Tips for Cheap Air Travel

When considering how to travel, many turn to air travel as the easiest and least time-consuming method. Although driving can be a fun way to see the sites, it can be difficult to drive long distances with young children or elderly individuals who cannot sit for long periods. However, some are put off from air travel because of the expense of the flight and of checking bags. Following a few simple tips can help individuals and families find budget-friendly flights no matter what time of year it is.

First, potential flyers can aim to plan for their business and leisure flights. Studies show that the cheapest domestic flights are purchased at least 30 days and up to a few months ahead of time; international flights should be purchased with even more advance notice and are cheapest when purchased up to six months in advance. Some airlines or travel aggregates will refund the difference if flights purchased far enough in advance decrease in price before the trip date.

On the other hand, it can be possible to find great deals by shopping at the last minute. This is best for people who are not looking for specific flight times or even certain destinations. These flights are perfect for last minute weekend getaways and are typically deeply discounted as airlines are trying to fill up any remaining seats.

Third, it is often cheapest to book flights through a one-stop cheap flights ticket source or aggregate. It is always best to shop around to find the best price rather than booking the first flight found. Ticket aggregates have very good prices because airlines will sell off some of their seats to them in an effort to book every seat. Starting at these sites before booking will also help an individual find out which airline is offering the cheapest flights and which ones have the best dates and times.

Another hint is to try surrounding airports for the best prices. Although those living in rural areas may only have one airport from which to choose or may have to drive an hour or two just to reach the nearest airport, those who live in large cities often have at least two airports nearby. Sometimes both airports will offer flights from the same carriers; other times, some airlines will be at the one airport and the rest of the airlines will be at the other. For example, while the Louis Armstrong New Orleans Airport is the major area airport, other nearby options to check include Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport and Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport.

Finally, the day of the week and the day of the year may have some bearing on airline prices. In general, the cheapest days to fly are Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. In addition, the best day to book a flight for the deepest discount is Tuesday. Flying on a holiday rather than a day or two before or after can shave a large percentage off a flight as well.

The best bet for finding cheap flights is shopping around, choosing flexible dates and searching nearby airports. Shopping through a ticket aggregate is a smart idea as well. Putting in that extra bit of effort can really save a family big on their next trip.