to fly on a plane at 4 AM. If you don’t mind the inconvenience, you will find a better chance of saving.
Don’t forget about additional fees
The thing about discount airfare is that you might think you are getting a good deal, but then when you get on board you find out that your beverages and snacks aren’t free. Even water or juice will cost money. Or perhaps you have to pay extra just to bring one carry-on bag, when other airlines don’t charge at all.
Book your flight 7 weeks in advance
According to data collected from the Airlines Reporting Corporation, passengers pay nearly 10% below the average fare if they purchase around 50 days prior to their flight. This isn’t always the case, but it does work out on average.
Consider combing airfare with a hotel stay
Sometimes the airlines and hotel industry work together to bring bundled discounts or vacation packages. You might be required to stay at a particular hotel for a minimum number of nights, but there are usually a variety of options available. You’ll surely be able to find one that will work with your plans.
Keep these guidelines in mind when searching for discount airfare, and you should have some luck.
At Travelocity, you’ll find all of the travel tips and resources you need for obtaining discount airfare. It’s easy to compare plane ticket prices and hotel rates. No matter where you need to go, you can get great deals with Travelocity coupons.