8 Ways to Save Your Money Buying Airline Tickets

April 24, 2008 By Tisha Kulak

Higher gas prices coupled with the higher price of everything else has lead to astronomically priced airline ticket. However, there are still ways to save cash and find a deal.

1. When you are ready to purchase a ticket, shop online. Start first by comparing ticket prices of competing sellers before selecting a fare.

2. Find the lowest prices through other sources but before you buy, check out the airline’s website directly. Often the airlines offer additional discounts on tickets purchased online. Plus, you will save more money by not having to pay a booking fee for the tickets.

3. While in some instances time flexibility is not an option but for the times when you can travel without a tight schedule, you can often find the best bargains. Be willing to fly out or arrive in more than one airport on a time and date that affords the best deal. Off-peak hours and days are usually the best times to get a reduced ticket rate.

4. Be sure to double check taxes and fees when booking a flight. Sometimes advertisement prices do not factor in the additional cost of taxes and other fees.

5. Shop early to save money. Buying tickets in advance often gets airline fares at a lower rate than closer to the flight date.

6. Enroll in online airline websites that send out email alerts to keep you posted on airline deals and cheap tickets.

7. Research frequent flier programs available through the airlines that allow you to earn free tickets for each time you travel.

8. Utilize credit cards that offer reward programs directly related to travel. For each eligible purchase, the credit card can earn free points toward airline tickets, upgrades, and even potentially free travel. Make sure you can pay your balance off in full each month to protect your credit and help you in earning points faster.

Many consumers may automatically assume that all traveling by air is no longer affordable before even doing the research. There are many ways to save with a little time and some online investigation to compare prices. Also, don’t forget to compare the other costs associated with travel flexibility. For instance, flying into an airport that may not be as convenient as the more expensive alternative, may also require additional costs in car rentals and other expenses that should be factored in for an accurate comparison.

Posted in budgeting, personal finance perspectives, saving money, travel