At one point in time, options for booking a flight were very limited.  Calling the airline or contacting a travel agent, were about the only choices you had.  With today’s Internet, however, travelers have many alternatives-options that can save money. Yet, even with taking into consideration the proffered savings and ease of use the Internet provides, keep a few booking tips in mind. 

Traveling from point A to point B is simple, and because of that, booking your flight on the Internet is advisable.  In addition, it will probably save you money.  There are times, however, when the Internet is not your best bet.  Just because it’s a no-frills airline, doesn’t mean it’s right for you, and it definitely doesn’t mean it’s cheaper.  A piece of good advice is to do a little homework beforehand.  If you want to be a shrewd shopper, you need to educate yourself and know all the facts.  

Find out how much your flight costs through the major airlines first, then you can compare prices more effectively.  Do a little online searching to find the best deal, but also be discriminating.  You may find a very inexpensive fare, but it’s not uncommon for those tickets to be non-refundable.  Not only that, but things have a way of changing. Will there be a pricey charge for altering your flight plans? What about using mileage accrual, or flying standbys?  Can you to upgrade if you want to?  Make sure you know the specifics before you book that low-priced fare.  Reading stipulations and conditions in advance can make a big difference. 

Planning your flight ahead is always the best option.  Twenty-one days advance on a ticket purchase, usually means you get a lower fare.  Do not be hesitant about making use of the comparative-shopping engines offered over the Internet.  They allow you to play around with arrival and departure times, as well as flight times.  That means you can shop and compare, and then set up the most cost-effective flight plan.

It will help if you can be flexible with your travel plans.  If possible, arrange to stay at least one Saturday. Itineraries that include a Saturday night stay can usually ensure a lower fare.   Researching nearby airports could prove profitable, as well. Sometimes, a thirty-minute drive from the airport to your destination will save you a bundle on the cost of your ticket. 

Flexibility on the time of year is something to consider, as well.  Traveling during the off-season helps you avoid peak periods and higher rates.  Even booking the shoulder season, in the middle of peak and low times, is generally preferable.  Watch which days you book your flight on, too.  If you can steer clear of flying on Mondays and Fridays, you avoid the peak business days.  Passing up weekends helps, as well.  One last bit of advice, don’t be afraid to book those ‘inconvenient’ times.  Planning makes a difference, as does flexibility, if you’re looking to save money.

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