Flying Cheap


© Genesis Davies

Recently my sister and I flew from Seattle to Orlando for only $219. All it took was a little time spent online, researching airfares. I spent a couple days searching, but I've compiled the best websites here for you so you will be able to do it in minutes.
Never fly regular fare, if you can possibly help it. If you can go with a flexible date, you are more likely to get a lower fare. Also, keep an eye out for limited time only specials that airlines frequently hold. Instead of looking on every airline's site, just go to http://www.webflyer.com/deals/ for an overview of specials. Check the site often as new ones are constantly coming up.
You may want to consider becoming a courier, where you travel with only carry-on luggage and your luggage allotment is used for a courier association. This results in reduced or even free fares. For some courier websites, check out http://www.of-the-world.com/Cheaptrips/d... http://www.aircourier.org, http://www.courier.org. Keep in mind that there is usually a sign-up fee, but it is easily recouped by the incredible savings. The other day, I saw a deal where you could fly from the US to Rome for $100! So, the fee is worth it.
Another great option, if you are flexible, is an auction site. You bid for airline tickets and can get amazing discounts. Check out http://www.priceline.com and http://www.skyauction.com.
As a student, you can fly for lower fares as well. You can also fly student standby, a considerably cheaper option, although it is often unavailable outside the US. If you hold a valid student card, you could be eligible for several discounts. Here are some websites specifically for students travelling. http://www.sta-travel.com, http://www.ciee.org, http://www.travelcuts.com, http://www.acotra.com.
Airlines have a tendency to overbook, counting on several passengers not to show up. On occasion, everyone does show up and there isn't enough room on the flight. In these instances, the airline will ask for volunteers to be 'bumped'. This means they will put you on a later flight. If the flight isn't until the next day, the airline will put you up for the night in a hotel. These are worth volunteering for because you also get compensation, usually in the form of a ticket that is good for a year. Definitely worth a few hours of waiting if you can afford it!
The key to flying cheap is flexibility. When you check out a travel website like http://www.expedia.com or http://www.travelocity.com, you will find you get better rates when you tick the 'flexible dates' option. Be willing to stay a few days longer or leave a couple days earlier and you will find yourself saving possibly hundreds of dollars.

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Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: View all related messages

3.   Jun 18, 2001 8:46 AM
I saw this, and I said, "This is definatly for me!" I travel a lot, and I'm young. I'm always looking for good deals, and suggestions and ideas! I'm the type that would rather sleep in my car than spe ...

-- posted by QuartzNH


2.   Jun 15, 2001 6:22 PM
Hello,

I enjoyed reading your article and look forward to more! I got a lot of info from it, and it will really help me a lot!

Also, welcome to Suite101!

Take care.
Jasmin Lohmann ...


-- posted by philippines


1.   Jun 15, 2001 3:14 AM
What a great first article! Welcome to Suite101.com -- I look forward to reading more!

-- posted by bartonz





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